Building a Stronger Brand from the Inside Out: Part One 

employee team working together at a table over computers

Small and mid-size businesses are facing growing challenges in hiring and retaining top talent. With a tight labor market and rising employee expectations, building a strong brand from the inside out has never been more important.

At Green Apple Strategy, we believe that a company’s internal culture is directly tied to its external brand. We’ve had the privilege of working with businesses in a variety of industries—both B2B and B2C—on how they can align their marketing and HR efforts to enhance employee engagement and retention. In this blog post, we’ll explore how employee recognition and recruitment marketing can strengthen a company’s internal culture and external brand.

Employee Recruitment and Retention: Strategies for Lasting Success

1. Get Creative with Recruitment—Think Beyond the Traditional Talent Pool

The future of recruitment calls for looking beyond typical candidates. Recent college graduates, career changers, and even passive candidates are valuable additions if approached with the right message. Think about ways you might partner with universities, host networking events, or use social media platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram to engage younger talent.

Client Example: We recently helped Charter Construction enhance recruitment efforts by launching an internship and mentorship program to attract top talent from local universities. We’re also exploring co-op opportunities to provide students with hands-on experience, opening a new pipeline of future employees excited about careers in construction.

2. Celebrate Company Culture and Create ‘Stickiness’ with Employees

Employees need a reason to stay—and company culture is often that reason. Companies with a robust culture have up to 72% higher employee engagement than those whose cultures are misaligned or need improvement.

It’s important to celebrate your culture by creating experiences that build community, like wellness programs, team retreats, or peer-recognition platforms. A workplace where employees feel valued and engaged is more likely to retain current employees and attract others.

Client Example: Earlier this year, we partnered with First Acceptance Insurance Company to develop the #FAICForward campaign, a nationwide initiative that highlights employees who embody company values. This campaign not only reinforces FAIC’s unique culture but also strengthens employee engagement by celebrating everyday contributions.

3. Recognize Employees in Meaningful Ways

Recognition goes far beyond handing out certificates or offering a free lunch. Employees want to feel seen and appreciated in ways that align with their values. 

A Gallup study found that recognition programs are one of the key drivers of employee engagement, but only 23% of workers say their company does it well. To create an effective recognition program, consider ways to create personalized rewards, career development opportunities, paid volunteer time off, or public recognition that reflects your team’s hard work.

Client Example: Crain Construction excels at recognizing employees through thoughtful gestures. From monthly “kudos” lunches on job sites to public shout-outs on social media, their consistent focus on recognition fosters a sense of belonging and celebrates the hard work behind their 90-year legacy.

4. Align Recruitment Marketing with Your Brand Identity

Successful recruitment requires effectively communicating your brand identity to potential employees. Showcase your company’s values, purpose, and culture in job postings and on career sites. Include employee testimonials, behind-the-scenes videos, and information about benefits that align with candidates’ priorities, like flexibility or mental health support.

Client Example: We collaborated with Maxwell Roofing to integrate their values into a variety of recruitment efforts, including the creation of a branded office space that reflects their identity. We also created a recruitment video featuring members of the Maxwell team, which has helped attract candidates who align with the company’s culture and mission. 

Questions to Help You Get Started

Here are a few questions to help you assess and improve your employee engagement and recruitment strategies:

  1. What do our employees value most about working here? Survey your team to find out what they appreciate about your workplace. Build on those strengths to retain talent.
  1. Do our recruitment efforts reflect who we are as a company? Ensure your job postings and outreach campaigns communicate your culture and values authentically.
  1. Are there areas where employees feel unrecognized or undervalued? Regular feedback helps you understand where recognition efforts might need improvement.
  1. Are we using the right channels to reach the talent we want? Evaluate whether your recruitment efforts are aligned with where your ideal candidates are active (e.g., social media, university job boards).

Need Help Engaging Employees or Attracting Top Talent?

A strong internal culture not only attracts top talent but also strengthens your external brand by making your business a place people want to work for and with. If you’re ready to align your recruitment, employee engagement, and brand-building strategies, contact Green Apple Strategy today. Our team would love to partner with you to create a strategic plan that supports your long-term success.

 

Creating a Ripple Effect: The Art & Science of Internal Marketing

desktop-computer-with-do-more-message

In the fast-paced world of business, where competition is fierce and customer expectations are constantly evolving, it’s easy for companies to become so focused on external marketing that they neglect the importance of internal marketing. But the truth is, your employees are your most valuable asset, and investing in internal marketing can have a profound impact on your overall success.

Internal marketing is the process of selling your company, its mission, and its values to your employees. It’s about creating a culture where everyone feels connected to the brand and passionate about its success. When employees are truly invested in a company, they become brand ambassadors, spreading enthusiasm and loyalty both inside and outside the workplace.

At Green Apple Strategy, we’ve seen firsthand the power of internal marketing. It’s not a buzzword; it’s a strategic approach that drives results. We’ve implemented internal marketing initiatives for our own team and our clients, and the outcomes have been consistently positive.

Why Investing in Internal Marketing is Essential

Investing in internal marketing is essential for several reasons. 

Internal marketing builds a strong and positive company culture.

When employees feel valued, understood, and aligned with the company’s mission, they’re more likely to be engaged, productive, and satisfied with their jobs. This leads to higher employee retention rates, reduced turnover, and increased morale.  

