We had a fantastic and super inspiring afternoon last week at Dentsu Sweden, where our network group CMO goes TECH invited two true stars to share their best tips and sharp case studies. Here, the leader of the network, Gül Heper-Jämterud, share her thoughts and findings from the event. 

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As the moderator of our recent event, I had the privilege of gathering invaluable insights from industry leaders on the future of marketing and brand engagement. It was inspiring to see such passion and innovation in the room. Here are some key takeaways that really resonated with me:

We sell feelings, not products: Paul Collins, Global Creative Director at Bang & Olufsen

Paul Collins stressed the significance of in-house creativity, arguing that ”opinions are the worst thing for creativity.” He emphasised the importance of trusting your team to drive the creative process, noting that consumers don’t just buy products; they invest in brands that enhance their lifestyles, especially in the luxury sector. A striking insight from Collins was that if everyone is in love with the creative idea, it might be too safe—he called it ”vanilla.”

He made a compelling case for carving out a distinct space in the market, asserting that ”we sell feelings, not products.” This perspective shifts our focus from mere transactions to the emotional connections that brands can foster.

Collins shared his strategic approach: “We always start with an idea, then backtrack it to a channel.” He acknowledged that while traditional advertising may not resonate with everyone, people genuinely love experiences. This should be a primary lens when developing marketing efforts.

Additionally, he emphasized the importance of leveraging insights to understand and engage your target audience, particularly Gen Z. By tapping into their existing behaviors, brands can generate relevant ideas that resonate. This focus on authenticity is vital for forging meaningful connections with younger audiences.

A striking insight from Collins was that if everyone is in love with the creative idea, it might be too safe.”

B2B marketing doesn’t have to be dull: Corinne Aaron, CMO of Einride

Corinne Aaron emphasized the importance of ”Human-to-Human” marketing, highlighting the need to make even B2B freight relatable. She pointed out that 53% of B2B buyers seek product information through social media and expect a B2C-like experience. Her mantra is to simplify complex ideas, stressing that engagement is ultimately about connecting with people.

Demonstrating Realness

A key theme in Aaron’s talk was the importance of showing customers what’s possible today. By making electric and autonomous vehicles visible in action, brands can inspire desire and curiosity. Manifesting current and future technologies is essential to driving engagement.

Investing in Human-Centric B2B Marketing

In an era overwhelmed by content, standing out demands creativity and storytelling. B2B marketing doesn’t have to be dull; nurturing a brand with passion is as vital as it is for the coolest tech brands.

Leading Through Insight-Driven Innovation

Finally, the conversation turned to thought leadership, which must be anchored in insights. Challenging the status quo with radical ideas while educating others about technology and the future is key. Simplifying complex messages without sacrificing substance is crucial for effective communication.

These insights not only challenge conventional marketing practices but also offer a roadmap for fostering deeper connections with audiences. As we move forward, embracing these principles will be vital for brands aiming to engage effectively in an ever-evolving landscape.

53% of B2B buyers seek product information through social media and expect a B2C-like experience

A heartfelt thank you to Dentsu for hosting this event, to Paul Collins and Corinne Aaron for their inspiring contributions, and to Marknadsföreningen for bringing us all together. Let’s continue to push boundaries and elevate the marketing conversation!

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Text: Gül Heper-Jämterud
Photos below: Per Almegård