Eddy Okun

🚀 Want to take your B2B outreach from “hit or miss” to laser-focused? Imagine having instant access to verified Canadian business contacts across every industry, all in one place. With Scott’s Directories, you’re not just scrolling through names… you’re connecting with real decision-makers who can turn your next pitch into a signed deal. Start building relationships that matter and watch your sales pipeline grow 📈 t.ly/0nqjX #B2BLeads #LeadGeneration #CanadianBusiness #SalesGrowth #NetworkingSuccess #ScottsDirectories

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Most marketing campaigns fail before launch due to poor readiness. Learn how launch planning, metrics, and alignment drive stronger ROI and results.

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Engineers don't hate marketing. They hate bad marketing. 🤷‍♀️ I had a great conversation on the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine podcast about what REALLY works when marketing to technical audiences. Listen here https://lnkd.in/e2tPBHH4 - jump to 5:00 for the meat, sorry advertisers ;) The biggest takeaway? Engineers aren't allergic to marketing – they're allergic to BAD marketing. We need to ditch the fluff and speak their language. That means clear, credible, and customer-driven communication. It's about being a translator of technical value, not a simplifier of it. A stat that blew my mind? 91% of #engineers still subscribe to newsletters! (Shoutout to Wendy Covey and the crew at TREW Marketing and their "2025 State of Marketing to Engineers" report for that golden nugget - linked in comments) Key takeaways: 1. Respect their time. 2. Speak their language. 3. Lead with proof, not promises. Want more insights on how to create high-impact content that resonates with engineers, CTOs, and R&D leaders?Listen to the full podcast here: https://lnkd.in/e2tPBHH4 #B2BMarketing #TechMarketing #ProductMarketing #MarketingStrategy #B2Bmarketing #industrialmarketing #engineers #marketingresearch

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Most GTM plans are built to launch. Very few are built to scale. I meet a lot of teams who think they’re ready for growth. They’ve got: → A campaign plan → A media budget → And maybe even a launch date But the real question isn’t: “Are we ready to go live?” It’s: “Can our system absorb growth without breaking?” Here’s the framework I use to evaluate GTM readiness across 3 core pillars: 1. Strategy and Alignment → Are KPIs shared across the exec team? If the CFO is focused on contribution margin,  And the CMO reports on clicks - there’s already a misfire. Scaling needs a shared growth language: ✅ CAC Payback ✅ LTV:CAC ✅ Marginal investment curves → Is growth aligned to P&L success drivers? True investment strategy lives at the intersection of: → Brand → Performance → Financial impact 2. Data Infrastructure → Do you trust your data across every team? Marketing reports $100 CAC. Finance sees $140. Sales has its own version. If your data doesn’t align - your decisions won’t either. → Is the infrastructure built to scale? You need: → Full-funnel tracking → High-quality inputs → Real-time reporting that informs action - not post-mortems 3. Tools and Operational Capacity → Can your systems support expansion? Scaling isn’t just more of the same. It’s: - New channels - New spend patterns - New tests Your stack needs to support: ✅ Incrementality ✅ Attribution ✅ Fast testing cycles → Can your team execute with speed? Strategy is table stakes. Execution speed is the edge. If it takes over a week to go from signal → action? You’re not agile enough to scale. Before you launch another initiative, ask: Is our system built to scale - across people, data, and execution? Because if it isn’t, adding dollars won’t add results. It’ll just add friction. You don’t need to be perfect across all three. But you do need to know your blind spots - and plan around them. That’s the difference between controlled scale and expensive chaos. * * * I talk about the real mechanics of growth, data, and execution. If that’s what you care about, let’s connect.

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Most GTM plans are built to launch. Very few are built to scale. I meet a lot of teams who think they’re ready for growth. They’ve got: → A campaign plan → A media budget → And maybe even a launch date But the real question isn’t: “Are we ready to go live?” It’s: “Can our system absorb growth without breaking?” Here’s the framework I use to evaluate GTM readiness across 3 core pillars: 1. Strategy and Alignment → Are KPIs shared across the exec team? If the CFO is focused on contribution margin,  And the CMO reports on clicks - there’s already a misfire. Scaling needs a shared growth language: ✅ CAC Payback ✅ LTV:CAC ✅ Marginal investment curves → Is growth aligned to P&L success drivers? True investment strategy lives at the intersection of: → Brand → Performance → Financial impact 2. Data Infrastructure → Do you trust your data across every team? Marketing reports $100 CAC. Finance sees $140. Sales has its own version. If your data doesn’t align - your decisions won’t either. → Is the infrastructure built to scale? You need: → Full-funnel tracking → High-quality inputs → Real-time reporting that informs action - not post-mortems 3. Tools and Operational Capacity → Can your systems support expansion? Scaling isn’t just more of the same. It’s: - New channels - New spend patterns - New tests Your stack needs to support: ✅ Incrementality ✅ Attribution ✅ Fast testing cycles → Can your team execute with speed? Strategy is table stakes. Execution speed is the edge. If it takes over a week to go from signal → action? You’re not agile enough to scale. Before you launch another initiative, ask: Is our system built to scale - across people, data, and execution? Because if it isn’t, adding dollars won’t add results. It’ll just add friction. You don’t need to be perfect across all three. But you do need to know your blind spots - and plan around them. That’s the difference between controlled scale and expensive chaos. * * * I talk about the real mechanics of growth, data, and execution. If that’s what you care about, let’s connect.