Internal marketing drives business growth. 

 Statistics show that engaged employees are 38% more likely to have above-average productivity. When employees are passionate about the company and its products or services, they’re more likely to go the extra mile for customers. This can lead to increased sales, improved customer satisfaction, and ultimately, a stronger bottom line.

Internal marketing enables you to empower employees to proudly advocate for your brand.

Research shows that employee-generated content is more trusted by consumers than traditional marketing materials. By equipping your employees with the knowledge and tools to share your brand story, you can significantly boost your online reputation and attract new customers.

Internal marketing is becoming more important, especially for younger generations in the workplace.

As the workforce becomes increasingly younger, with Millennials and Gen Z making up a larger percentage of the labor force, the need for strong internal marketing becomes even more critical. These generations value purpose, authenticity, and a positive work environment. Investing in internal marketing can help you attract and retain top talent from these demographics.

Effective Employee Marketing Campaigns

To create a truly impactful internal marketing strategy, it’s essential to implement creative and engaging campaigns. Here are a few examples of successful initiatives:

1. Creatively Reinforcing Brand Values in Tangible Ways

Employees are more likely to embody a company’s values if they see them reflected in the workplace. We recently worked with a client, Maxwell Roofing, to create a branded office space that showcased their core values. By incorporating visual elements and messaging throughout the office, we helped reinforce their brand identity and inspire employee pride.

2. Employee Surveys and Feedback

Listening to your employees is essential to understanding their needs, concerns, and ideas. Conducting regular employee surveys can provide valuable insights into company culture, employee satisfaction, and areas for improvement. We recently helped a client implement an employee culture survey that generated a wealth of data to inform future internal marketing initiatives.

3. Volunteering and Paid Time Off (PTO)

Giving back to the community is a powerful way to build employee morale and foster a sense of purpose. Many companies offer paid time off for volunteering, but going the extra mile can make a significant difference. 

At Green Apple Strategy, we’ve made volunteer PTO a core part of our culture, participating in team volunteer activities and encouraging employees to get involved in other volunteer efforts of interest to them.

4. Fun and Team-Building Activities

Fun activities outside the office can significantly enhance team cohesion. Whether it’s attending a comedy show or hosting industry-specific events like golf outings, these experiences create bonds that translate into better collaboration and morale in the workplace.

5. Employee-Generated Content

Empowering employees to share their thoughts and experiences can be a powerful way to build brand awareness and authenticity. Encouraging employees to contribute to your social media channels or company blog can help humanize your brand and create a stronger connection with your audience. For Olive + Leo, our hospitality-focused sister company, inviting employees to share their travel experiences through Instagram has not only enriched our content but also strengthened our brand’s connection with customers.

Need Help Elevating Your Internal Marketing Efforts?

Internal marketing isn’t just about improving workplace culture—it’s about empowering your team to amplify your brand’s message both internally and externally. Start investing in your employees today, and watch as the ripple effect positively impacts your entire business.

If you’re looking to improve your internal marketing strategy, Green Apple Strategy can help. We can work alongside you to identify the right strategy and help you create a strong internal culture that leads to happier, more engaged employees, which in turn leads to better customer experiences and improved business outcomes.

Remote Work (Summer Edition): Proven Tips to Stay Productive from Green Apple Strategy

The past few years have seen a dramatic shift in how we work. Remote work has become increasingly common across industries, and for good reason. It offers flexibility, freedom, and the potential for a better work-life balance. This flexibility is a game-changer, especially during the summer months when schedules shift and wanderlust sets in. Kids are out of school, vacations are calling, and the sunshine beckons us outdoors. However, increased travel and flexibility don’t have to cause a decrease in productivity.

Think about it: working remotely allows you to explore new places, gather fresh content inspiration, and prioritize your well-being by taking breaks that prevent burnout. Those are all factors that can lead to a more productive you!

The question, however, is how to maintain that productivity while basking in the summer sun (metaphorically or literally). At Green Apple Strategy, a full-service marketing agency based in Nashville, we’ve embraced remote work for years. Our team is a hybrid bunch, with members working from home offices and coffee shops across the globe. Through these experiences, we’ve gleaned valuable insights on maximizing remote work productivity during the sunny season.

Summer Hacks for Peak Remote Work Productivity

In this article, we’ll share some of the best practices we’ve learned to stay productive during the summer months. Hopefully, our tips will help you make the most of your remote working schedule. 

Embrace the Opportunity to Get Outside 

One of the unanimous favorites from our Green Apple team is to get outside. Remote work grants you the privilege of experiencing the energizing benefits of nature while still crushing your to-do list.  Imagine crafting a killer social media strategy while listening to the gentle lapping of waves on a beach vacation. You may find inspiration for your marketing while working from a local park or outdoor cafe. Take advantage of the beautiful summer weather and create a work environment that invigorates you.

Plan Your Week for Peak Performance

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to maximizing remote work productivity. Knowing your meeting schedule in advance allows you to plan your location for the week. Let’s say you have a Zoom call scheduled early on Tuesday. Perhaps you want to work from a co-working space on Monday, a coffee shop on Wednesday, and then head to a local park for some focused work on Thursday. Planning empowers you to take advantage of remote work’s flexibility and create a workweek that fuels your productivity.

