AI and automation are transforming marketing by making it smarter, faster, and more personalized. AI enhances customer experiences through predictive analytics, personalization at scale, and AI-powered chatbots for efficient customer support. Automation, on the other hand, boosts efficiency by handling tasks like email campaigns, social media scheduling, and performance reporting. Together, these technologies allow marketers to make data-driven decisions, nurture leads, and create seamless customer interactions. As AI and automation evolve, they’ll continue to offer deeper insights and more immersive experiences, ensuring businesses stay competitive and deliver exceptional marketing.

April is Neurodiversity Celebration Month, and AMA PDX is honoring the unique strengths neurodivergent individuals bring to marketing. We spoke with Trinity Bowen, a Portland State MBA student, who shared how her neurodivergence fuels creativity, pattern recognition, and problem-solving in her work. Trinity reminds us that inclusion goes beyond accommodations — it's about embracing different ways of thinking to build stronger, more innovative teams.

In the world of influencer marketing, smaller is getting smarter. This blog explores the growing power of micro (10k–100k followers) and nano (under 10k) influencers, who are winning over brands with their authenticity, high engagement rates, and niche audiences. Unlike their mega-famous counterparts, these influencers feel more like trusted friends than celebrities—making their recommendations more impactful and budget-friendly. For brands looking to build genuine connections without breaking the bank, micro and nano-influencers are the secret sauce to smarter, more relatable marketing.

In today’s digital world, video content remains one of the most powerful tools for engaging and converting audiences. Statistics show that 80% of internet traffic will be video by 2025, and 72% of consumers prefer learning about products through video. Video enhances engagement, builds trust, drives conversions, improves SEO, and is highly shareable, making it a crucial component of any marketing strategy. Whether through social media, YouTube, live streaming, or video ads, businesses can harness video to connect with audiences, increase brand visibility, and achieve measurable results.

The February 28, 2025, economic blackout highlighted concerns over corporate cuts to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) initiatives, encouraging consumers to support businesses that align with their values. Data from major companies like Target, Walmart, and Amazon showed declines in traffic, while Costco, known for its DEIA stance, saw a boost. This shift signals a growing consumer awareness about mindful spending and emphasizes the importance for marketers to align with values that matter to their audience.

Consumers today are becoming more conscious than ever, prioritizing sustainability in their purchasing decisions. Research shows that 76% of shoppers are willing to pay more for sustainable products, and they expect brands to be transparent, authentic, and innovative. As consumers increasingly value sustainability, businesses must engage with their audience and collaborate with like-minded organizations to stay relevant. By adopting sustainable marketing strategies, companies can build trust, stand out, and make a positive impact on both their brand and the world. It's not just a trend—it's the future of responsible marketing!

Building your personal brand is all about taking control of how the world sees you, whether you’re launching a new product or navigating a job search. To do it right, focus on authenticity, values, integrity, charisma, and trustworthiness—these are the cornerstones of a brand that resonates. Consistency is key, so know your audience, choose your platforms wisely, have a content strategy, and always engage with your community. And remember, building a personal brand is an ongoing process—monitor your results, adapt, and keep telling your story with confidence.

Gen Z (1997–2012) is a huge spending force, set to dominate consumer markets by 2030. They care about values like equity and sustainability, so brands need to walk the talk or get left behind. Forget flashy ads—Gen Z wants authenticity, simple messaging, and fun, engaging content, especially videos on TikTok and YouTube. Influencers and interactive campaigns (like polls or contests) are key to winning them over. Brands like Patagonia and Glossier shine by staying real and relatable.

Erica Dhawan's four principles of connectional intelligence can unlock new and unrealized value by maximizing the power of networks and relationships.

What is Intellectual Property? It can be blogs, logos, slogans, photographs, videos, theme songs, websites, you name it – if a creative was behind creating it, then it’s “IP.”