Here's how you can equip executives in advertising with essential skills and knowledge.

Data Den Masters: Deep-dive into data training. They need to understand what clicks and why. Future Focus: Keep them updated on the latest advertising trends and technologies. VR ads anyone? Leadership Lab: Hone their leadership skills to guide and inspire their creative teams. Business Buddies: Bridge the gap between creative vision and business goals. Make them understand both sides. Client Champions: Give them client communication and negotiation skills. They gotta impress and win deals! By focusing on data, future trends, leadership, and client know-how, you'll keep your advertising execs at the top of their game.

First, ensure they understand clients' objectives, goals, targets, profiles, and needs to align strategies effectively. Provide training on the latest advertising trends and technologies. Encourage analytical skills to measure campaign success and make data-driven decisions. Facilitate regular communication and feedback loops with clients to meet their needs consistently. Foster adaptability to adjust strategies based on evolving client needs and market trends. Remember, communication is a constantly evolving two-way understanding, fostering longer-lasting relationships. This approach prepares executives to deliver effective, client-focused advertising solutions.

Teach them to analyse data and determine what resonates with audiences by becoming Data Den Masters. Focus on the Future: Keep them informed about emerging ad formats and technologies, such as AR and VR. Creative Champions: Support innovative concepts and daring, attention-grabbing advertising. Develop your team-building, negotiating, and communication abilities in the leadership lab. customer Whisperers: Assist in comprehending and converting customer needs into effective tactics.

If they apply for the position and you hire them, they should already have skills of strategic thinking and effective communication talents for solving problems associated with their job assignments. If not, you hired the wrong person.

To set yourself apart in the ubiquitous sea of Google/Meta partners, have your team become certified in both platforms. Even if they aren't directly managing campaigns, it equips them with a richer understanding of how they can leverage it to exceed their client's goals. It's also acts as a valuable differentiator when a client is deciding between you or the competition.

Ad Exec's shouldn't roll out a campaign and then vanish. Only returning when a contract is up for renewal. A good ad exec will continuously check-in on campaign performance and report the findings (good or bad) back to their client. The data shows ways to optimize their campaign and deliver them peak performance— obviously this will impact your retention rates too. Don't forget to inspect the data to see if there are any additional channels your client could incorporate to accelerate their growth!

Foster innovation and creativity within your team. Encourage brainstorming sessions and support unique ideas that can set your brand apart.

Whether you're working internally or embedded into a client's marketing team— go in with a creative mindset. If the team is just copy-pasting strategy Q after Q, chances are they're missing out on a unique approaches that could separate and elevate their brand above the competition. Marketing & advertising is one of those unique fields where there is no right answer. Everything is abstract. And, you can't solve an abstract problem with concrete answers. Creativity is rewarded. Be that change agent and capitalize on the potential.

I have experienced first hand the dividends of team work. Just last week, my Copywriting mentee got set for her first Copywriting project. She told me she was overwhelmed so I had to encourage her by being the team she needed. It's less than 24hrs but the results have been massive. This made her extremely happy and her commitment heightened in a flash. While you're on your advertising tasks, get yourself a team that's encouraged to work together. A team that's committed to achieving results together and a team that's ready to stand out amidst challenges.

According to recent data, over 60% of executives in the region identify digital transformation and data analytics as top priorities. For instance, companies like Dentsu Inc. have implemented comprehensive training programs focusing on digital marketing strategies and AI-driven insights. This approach not only enhances campaign effectiveness but also empowers executives to leverage emerging technologies effectively. Real-life case studies from companies such as WPP in India showcase how tailored leadership programs have resulted in increased client satisfaction and market share.