Take the Opportunity to Rest and Relax

Remote work can be a double-edged sword. While it offers incredible flexibility, it can also blur the lines between work and personal life. Remember, numerous studies show that employees who take vacations are actually more productive upon their return. So, don’t be afraid to unplug and recharge. Go for a hike, have a picnic in the park, or simply relax with a good book. Embrace the summer leisure and return to your work feeling refreshed and ready to tackle any challenge.

Communicate Your Plan and Availability

Collaboration is vital in any creative environment, especially when your team is geographically dispersed. Summer vacations can throw a wrench into communication routines, so being proactive is essential. Let your team know your availability well in advance. Utilize project management tools to keep everyone on the same page, and don’t hesitate to schedule quick check-in calls to maintain momentum on projects.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Human Connection

While remote work offers many benefits, it can also lead to feelings of isolation. Remember, camaraderie is an important part of the work experience. As you create your schedule, consider planning a co-working day with a colleague once a week. This is a great way to break up the routine, brainstorm ideas, and enjoy each other’s company.  

Fun fact: during the summer months, the Green Apple team makes a conscious effort to schedule more team outings and social events. These experiences build a stronger work culture and encourage each team member to feel supported and contribute their best work.

Don’t Just Work: Thrive.

Remote work offers a fantastic opportunity to embrace a flexible and fulfilling work style. Here at Green Apple Strategy, we’re grateful for the chance to work this way, and we’re passionate about helping others maximize their remote work experience.

Want to learn more about our culture and what makes Green Apple Strategy a great place to work? We invite you to learn more about our approach to marketing and what it’s like to work at Green Apple.

The New Word of Mouth Marketing: Unleashing the Potential of User-Generated Content

Word of mouth has always been one of the most popular and reliable referral tools. However, in today’s digital age, we can quickly access information about any product or service with a quick online search. What’s the best air fryer for a large family? How should I style my new shoes? What’s the best beach to visit for summer vacation? All the answers are just a search engine query away.

Yet, with all this knowledge at our fingertips, research still shows that we are more likely to make a purchase if it is recommended by a friend, a family member, or another person we trust.

Brands have found a way to create word-of-mouth referrals in an online environment through user-generated content marketing (UGC). The ever-increasing popularity of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, among others, has positioned user-generated content as a pivotal force in the future of social media. Read on to discover why your brand should implement a strategy for finding and sharing user-generated marketing content and how to achieve success.

Benefits of User-Generated Marketing Content

Increase Engagement and Reach

By creating user-generated content—such as unboxing videos, testimonials, or product reviews—real customers can actively engage with a brand rather than just being a spectator on the sidelines. UCG can also work to create a community around the brand as enthusiasts react and comment on the shared authentic content. Brands should also be active participants in the conversation by responding to posts in a meaningful way.

Showcase Authenticity

Today’s consumers are smart. They can tell when content is genuine and when it is fabricated.  93 percent of marketers agree that consumers are more likely to trust content created by customers instead of content created by a brand. Honest content created by real people, like your employees, customers, and brand ambassadors, will become your brand’s modern-day word-of-mouth marketing. 

Save on Costs

User-generated content is much more cost-effective than partnering with an influencer and can have better results! Depending on the influencer, hiring one could cost millions of dollars. However, sourcing and sharing user-generated content is much more cost-effective. For instance, if you run a campaign that offers prizes for creating content about your brand, your time and financial investment will be lessened since the ideation, creation, and execution will be done by your audience. 

Increase Conversions

User-generated content offers a way to get authentic endorsements from real people, which will go a long way, with 50 percent of millennials relying on recommendations from family and friends before making a purchase. The content acts as social proof that your product or service meets or exceeds expectations while allowing potential customers to see their contacts engaging with your brand.

What’s also noteworthy is how seamlessly user-generated content works with social commerce. Social commerce refers to purchases made directly from social media apps. Nearly 80 percent of people say that user-generated content influences their purchase decisions. User-generated content creates a natural funnel for customers to move from viewing favorable reviews to purchasing the product, all without ever leaving their social feed.

Best Practices for User-Generated Marking Content 

Share the Content

One of the best ways to encourage user-generated content is to share it! Uncover UGC by searching hashtags and finding content that mentions your brand. You can also ask your customers to share their experiences with your product or service through a giveaway, contest, or campaign. Some brands even creatively include the request on their packaging.

Whatever way you choose to gather content, be sure to share it! Doing so encourages a sense of community and motivates others to create content, too—opening the door to unlimited, authentic content.

Always Ask Permission

Yes, share the content, but before you do, be sure to get approval from the original creator, letting them know you will give them credit when you share. Usually, customers will be thrilled to be featured, but checking first helps establish a trustworthy relationship. Plus, it keeps you out of hot water with customers who don’t want their content shared. 

Embrace Diversity

Millennials and Gen Z expect the brands they support to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion. Sharing user-generated content on social media allows you to do just that. Employees, customers, and brand ambassadors all come from different backgrounds, races, religions, genders, geographic areas, and experiences. While it could be complex to showcase a vast range of diversity in a traditional marketing campaign, sharing user-generated content makes it feasible for your brand to represent all of its enthusiasts.

Partner with a Marketing Agency

There are many moving parts to developing and implementing a successful social media strategy. It’s an essential aspect of marketing your business, but giving it the proper attention needed for success can be difficult. That’s why our team is here. Green Apple can work alongside you to seamlessly provide the help you need. We’ll strategize and implement, as well as measure results, optimize your ROI, and scale as you grow. Reach out to learn more about how we can help boost your brand.

