We are excited to present our interview with Jakub Rudnik, Director of Content Marketing and an Adjunct Professor. With extensive experience in various marketing domains, Jakub is a dynamic professional who excels as a storyteller, educator, leader, and creative marketer. His expertise spans TOFU (Top of Funnel Content) and MOFU (Middle of Funnel Content), organic content strategy, digital PR, link building, community building, and much more. Jakub’s background as a journalist adds a unique perspective to his work. Explore our interview to gain valuable knowledge by learning about Jakub’s journey and what success looks like.
Can you tell us a little bit about your background and how you got started in your field?
I’m a journalist by training and got into content marketing simply to have better hours and pay. I got lucky that the company I joined was G2 Crowd; I was employee 32 after its Series A round and left when it was 450 employees and had raised Series C. Since getting into the field I’ve led SEO + Content Marketing Teams at five companies.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your career, and how did you overcome them?
Many of the biggest challenges came from a business goal that seemed impossible to reach: traffic, trials, revenue. Often after quarters of growth something stagnates, and you find yourself with a short period of time and a big mountain to climb. These are the most stressful times of your career, and also the most rewarding. Instead of doing the same thing you did last quarter, you have to find a way to grow faster. So you try something new every day, you learn where you can cut corners and how to scale something in a way that didn’t seem possible. If you have these opportunities, use First Principles to eliminate all preconceived notions about what is possible.
What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your career, and how have they influenced your approach to leadership?
Every obstacle, every challenge — these are massive opportunities. When times are hard, leaders step up; the best employees can prove their mettle; things are shaken up in a way that can be at your advantage. So instead of sulking or getting down when something doesn’t go right, use it as an opportunity to learn and try a different way.
One thing that people don’t know about you and not listed on your LinkedIn profile?
When I graduated college I sold cell phones in a retail store. I felt like I was falling behind in life and not reaching my potential. I hated my job. Six years after leaving that job I was leading a 22-person marketing team. You’re never stuck in the position you’re in, you can always change your path.
What advice would you give to young professionals or entrepreneurs who are just starting out in your field?
Consume everything. I get ideas for marketing and content from my competitors of course, but more often I get inspiration from far different places. Just consume great content with a thoughtful eye and you’ll take something away every time.
We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Jakub Rudnik as we conclude this interview, for generously sharing his remarkable journey with us. His insights and experiences are invaluable, and we are grateful for his willingness to inspire and educate others.
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