Why We Appointed An Advisory Board

In May of this year, Emerging Market Media appointed its first global Advisory Board. I say “global” because that is what we as a firm are. Growing, incredibly diverse and dispersed around the globe. From Cape Town to Singapore, our experienced correspondents live and work in key markets around the globe.

So why now? We are approaching our second year of “business” and while our brand is growing, so are our overall mission and team. Having a solid stable of professionals backing us in spirit (at the very least) was the next and ideal step for us. Our Board, my cofounder and I agreed, would represent our brand, field our questions, engage with us on predetermined occasions and support us within their respective industries by raising awareness and visibility. From product to design to ongoing business strategy, we feel as though we’ve assembled a solid group of professionals to join us on our journey.

My cofounder and I debated the opportunity cost and how we would make it “worth” their time. And, whom, exactly should we approach? Friends? Maybe. Industry colleagues? Potential professional conflicts could arise. Only media or only business pros? It took us close to a year to pull it all together. And when we did, we knew we had made the right move for the business and even ourselves. We discussed the opportunity cost involved for all and how we would strategically tap into the knowledge and expertise of each while not being a burden. We took their personal and professional obligations into consideration. We “interviewed” them and explained how we intended to make the most of their expertise. With all on board and eager to support a growing brand, we knew the time was right.

The lesson learned: Relationships, no matter what, still very much matter.

Read more about our Global Advisory Board here.