Green Apple CEO and Founder Named 2023 Gold Stevie Award Winner

The Stevie Awards for Women in Business honor the achievements of women executives, entrepreneurs, employees, and the companies they run. We’re so proud to announce that Green Apple CEO and Founder Samantha Pyle has been crowned a 2023 Gold Stevie Award winner for Best Female Entrepreneur! 

Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 nominations each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. By honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the awards recognize outstanding performance in the workplace.

This accolade underscores Sam’s exceptional leadership and innovative approach to running a business. From leading strategy for clients to implementing paid VTO and successfully managing the transition of Green Apple into a remote office, Sam’s forward-thinking ability to navigate challenges is inspiring to her team and to her fellow entrepreneurs.

Green Apple’s process places as much value on strategic thinking and planning as it does on creativity and hard work. By starting with strategy, Samantha has built an agency that helps clients transform marketing from an obligation into a desirable, habitual practice in creative storytelling that is mutually beneficial to her clients, their customers, and their communities.

Representation and inclusion are a cornerstone of Green Apple Strategy’s success. With a core employee group composed of 90 percent women, Sam prioritizes diversity in her hiring and business development practices. A diversity of experiences and perspectives in any workforce, especially within the marketing industry, drives creativity and productivity and empowers organizations to genuinely empathize with their audiences.

Samantha’s influence and efforts extend far beyond the agency she’s built. She currently serves on the board of Thistle Farms, an organization that has provided a loving community, hope, and healing for women for over 25 years. In the past, Sam has served as board president of the Survivor Fitness Foundation and on advisory boards for the Tennessee Baptist Children’s Home, the American Cancer Society of Middle Tennessee, and the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Middle Tennessee. She recently completed her term on the EO Nashville board as the co-chair of Catalyst, an entrepreneurial development program for small businesses in Nashville, after her own participation in the Catalyst program.

Sam is currently pursuing her MBA at Lipscomb University, one of the nation’s top-ranked business programs, and is slated to graduate in the spring of 2024. We’re delighted to see our CEO recognized publicly for all that she brings to the table. 

 

2023 Wrapped: Green Apple’s Top Moments & Marketing Campaigns of the Year

As the year draws to a close, it’s natural to look back and reflect on all that’s happened. And for anyone with an Instagram account, it’s that time again when our social media feeds transform into a musical montage of friends’ top tracks and favorite artists courtesy of the Spotify Wrapped campaign. Whether you’re thrilled or slightly overwhelmed by the influx of Wrapped recaps, there’s something undeniably heartwarming about the collective effort to reminisce and rejoice in the memorable moments of the past 12 months. 

Here at Green Apple Strategy, we’ve caught the Wrapped fever and decided to create our rendition, celebrating the harmonious blend of creativity and hard work that went into our favorite marketing campaigns of the year. Just as Spotify songs transport us back to specific moments, our 2023 Wrapped is a chance for our team to relive the marketing magic generated through countless hours of brainstorming, planning, and execution. 

 

2023 Wrapped: Green Apple’s Top Moments & Marketing Campaigns of the Year

Without further ado, join us as we unwrap the highlights and unveil the stories behind Green Apple’s 2023 Wrapped: 

United Communications’ Project UNITE Celebration Event

Our partnership with United Communications has provided us with the privilege of supporting Project UNITE, their groundbreaking initiative to bridge the digital divide in Middle Tennessee. In January, we had the honor of organizing a newsworthy celebration event to commemorate the remarkable impact of Project UNITE.

We started 2023 off with the planning and promotion of a marquee event for our client, United Communications. United realized the size and scope of the celebration they wanted to have would require all hands on deck, so their marketing team reached out to Green Apple for support. United Communications leveraged our event planning expertise to create a celebration that would support the company’s brand promise of providing a world-class connection with a local commitment. Green Apple also played an important role in the timing of the event, coordinating efforts with government agencies to ensure Governor Bill Lee and other elected officials could attend prior to the start of Tennessee’s state legislative session.

The celebration was a huge success, generating significant interest from local TV news outlets in Nashville and Knoxville that resulted in 24 print and digital news articles. Green Apple’s PR and Content Marketing Strategist Chris Song played a vital role in this event’s success and says it’s certainly a project he won’t soon forget.

“I’m proud of what we accomplished as a team to make this event such a success for United Communications. Through a single event, we promoted our client’s close partnerships with community leaders throughout Middle Tennessee, galvanized more public support for Project UNITE, and helped shine a light on the largest broadband infrastructure investment in our state’s history.”

 

Survivor Fitness’ Website Launch 

We are incredibly proud of our collaboration with Survivor Fitness, an organization that empowers cancer survivors to reclaim their health and well-being through personalized training and nutritional guidance. Driven by its remarkable mission, Survivor Fitness has experienced rapid growth in recent years, extending its reach to thousands of cancer survivors across Middle Tennessee. To make an even greater impact, Survivor Fitness sought a new website to effectively convey their transformative story. Our team wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to partner with this exceptional organization. We meticulously crafted the website’s design, content, strategy, and project management, ensuring it accurately reflected Survivor Fitness’ dedication to empowering cancer survivors on their journey to holistic wellness. 

