Do you play Chess? They say, the game is basically decided with the entry, ie with the first moves. The same happens in people relationships and businesses: Every move counts, know your counterpart, stick to the strategy and think long-term. And: Always understand what is going on and take advantage of every opportunity.

We once challenged a bunch of really senior top-managers – most of them knew chess and were playing regularly. They were confronted with some famous matches where one of the players was going down in just three more steps. None of them could realize any of the glorious moves, nor did they win the matches in only three moves. Sometimes the aspirated winning party finally lost the game. On that note, the same team actually failed to redesign their business strategy and was held accountable for a disastrous company development later on.

Do you believe in coincidence? We are sure, everything comes as a result of our actions. We look at companies with a different perspective and we listen to you very carefully. Like in chess, the earlier the better the outcome usually will be. Together we can assess strategic moves, think about alternatives and offer lots of inspiration to develop plans that work. And we will always ask for your feedback and react immediately.

For customers (humans!), nothing is neutral. There are a million of ways to build a first impression of a business, experience the people in action and really feel their behavior. Often, people walk away from a potential partner within the first moments. Let’s address it!

Marketing and Brand Management always starts with internal processes, behavioral adjustments, fully understanding the customer journey and the overarching challenge to say NO. One has to clearly define a brand, its distinction, the boundaries and the purpose. Brands can grow successfully when the market truly trusts them. We have seen a lot and tried so many things. Now we happily feel responsible to share our experience with you.

The most important aspects of marketing are still the same: People and businesses alike make decisions based on trust, orientation and a meaning. The relevance of storytelling and value adding statements is still growing. At Capo d’Ena we call this the “so what”.

Let’s face it: Marketing and Brand Management isn’t just a topic, we Marketeers have to debate. It is a question of organization and ownership – and a very strategic decision for each business how to install marketing. There are many great marketing teams out there, but they report to Sales, listen too much to their agencies and do not always define strategies and goals that matter. Ignorance is often the cause for failure.

Let’s talk about your ideas! And let’s go for relevance, collaboration, leadership, innovation, recognition and humility!