How to use crowdsourcing and harness the power of your fans. Donald Thompson shows how brands can engage their loyal followers and involve them in company campaigns.
As CEO of the technology company I-Cubed, Donald Thompson was given the reigns at age 36 he dramatically grew the organization until it was acquired by the global technology enterprise, KPIT in 2014. Currently, Donald is the CEO for Creative Allies, an integrated marketing firm that focuses on helping celebrity and consumer brands execute marketing campaigns and engage customers.
Donald also serves on the Board of Directors for iCiDIGITAL, a spin-off business from I-Cubed, where he groomed his successor from technologist to President.
Donald was appointed to the North Carolina Board of Science, Technology and innovation, is an emeritus member of the strategic advisory board for North Carolina State University‘s Computer Science Department, and is Executive Chairman for Walk West. With a focus on accelerating North Carolina’s next generation of technology companies and entrepreneurs, Donald also is an advisor and investor to several startups and successful firms.
A former college athlete, Donald has stayed involved in sports as a franchise owner for the Navi Mumbai Sabers of the Elite Football League of India and the High Country Grizzlies of the Arena Developmental League. Donald is currently authoring his first book, Underestimated: A CEO’s Unlikely Path to Success. Learn more at donaldthompson.com
Icebreaker
Donald used to play football at East Carolina University.
Think Like A Journalist Quote
The bigger fan base you have, the more companies will be attracted to you. And having a following, you can be so much more involved being a representative with the brand you’re working with. –Gigi Hadid
Success Quote or Tip
The voice of many allows you to [5:40]
Career Highlight
Building the community for Creative Allies. He also says being named the CEO of a past company by one of his mentors was an extremely satisfying and proud moment.
When It Didn’t Work
Donald struggled with learning to temper his attitude because of his sports background. Hear what he learned and how his sports background actually helped him.
Top Tips Crowdsourcing: Harnessing the Power of Your Fans
- Quality of content matters…[13:14] people are becoming numb.
- The tools you use matter. Make it easy for people to engage with you.
- Frequency: all different.
- Biggest mistake not creating a true value proposition.
What is one piece of technology, video or multimedia equipment, or app that you just can’t live without?
Podcast equipment.
One book, documentary, blog, podcast, or Internet Channel to watch?
Get a free audio book when you try Audible free for 30 days: www.audibletrial.com/TBJApodcast
OR to get a physical copy of the book…click the book title.
It’s an Amazon affiliate link. It won’t cost you more but it will send me a few coins to keep on building our crazy good content here. ?
Contact
Twitter @CreativeAllies
Mentioned In This Episode
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