 

Crain Construction’s 90th Anniversary Celebration 

Crain Construction, a Nashville-based commercial contractor, has shaped the city for 90 years. Their dedication to building strong relationships alongside their impressive portfolio of construction projects has earned them a well-deserved reputation in the industry. Earlier this year, Crain Construction marked this remarkable milestone with an unforgettable celebration at one of their signature projects, The Prancing Horse of Nashville Ferrari Dealership. The event brought together generations of company leadership and employees, clients, and industry trade partners who have been integral to Crain’s journey.

Green Apple took care of the strategy and execution behind every detail of the party, including designing and sending the invitations, scheduling a video shoot, and coordinating PR coverage. Green Apple Client Relations Specialist Lindsay Lanahan and Assistant Client Relations Specialist Allison Gordon put a lot of work into this project. They both agreed it was one of the most memorable of 2023.

“It was so fun working with the client to create a memorable night commemorating their longstanding success. Plus, having the event at a brand-new Ferrari dealership was a cool experience!” Allison said.

Lindsay agreed, saying, “We got to celebrate in person with so many of the Crain employees we’d been interacting with for so long and hadn’t gotten to meet yet. We even got to meet Mark and Michael’s parents! The video shoot we did at their office was also a great experience.” 

 

Volunteering Together at Thistle Farms

Thistle Farms, a nonprofit dedicated to uplifting and empowering women, has been a beacon of hope and healing in Nashville for years. As an agency committed to giving back to our community, we had the privilege of volunteering with Thistle Farms several times throughout the year. These enriching experiences have allowed us to contribute to their remarkable mission while strengthening our team bonds. From assisting in candle preparation to decorating Christmas trees, each volunteer opportunity has been a testament to the power of collective action and the spirit of selflessness. We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to partner with Thistle Farms and make a meaningful impact on the lives of the women they serve.  

 

Sip & Sample Grand Opening for The Skylight  

The Factory at Franklin, a cornerstone of Franklin’s vibrant community, has undergone a remarkable transformation this year, redefining itself as a hub of connection for the community. Following its renovations, we had the honor of conceptualizing, planning, promoting, and executing a grand opening event to unveil the reimagined space and introduce the community to The Skylight Bar. The event was a success, drawing in over 300 enthusiastic attendees and selling out within 24 hours. The carefully crafted promotion generated over 1,300 Instagram and Facebook followers for The Skylight within weeks and garnered an astonishing $400,000 in advertising equivalent value. This grand opening event is a testament to the power of creativity, coordination, and the unwavering dedication of our team.

A few members of our team worked at the launch, including Assistant Client Relations Specialist Jordan Forbes.

“It was amazing seeing the great turnout,” she said. Everyone enjoyed themselves, and it generated excitement for the new bar and all the new restaurants opening. I loved seeing the Green Apple team show up for the client and do everything we could to ensure the event was a success.” 

 

textLIVING’s ProTalks by Joe

textLIVING, a rapidly growing white-label software company, recently embarked on an intentional journey to support its current partners and enlighten aspiring entrepreneurs and sales professionals seeking to venture into the white-label realm. In collaboration with the textLIVING team, we proudly launched ProTalks by Joe, a captivating masterclass-style video series. The success of ProTalks by Joe is a resounding affirmation of our ability to seamlessly collaborate with The Orchard, our esteemed team of marketing specialists, to transform the creative idea into a reality.

 

Maxwell Roofing’s Culture Walls and Video Shoot 

With a history spanning nearly 70 years, Maxwell Roofing’s values have been a cornerstone of its success, and our team eagerly embraced the opportunity to visually encapsulate this rich heritage by working with Maxwell Roofing to create Culture Walls, large-format signage that reflects their company’s values and inspire their employees. This project was a great example of our ability to combine different marketing strategies to achieve a common goal.

In 2023, we got the green light to move forward with Maxwell Roofing’s recruitment video. In October, members of the Green Apple team spent an entire day working alongside the company’s leadership team, coaching them through their portions of the video, and conducting multiple interviews with their employees. Olivia Cooper, Client Relations Director at Green Apple Strategy, has worked with the Maxwell Roofing team for years and says this memorable project provided her with some unique insight into the company. 

“Roofing is a hard career, so hearing these employees’ stories from behind the camera on why they chose this career and why our client, Maxwell Roofing, is such a great place to work was unique for us. One of the best parts of our job is getting to tell the story for Maxwell, via video, about why they’re such a great place to work.”

 

Survivor Fitness’ GivingTuesday Campaign

The 2023 GivingTuesday campaign for Survivor Fitness also stands out as one of our most impactful and inspiring marketing projects of the year. The campaign’s theme, “Because of You..,” resonated deeply with donors, highlighting the transformative impact of their contributions on the lives of cancer survivors. Another noteworthy milestone has been the organization’s remarkable year-over-year impact of GivingTuesday, expanding from supporting 300 training sessions in 2019 to 530 sessions this year. The growth is a testament to the dedication of the Survivor Fitness community, board, and team. 

 

The Gardner School Campaign Photos

The Gardner School has been a Green Apple client for over a decade. Every spring, ahead of a new school year, we head out for a photoshoot to collect a massive amount of content to use for TGS’s annual campaign. Months of prep work go into designing the look, feel, and messaging of a new campaign, and photos play a huge role in helping us tell a story. The Green Apple team works with the client to select a photographer, organize a day-of schedule, and create a comprehensive shot list for every photo that needs to be taken on that day. Client Relations Specialist, Kayla Reyes, says the effort is well worth it.

