The founder of Scream Media Africa, Jimmy Coker (a.k.a Kingcokes), is a graduate of Communication and Language Arts from the University of Ibadan. In this interview with CHINEYE UDEZO, he reveals how to worm a brand into consumers’ hearts
What inspired the idea into this business?
I have always wanted to be a media person since childhood. So, upon getting admission to the University of Ibadan, I already knew what I wanted. In my first year, I joined the press club and became one of the best entertainment writers. In my second year, I started consulting for people and holding events. By my third/fourth year, I spoke to my guy, who was running a tech magazine and he brought me on board. After a while, I became popular because we were known by youths and accepted by most students then. I brought idea of award events for students. Since then, I have been in the industry.
How well do you know the industry?
With all sense of modesty, I can say I have a very good idea of the industry as a whole also the different sectors; from entertainment, media to film.
Who is your mentor in the industry?
To be very honest, I feel like I learnt from everybody. I really cannot pick on anybody as my mentor. But I look up to everybody that is doing well in my field.
Where would you recommend entrepreneurs to invest their time?
I would advise entrepreneurs to invest their time in studying the market. Most importantly, they should invest time in creating and proving better services and products.
Where do you think companies got it wrong in social media marketing?
There are things some companies do not understand. First, no matter how big or prominent your brand is, you need to run public relations on social media to register it in the hearts of people, so they can consciously get used to your brand.
Also, social media marketing is not magic; it takes a while and the results might not show immediately, except that your product is an immediate need of people. You need to take time to put your brand out there through marketing, after planning strategies that will be worked on continuously and consistently.
If you have multiple projects on your plate, how do you handle completing them on time?
You have to possess multi-tasking ability to come out with good results. Another important thing to note is having a good team and being able to delegate duties to people who are capable of getting the job done. That is why over here, protégés and subordinates learn the ropes and become perfect at it. That way, they can handle projects and deliver.
How would you handle a PR crisis, such as a controversial tweet from one of your affiliates?
The first thing to do is to calm down, look at the angle and work on proper damage control
How do you generate ideas?
I love to explore. I love to think outside the box, so it helps me to generate ideas.
Where do you see yourself professionally five years from now as an idea guru?
Professionally, in five years’ time, I plan to expand and do more in the game. I see myself on top as the go-to guy for ideas.
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