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Website Link Below: https://lnkd.in/ekQTZR_Z Tired of logging into a dozen different platforms to manage client ads? This video showcases Vendasta MatchCraft, the unified advertising platform that consolidates search (Google, Bing), social (Meta, LinkedIn), and display advertising into a single dashboard with AI-driven optimization. Discover how you can streamline campaign creation using a proprietary library of keywords and ad copy, let AI automatically allocate budget to top-performing ads, and capture leads directly into your CRM. Learn the difference between the self-serve MatchCraft Platform for full control and the hands-off MatchCraft Managed Service, where Vendasta experts run campaigns for you. Key Features Covered: • Unified Cross-Channel Management: Control campaigns for Google, Bing, Meta, LinkedIn, StackAdapt, and Yelp from one interface. • AI-Powered Optimization: Automated bid management, budget allocation, and responsive ad suggestions to maximize conversions and ROAS. • Proven Ad Library: Jumpstart campaigns with pre-built, localized keyword lists and ad copy spanning 2,500+ business categories. • Lead Capture Integration: Connect ad clicks directly to forms, call tracking, or AI chat, routing qualified leads automatically into your CRM. • Transparent Reporting & Pacing: Gain full visibility into ad spend performance and results with clear, actionable insights. • Flexible Service Models: Use the powerful self-serve platform OR opt for the fully managed service where Vendasta's experts handle setup, optimization, and reporting. Simplify your agency's workflow, improve client results, and scale your ad services efficiently. #PPC #DigitalAdvertising #AIAdvertising #AdAgency #MatchCraft #Vendasta #GoogleAds #FacebookAds #AdAutomation #ROAS #MarketingAgency #AdManagement

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Thrilled to have joined Jeff Tomlin, Co-Founder and CMO at Vendasta Technologies Inc., on the Conquer Local Podcast! 🎙️ In this episode, we dive into the power of mastery through repetition, why consistent practice builds confidence, sharpens skills, and accelerates growth. If you’re leading a team, growing an agency, or simply looking to level up your expertise, this conversation will give you practical takeaways you can apply right away. 👉 Watch the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/eqkTTca5

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Since we're talking about downtime among tech vendors.... OpenAI seems to have caught the same bug Shopify had yesterday and is now down for many users.

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Every agency owner wants to deliver more value to clients without adding complexity to their workflow. 🚀 This video explains how MAGNFI inside VENDASTA allows agencies to instantly deploy powerful video tools across their existing marketing stack. 🎥 From video messaging and testimonials to smart integrations with Conversations AI, CalendarHero, and email, agencies can unlock high perceived value services without production crews, complicated software, or long setup times. ⚡ The result is simple. Agencies increase retainers, close more deals, reduce churn, and unlock new revenue from existing clients using video as a scalable marketing asset. 💰 MAGNFI turns agencies into the hero by making video deployment fast, simple, and profitable. 🦸♂️ ✅ Video everywhere 📹 ✅ Instant video testimonials ⭐ ✅ Smart video integrations 🔗 ✅ High perceived value 💎 MAGNFI helps agencies deliver more value, strengthen client relationships, and grow revenue without adding complexity. 🚀 👉 Check the comments to learn more about MAGNFI.

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With consumer complaints on the rise, marketers face a tough balancing act: innovate and compete, while staying compliant with complex regulations. In my latest Canadian Marketing Association podcast episode, I'm joined by Steven Harroun, VP of Compliance & Enforcement at the CRTC. Steven's expertise sits at the critical intersection of marketing compliance and consumer protection in Canada's digital landscape. He oversees the enforcement of regulations that directly impact how Canadian marketers operate, and his unique position makes him an invaluable voice for marketers navigating Canada's complex compliance landscape. Steven and his team are highly valued partners to the CMA and our members and this episode is a 'must listen' for marketers at every level. We discuss: 💡 Where most complaints are coming from 💡 The biggest compliance pitfalls for marketers 💡 How to respect consumer choice while driving results 💡 Strategies for staying ahead in Canada’s evolving digital landscape 🎧 Listen now on Spotify: https://lnkd.in/eAMU3Uns 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts: https://lnkd.in/eH_6WNv9 🎧 Listen now on Libsyn: https://lnkd.in/e3ztZQ2t #CMAConnect #MarketingPodcast #CRTC #Compliance #marketing #CanadianMarketing