“These campaign photos are used regularly in all that we do for TGS year after year. We use them in paid media, advertising, social media, and the website (just to name a few). I know the client loves looking at them, and so does our team, after months of planning. I just think it is a resounding success that we can curate, create, and use these beautiful photos all year, ” she said. 

 

Working Remotely (from around the world)  

Several years ago, Green Apple embraced a hybrid agency model. Throughout the year, we witnessed the transformative power of remote work as our team members​​ worked from new and unexpected locations while seamlessly delivering exceptional service to our clients. Whether they were enjoying pretzels in Germany or taking Zoom calls from Ghana, working remotely has fostered a sense of connection and camaraderie and enriched our lives with experiences that extend far beyond the confines of a traditional office setting. 

 

Growing the Green Apple Family 

This year, our Green Apple family welcomed various new members who brought joy and encouragement. We celebrated the addition of several new team members, each one bringing their unique talents and perspectives to our agency. We also welcomed the heartwarming addition of a few new babies, whose smiles and playful spirits warmed our hearts. And to top it off, we celebrated our adorable four-legged friends who added their furry presence and unconditional love to our team.

 

Green Apple’s Soundtrack for Success: Our Team’s Spotify Wrapped

As we reflect on 2023, we’re filled with immense gratitude for the incredible moments and marketing campaigns we experienced. This year has been a testament to the dedication and passion of our team, who have worked tirelessly to implement creative ideas and celebrate our clients’ growth. 

And, of course, as Spotify fans, we’d be remiss not to share some of our favorite songs that kept us motivated and inspired throughout the year:

  • On My Mama – Victoria Monét (Allison Gordon)
  • Karma – Taylor Swift (Allison Gordon)
  • The Story – Brandi Carlile (Christa Spencer)
  • Pennies From Heaven – Louis Prima (Christa Spencer) 
  • Chloroform – Phoenix (Lindsay Lanahan)
  • Witchoo – Durand Jones & The Indications, Aaron Frazer (Olivia Cooper)
  • Barbie World – Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice (Courtney Cochran)
  • Banks – NEEDTOBREATHE (Kayla Reyes)
  • Northern Attitude (with Hozier) – Noah Kahan (Katie Shayotovich)
  • East Side of Sorrow – Zach Bryan (Katie Shayotovich)
  • As It Was – Harry Styles (Sam Pyle)
  • I Remember Everything – Zach Bryan with Kasey Musgraves (Sam Pyle)
  • Two Step – Dave Matthews Band (Sam Pyle)
  • Maine – Noah Kahan (Eden Hutchinson)
  • Summer Rain – Zimmer90 (Eden Hutchinson)
  • Bluey Theme Song – Bluey feat. Joff Bush (Chris Song)
  • How Deep Is Your Love – PJ Morton (Chris Song)

     

Discover How Green Apple Can Help You Amplify Your Success In The Year Ahead

Green Apple Strategy is more than a marketing agency. We partner with businesses to help them grow. Whether you’re planning your next event or looking for ways to help your brand grow, our team is here to help. Let’s schedule a time to talk about your marketing goals for the year ahead!

Tour The Orchard: Green Apple’s Powerhouse of Freelance Marketing Specialists

The Orchard has been a part of Green Apple Strategy from the beginning. When we started, we wanted to create a marketing agency that did things differently. We firmly believe that strategic marketing is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Each client has unique needs and goals, requiring a specialized approach. That’s where The Orchard comes into play. 

The Orchard became a way to build a team of specialists who could focus on what they do best and provide our clients with the highest level of service possible. Our Orchard is a diverse collection of talent from various areas of expertise, including graphic design, content creation, SEO and social marketing, video production, email marketing, and more. 

The Fruit: 5 Benefits The Orchard Offers Our Clients 

The Orchard has transformed our ability to work with top talent and provide clients with a team built just for them. Here’s how we do it:

We’re able to hire the best possible talent for every single project.

We’re not limited to a full-time team of creatives who may have limited experience in certain industries or lack specific skills. Instead, we can tap into a network of specialists from all over the world to find the perfect person for each job.

We can match Orchard members to our clients’ needs. 

The experience and expertise of Orchard members to our clients is crucial. This reduces the learning curve significantly and allows our team to hit the ground running. Our Orchard members take time to understand the industries they serve, providing tailored solutions and insights from day one.

Our team members take the time to know the clients they serve. 

In many marketing agencies, creative specialists are inundated with last-minute requests and projects. By dividing the workload effectively, our freelance specialists can delve into the nuances of each client’s business. This allows our content specialists to truly grasp the voice, messaging, and tone for each client and craft highly effective creative that matches brand standards. 

We’re able to work with specialists from around the country. 

As we transitioned into a hybrid model agency, The Orchard became even more valuable to our process. Having a diffuse network of specialized talent means that we can build a skilled team that will best serve each client, regardless of where they’re located.

Our Client Relations Team can focus on what they do best. 

With The Orchard handling specialized tasks, our Client Relations Team can focus on what they do best: high-level strategy and complex project management. Our Client Relations Specialists are freed up to focus on strategy without having to worry about who is going to staff certain needs. Our Assistant Client Relations specialists can focus on project management by collaborating with Orchard members who are quick to respond. And if specific needs or client load increases, additional Orchard members can be onboarded to meet that need. 

