MANDY GUI (SOCIAL MEDIA BRAND MANAGER AT DUELSTONE): "MENTORSHIP PROVIDES ME WITH PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SPIRITUAL STRENGTH"
In this interview, Mandy provides a glimpse into her marketing journey, shedding light on her experiences, hurdles, and the pivotal role of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the marketing industry. Mandy also speaks on the vital significance of mentorship and a strong support system for achieving professional success.
Finally, she reflects on what drew her to the Women in Digital Marketing and Design Network, speaking about the strong sense of community and shared experiences among female professionals in the field, underscoring the strength of collaboration and mutual assistance.
WIDD Network: What challenges did you face landing a job in marketing?
Mandy: First, the key challenge is the cultural difference between two entirely different markets, which results in two distinct target audiences when I undertake marketing projects. There are variations in customer preferences, channels, and consumer habits. For instance, in China, the audience tends to receive all information and promotions via social media, but in the UK, email marketing is one of the most cost-efficient and effective way to maintain relationships with the audience. However, in China, people only use email for work purposes. The cultural differences can also lead to misunderstandings in communication with my local colleagues in the workplace. For example, in China, it's normal to message colleagues after work to discuss work-related matters, but in the UK, it's considered impolite to bother people with work-related issues over the weekend. Therefore, I'm learning and doing my best to adapt to the different workplace cultures.
WIDD Network: Why is Diversity, equity, and inclusion important in the industry?
Mandy: First of all, digitalisation has led to the rapid blending of global information, economies, and cultures. People can easily and comprehensively view the world. The essence of the world is diversity, encompassing different cultures, values, and lifestyles. Therefore, the digital age is an era of observing and understanding the world at a broader level. It's a necessary path for human technological and civilizational development, meeting the demands of the ages. This, of course, is my personal perspective. Secondly, in the digital era, people are recieved with information daily, leading to constant changes in their perceptions, needs, and preferences. Therefore, the digital marketing industry has developed on the basis of diversity, equality, and inclusivity, which is a key part of its attraction and its true colour.
WIDD Network: How did mentorship and mixing with the right crowd help you career wise?
Mandy: Mentorship and the encouragement of the right crowd definitely give me spiritual power and practical support. I have to say both aspects are vital for a marketer like me from a different country. Firstly, mentorship provides me with psychological and spiritual strength. As a foreigner in an unfamiliar environment, survival and growth can be challenging, but mentorship has given me confidence. Secondly, it's also a very practical approach. We can access a lot of valuable information, networks, and approaches that can help us take action. That's why I appreciate it.
WIDD Network: What attracted you to the Women In Digital Marketing and design network?
Mandy: I genuinely love the concept and the tangible benefits it offers to women. As women, we all understand and empathise with our strengths and challenges. We can relate to each other and provide mutual support. "Girls always help girls" doesn't create gender divisions but rather emphasises our commonalities and empathy. Why not share and support each other? Moreover, I find the Women in Digital Marketing and Design Network to be highly diverse. I feel understood and accepted, and I can contribute as well as learn. It's the most sustainable circle, and I'm grateful for it, hoping it continues to thrive.
Mandy is currently a Social Media Brand Manager at Duelstone.
Connect with Mandy on LinkedIn
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