What I have learned from this class is the value of marketing and the power of influence.

Marketing is a powerful tool that can be used to influence people and create authentic connections with your targeted audience.

Influence in today's time can be compared to the antics of propaganda from our historic past. Propaganda first became a thing back during World War I, but it has been around for much longer than that--since at least 1914! It seems like all forms of media are guilty: movies trying out their own versions on social causes and politicians; advertisements using guilt trips or fear tactics (you'll die if you don't eat this); news programs broadcasted by television networks where they report lies as truth because "they" say so...the list goes ON AND ON!!

The difference between today's influence and yesterday’s was once more about selfish versus unselfish motivations. Today, we use propaganda for personal gain; however, our motives usually don't come at the expense of those who are targeted by them. The tactics are more honest. Transparent and are used to tell a better story as a means to connect genuinely. Which is why influence is so powerful and is now the main source for how people market and brand their products and services (Norwich University Online, 2020). 

Another significant take away from this class is understanding the value behind exposure. Getting the word out and taking up as much digital space as possible. The more exposure your brand has the stronger and wider your reach become. I have learned that having a solid strategy that is constant is just as important to your brand’s success as having a quality product. Today you cannot grow without a successful plan and an effective digital footprint.

(via https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=By8YeyRdfIM)