Experience a Partnership with Green Apple Strategy 

The Orchard is one of our proudest achievements as an agency. It’s something that truly sets us apart from other marketing agencies. It’s also the reason we’re able to provide our clients with such a high ROI and measurable results.

If you’re looking for a marketing agency that can help you achieve your business goals, we’d love to learn more about your unique needs. We’re confident in our team’s ability to meet your needs and help you take your business to the next level. And if you’re a freelance marketing specialist, designer, content writer, video editor, or SEO specialist, we’re always looking for good folks to join The Orchard! Sign up for our newsletter to stay in touch. 

The Do’s and Don’ts of Event Marketing: Lessons Learned from Our Experiences

There’s nothing quite like an event to boost enthusiasm and excitement around your brand. Virtual and in-person events each serve a unique purpose for connecting with your target audience. While events are effective, they can also consume a lot of staff time and financial resources. 

Effective event marketing strategies can help you get the best return on your investment. Using our experience as professional marketers and event planners, our team at Green Apple Strategy has put together a list of practical tips to ensure your next event is successful. 

The Do’s 

Do Set Goals (and a Budget!)

When it comes to strategic event planning, always begin with the end in mind. Before you set a date, reserve a venue, or book entertainment, you must determine the goal of the event. Is it to position your brand as a stakeholder in the community? Is it to tell a story about your brand? Or is it to generate leads and make sales? 

Once you set your goal, be sure to set your budget. Your event will look very different if you have a $5,000 budget versus a $50,000 one. 

Knowing the answer to these questions—and staying true to them—will guide you when making choices about venue, food, entertainment, marketing, and more. It will set you down the path of pulling off a successful, cohesive event that meets your strategic goals. 

Do Amplify Partnerships 

Most events require partnerships with third-party vendors and sponsors such as entertainment, catering, AV equipment, corporations, and more. Capitalize on these partnerships by highlighting them on social media or in a company email newsletter. Showcasing your business as a collaborative brand is great PR because it demonstrates your involvement and investment in your local community. Additionally, tagging these vendors in your social media posts can expose you to new audiences. 

Do Use Text and Email 

In today’s multi-channel, digital world, you have to meet your audience where they are. This means connecting with them on their phone and in their email inboxes through personalized, well-thought-out, and well-timed text messages and emails. Text messages are a great way to send key event information that doesn’t require a lot of copy. At the same time, an email drip campaign can spark interest and move your target audience to attend. 

The Don’ts 

Don’t Limit Your Focus to Ticket Sales  

Yes, you want to sell tickets to your event. Besides, you can’t have an event if no one comes! However, be careful not to focus your messaging only on ticket sales. Your audience needs to know where to buy tickets, but they also may be interested in what to wear, nearby hotels, or participating vendors. The purpose of all of your event-related content will be to drive ticket sales, even if some of it takes a more subtle approach. 

Don’t Set It and Forget It 

We love strategy so much that we included the word in the name of our business! But just because you have a strategy doesn’t mean you can’t be flexible if needed. When marketing your event, be sure to pay attention to all the analytics you have access to. Some numbers to look at are email open rates and click-through rates, social media impressions, and engagement levels. If you aren’t getting the desired results, adjust your approach to capture greater interest from your target audience. 

Don’t Forget to Follow Up

Congratulations! Your event is over, and your work is done! Well, almost. Post-event follow-up offers another opportunity to connect with your target audience. In fact, it’s so important that we consider it one of our best practices for event planning! After the event wraps, send out surveys to gather meaningful feedback that can be used to assess the event’s success and plan future gatherings. You can also use this time to connect with new leads and thank vendors and sponsors to further deepen your working relationships.
 

Get Started on Your Next Event 

Ninety-five percent of marketers believe that in-person events can have a positive impact on achieving their company’s goals. Green Apple Strategy understands that events can boost awareness, community connections, and revenue. But we also know they can take time, resources, and staff to pull off. 

Our team is here to help! Reach out to us today, and let’s talk about the benefits that the right special event can bring to your business.

Beyond the Books: 4 Insights Learned from My Marketing Internship by Eden Hutchinson

At Green Apple, our top priority has always been hiring good people and fostering their development in a way that helps them grow professionally and personally. Over the past few years, we’ve collaborated with local universities in Nashville to provide marketing internships to aspiring undergraduates. This summer, we were fortunate to welcome Eden Hutchinson to our team. Eden’s unwavering passion for marketing and dedication to our clients make her an invaluable asset. She seizes every chance to acquire new skills and knowledge. In this blog post, we’re handing the keyboard over to Eden, allowing her to share some of the invaluable lessons she’s gathered as a marketing intern at Green Apple.

As a business and marketing double major, I read about countless marketing principles in school. But this internship has taught me even more valuable lessons that can’t be learned from books. Working at Green Apple, I’ve had the chance to discover how marketing is applied in different industries. I also learned how to tailor marketing strategies to each client’s specific needs. But more importantly, I learned the importance of teamwork, collaboration, and real-world experience. These practical skills are essential for marketing success. 

In this blog post, I wanted to highlight the most valuable lessons I learned from my marketing internship. These lessons have helped me go beyond marketing basics and provided a holistic understanding of the field.

