5 Outside-the-Box Marketing Jobs
July 16, 2010
The Ambassador of Buzz: Jonathan Kay, Grasshopper
“I would say my title helps me remember that I really am a company ambassador, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.”
While the Ambassador of Buzz might not get invited to many fancy state dinners, the title definitely cuts straight to the heart of the most vital necessity for any social marketer: buzz! The fact that Kay is an ambassador constantly reminds him that he is representing his company, and bringing it out into the world, 24/7.
(A tip for job-hunters out there — Kay is now hiring for an “Apprentice of Buzz.”)
iMedia: How did the term Ambassador of Buzz come about at your company?
Jonathan Kay: The funny part about the title is that I came in one day during my first week and had an email from our CEO (which is scary enough in your first week) saying… “You are now officially the Ambassador of Buzz.” Ha! I would later learn that the term came from this idea that the best employees are those that are “company ambassadors.” Being that they wanted me to lead and start a buzz function for them… the link between company ambassador and ambassador of buzz was a pretty logical connection!
iMedia: So what exactly does an Ambassador of Buzz do? How do you define “Buzz”?
Kay: Our buzz department at Grasshopper Group is tasked with the goal of creating word of mouth (buzz) about our company in any and every way possible. What is so great about our buzz function (and why I love my job so much), is that we accomplish our goal by simply using good old fashion relationship building mixed with a good deal of social networking.
For me buzz equals word of mouth. I would imagine it means something different to everyone. However, a true success story to me is: Jane Smith goes to a local networking event (organized by the Grasshopper Group buzz team), where she gets to meet tons of cool entrepreneurs, learn some good strategies for her business, and have a free drink. She goes home and tells her roommate/colleague about the event. Did we sell our service that night? Nope. But we established ourselves as a personable and knowledgeable expert on entrepreneurship. So you better believe if Jane (or her roommate) ever need an entrepreneurial tool or resource, they will know where to go!
iMedia: How does your job title affect the way you perceive your job, and how do your clients/customers view it?
Kay: I think the fact that I am an ambassador forces me to realize the influence I have both internally and externally. On some level, when I am on the phone talking to people, and sharing a beer with someone at a local event, I am representing all of Grasshopper Group. So I would say my title helps me remember that I really am a company ambassador, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
I think the job title has a similar effect externally with clients and customers. First and foremost it lets them know that I am a fun, passionate person who cares about their company and their job. Which is always important. Second, I think (I hope) it gives them the impression that I can make connections for them both internally or externally.
iMedia: Any tips out there for people seeking to be the “Apprentice of Buzz”?
Kay: The most important tip I could give to anyone trying to get involved in a “buzz related” job is to be passionate. It’s important to not only like what you do, but to believe in it as well. And the craziest part is that people who love their jobs are actually better at what they do because of it. Just remember, people like doing business with people they like. So if people trust and like you, they will want to do business with you.
Madhuri Shekar
July 15, 2010
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