No Bullshit Strategy

Morning!
Since this week, I’ve started brushing my teeth while standing on one leg with my eyes closed. Apparently, it’s all about activating my brain—challenging my balance engages my brain and helps improve coordination and focus (or so people tell me). And because I’m always up for a challenge, well... here I am, brushing my teeth one-legged and eyes closed. How was your week?

➡️ Thaaaank Youuuuu!

First of all, a big thank you to those who filled out my survey on the brand accelerator program, I've already received some great insights! For anyone who didn’t manage to complete the (super quick) 2-minute questionnaire, I totally get it. Life is busy, you had every intention to fill it out, then got distracted, and—well, it happens! So, just for you, I’m sending it again here. It would mean the world to me if you could take a moment to share your thoughts. Please please prrreeeety please?

My key takeaway so far? There’s a real need for high-quality coaching and a clear, step-by-step plan to build stronger brand recognition. And luckily, that’s exactly where my passion and talent lie. I’m already writing up the program. Really excited for this one!

Marketing ➡️ is repetition

As I’m writing the Accelerator Program, I keep thinking, “I’ve said this a hundred times already!” I’m sure you have this feeling too when talking about your drive, your story, your brand. But over the years, I’ve learned the importance of repeating your message. Keep hammering on that same nail, even when it feels like you’ve said it a hundred times already -because that's when it finally starts to stick. When you keep reinforcing the same message, it becomes memorable.

Communication ➡️ is everywhere

And yes, I will repeat myself once again: Find the soul of your brand, and make sure your message is consistent across every channel. Because here’s the thing: good communication leads to strong leadership, better sales, employer branding, and so much more.

This week, I passionately shared my story (yet again) with Thomas Klein this week, and he summed it up perfectly: “Ingrid, you need to say it like this: 70% of a company’s communication doesn’t come from the communications department.” And that’s exactly what I’ve been trying to convey, just in one clear sentence!! So thank you, Thomas!

A good example was this email I received form Coolblue this week.

Coolblue’s message, “everything for a smile,” really comes through here—not because the email is particularly funny or humorous, but because it genuinely makes my life easier. The mail is thoughtful, well-timed, and actually useful.

It is clear that Coolblue understands their customers’ needs, anticipates them, and takes a proactive approach to solving a pain point—all while staying true to their brand promise. That’s what makes this mail so smart: it builds trust and delivers value without ever feeling like a sales pitch. And that’s what makes the brand experience truly memorable, I think!

➡️ Brandlove : Life is not an IKEA Catalogue

Okay, smart emails are cool, but that doesn’t mean I don't enjoy a good advertisement now and then. Just take a look at this Ikea campaign—it’s another example of truly authentic storytelling. Because an interior is meant to be lived in, right? Ikea nails it every time; it’s incredible how spot-on they are. And yes, they really get it: life is not an Ikea catalogue. Watch this!

➡️ Event : TEDXBrussels

Completely off topic, but I just recently discovered it myself (and I’m always too late to buy tickets every year): TEDx Brussels is coming up soon! This week, I met the man behind the organization, who, with a team of volunteers, puts together the entire event. And let me tell you, the list of speakers looks fantastic. I’m already crying because I can’t make it, but you should go. Don’t say I didn’t tell you!

Isn’t it just funny that I’ve been going on about how great the book Talk Like TED is for the past two weeks, and then I suddenly bump into the organizer of the Brussels edition? Universe, you are so full of surprises!

➡️ A little reminder for life choices

➡️ To read: No Bullshit Strategy

By now, you’ve probably figured out that I devour books at speed. That's why I mainly read e-books. Either they get dismissed right away, or I get hooked and want them in print. So this week, I made one of my big orders with some of my favorite books from the past few months, which I plan to do a deep dive into again. But since I was ordering anyway, and because I’m a fan of Alex Smith on LinkedIn, I also ordered his book No Bullshit Strategy. A title that already makes me happy. The book itself, however, is tiny, and honestly, I felt a bit disappointed when I opened the package. But hey, ‘no bullshit’ probably means it’s super to the point. 🤣 I’ll read it this week, and next week… full report!

See ya!

xIngrid