 

4 Insights Learned from My Marketing Internship

1. Project management is the cornerstone for marketing success. 

During my internship at Green Apple, my primary focus was collaborating with the Client Relations team, who are responsible for collaborating with clients and executing marketing ideas. I quickly grasped the importance of having a well-structured system to keep track of all the marketing activities and elements for each client. I’ve learned the value of embracing a process-driven approach to marketing and implementing proven project management best practices to work smarter rather than harder. For example, most of the work executed by the Green Apple team happens in Basecamp, a project management tool that enables us to create and execute tasks methodically.  

Over the summer, I honed my ability to break down complex objectives into manageable steps, and I now find myself applying this skill to other areas of my life.

 

2. Team culture makes a tremendous difference in how people show up to work every day. 

As a business undergraduate student, my classes often discuss the significance of company culture. However, I’ve learned that culture is often a concept you must experience firsthand to grasp its importance. After multiple internships, I’ve been immersed in various company cultures, and it’s been fascinating to experience the difference.

At Green Apple, I’ve seen how a positive culture directly impacts productivity. There’s a deliberate focus on fostering a positive and enjoyable company culture. Some of the things that make Green Apple’s culture so great include bi-weekly team meetings where everyone shares a “weekend happy,” and employees are encouraged to travel or take volunteer time off. 

I’ve seen the difference it can make when you work in an environment that is kind and uplifting. I’m more motivated to do well because I’m surrounded by supportive people who want me to succeed.


3. Getting your hands dirty is the best way to learn.

One of the things I’ve loved most about my internship is getting the opportunity to help with numerous projects for the agency and our clients. This has taught me that getting involved in many projects is the best way to grow. By working on various one-off projects, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of how the company functions and all the behind-the-scenes work that goes into success. No class can fully prepare you for this, but Green Apple’s culture of encouraging employee success has allowed me to dive into projects I would never have had in another internship. And because my work matters to the company’s growth, I know it’s making a real difference.


4. Don’t ignore the analytics.

One of the most valuable aspects of my internship has been learning about the reporting process. I had no prior experience in this area, but I quickly realized how important analytics are for making informed business decisions.

The idea that analytics can help teams improve their marketing efforts makes sense in theory, but seeing it in practice has really driven home the importance of a data-driven approach. Marketing for any client requires an adaptive mindset, and analytics can help teams make the necessary adjustments to improve their efforts and achieve their long-term goals continually.


Get Your Hands Dirty with the Green Apple Team 

We’re incredibly grateful for the ideas and support Eden has offered during her internship and are excited about the opportunity to keep her on for another semester. If you’re a marketing professional or undergraduate student looking for an internship in the Nashville area, you can learn more about what it’s like to work at Green Apple or reach out to our team to apply.

The Impact of Volunteer Time Off for Your Employees & Culture

At some level, every human wants to make a positive difference in the lives of others. Oftentimes, we may find ourselves wanting to make an impact but there simply aren’t enough hours in the day. Volunteer time off (VTO) makes it possible to balance giving back and collecting a paycheck. When coupled with a company’s mission to create a thoughtful work environment, VTO can boost an organization’s reputation and culture. 

Since Green Apple was founded, we’ve placed great emphasis on the importance of community outreach and have offered pro bono services to nonprofits and organizations across Tennessee. Now, every member of the Green Apple team has the opportunity to receive paid time off to volunteer with organizations of their choice. 


How Volunteer Time Off Works

Companies that offer paid time off for volunteering typically give one or two days a year to do so. Hours that can be used for volunteerism are usually separate from PTO for other uses like vacation or sick days. 

Green Apple provides 16 hours a year of volunteer PTO. The system at Green Apple allows us to choose our own activity and submit a request for time off to volunteer on our own. In addition to volunteering on our own at the place of our choosing, we also volunteer as a team several times throughout the year at Thistle Farms in Nashville. Green Apple began volunteering with Thistle Farms in 2022 and we’re currently working to grow our relationship with the organization and provide additional support. 


Benefits for All 

Paid time off for volunteering is a win-win-win situation. For starters, a UnitedHealthcare study shows that of the respondents who volunteered in a 12-month period, 93% said they experienced an improved mood, and 79% reported lower stress levels. There is a real link between personal happiness and productivity at work. So by encouraging your employees to volunteer, you may be boosting their mental health which would benefit the whole company.

Volunteer time off can be a workplace perk that helps your company stand out from the competition. Adding VTO to an existing list of people-supportive perks (such as remote work and flexible schedules) will also have an impact on engaging current and future employees alike. 

Finally, VTO is a great way to build camaraderie among your team members while they give back. Members of the Green Apple team recently participated in YUM!East, an annual fundraising event benefiting Fannie Battle Day Home in Nashville. Our team in Charlotte also volunteered their time for a cause benefiting the Move For Jenn Foundation. 

Acknowledging social responsibility or volunteerism is a powerful way to leverage your company’s community to create deeper, more personal connections with your audience/clients. We explore additional ways to create more meaningful relationships with your customers in this blog. 

VTO is a trending employee perk that we hope grows into standard practice for all companies. If you’re interested in keeping up with the changing work environment or just want to stay informed about the latest trends (and how they impact your business), our team is here to help. You can sign up for The Core, our monthly newsletter, to get the latest marketing insights and inspiration delivered directly to your inbox.