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I'm excited to share that Vector Institute has supported the development of the Canadian Marketing Association's groundbreaking new AI resources for marketers. As a marketing leader who has embraced AI's transformative potential, I'm particularly proud of this collaboration. The CMA's newly released "Guide on AI for Marketers" and "Setting the Stage on Artificial Intelligence: A Primer for Marketers" provide essential frameworks for responsible AI adoption in our field. Why This Matters - The timing couldn't be more critical. According to CMA's recent survey: 74% of CMA members use generative AI tools weekly (exceeding the 62% average for Canadian knowledge workers) - Yet 44% are uncertain about their company's AI policies - 56% report inadequate or non-existent AI training At Vector Institute, we've been at the forefront of AI innovation, enabling cutting edge research and fostering community with the world's greatest AI researchers, and helping enterprises and organizations adopt this great research into their solutions and products. This practical experience informed our review of the CMA's resources. I encourage all my marketing colleagues to explore these invaluable resources on their website and at the upcoming CMAai virtual event on April 10, where the CMA will also unveil findings from their "Generative AI Readiness Survey." As Marketers - let's lead the way in responsible AI adoption that enhances creativity, drives efficiency, and delivers exceptional customer experiences. The future of marketing is here—and it's augmented by strategic AI implementation... not "random acts of AI". https://lnkd.in/gYTDvfGs #AIInMarketing #ResponsibleAI #MarketingInnovation #VectorInstitute #CanadianMarketingAssociation #Leadership

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Canada is one of the easiest markets to expand into right now: - Cheaper ad costs - Less competition - Consumers who aren’t numb to marketing yet The challenge for most brands comes from shipping, paperwork, and compliance, which can really hold them back. There’s a 3PL in Vancouver that makes all of that hassle easy. - Overnight shipping to major Canadian cities - Daily drops to Washington → straight into USPS - Help with paperwork & compliance - No more packing orders yourself It’s ideal for brands ready to expand into Canada or anyone who wants fulfillment handled without the stress. This is the 3PL that removes all the friction of expanding into Canada: https://lnkd.in/gEfxQkee

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What I've Learned About My Shopify vs. BigCommerce Article My B2B platform comparison certainly stirred the pot. The comments section delivered exactly what I expected—passionate responses from both sides and some genuinely useful criticism. My Research Methods Need Work John Arquette nailed me with: "I think my favorite part is where the author verified all of the Shopify functionality by talking to the BigCommerce team." Guilty as charged. But, in my defense, I did talk to Shopify. But maybe I already had my tinted glasses on. Shopify Is Evolving Quickly Several commenters pointed out that Shopify has been strategically addressing these B2B limitations: Denis Dyli shared that as a Shopify B2B agency, only 2 out of 20 projects they scoped in Q1 required custom apps Jared Shaner noted Shopify's massive R&D budget means they're actively closing these gaps Partner solutions like Zaelab now provide service layers addressing many B2B needs B2B Isn't One-Size-Fits-All Denis made another excellent point: "B2B varies greatly from one vertical to another." What's mission-critical for a manufacturer might be irrelevant for a wholesale apparel brand. I should have acknowledged this spectrum of needs. The Sales Process Problem Is Real Matt Dunphy's comment that "it's a lot easier to sell when you're just making stuff up" resonated with many, reinforcing my point about the gap between sales promises and implementation reality. Updated Takeaways There's no perfect B2B platform—your specific requirements matter more than market share The capability gap is closing through both direct development and strategic partnerships Always verify capabilities through demonstrations, not just presentations Sometimes the best solution is a platform plus carefully selected integrations My goal wasn't to declare a winner but to encourage better evaluation. Based on your comments, many of you are doing just that—and holding platforms (and commentators like me) accountable. I appreciate both the pushback and validation. That's how we all improve. What's your experience with platform evaluations? Has involving technical stakeholders earlier led to better outcomes?

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Everyone’s chasing shiny new AI tools, and we’re building them too. But we’re just as focused on making our core workflows the best they’ve ever been. Starting today, a brand new ordering experience is live in Vendasta. It’s fast. Flexible. Designed to eliminate friction across the entire commerce flow. A few highlights: - One unified order flow. No more juggling forms, contracts, and approvals. - Set product activation and deactivation dates with precision. - Choose how to get paid: instantly with stored payment methods or via customer approval. - Preview fulfillment forms and admin approvals before submitting. - Orders auto-save as drafts so you never lose progress. We're working hard on making Vendasta the world's best AI-powered customer acquisition and engagement platform. But that only works if every touchpoint (from lead to order to fulfillment) feels good to use. Today’s release is about reducing operational drag and unlocking time, margin, and focus for our partners. AI can't (always) fix a clunky workflow. So we did. Available now for all partners.

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