My Experience at VeeCon: A Journey of Inspiration, Learning, and Community
Introduction: The Beginnings of a Journey
In the ever-evolving world of business and marketing, staying ahead of the curve is not just beneficial; it’s essential. My journey to VeeCon started about three years ago, when a close friend and colleague first introduced me to Gary Vaynerchuk, commonly known as Gary Vee. At the time, I was an executive at a mortgage company, tasked with the formidable challenge of growing both the company and our brand.
As anyone in the mortgage industry knows, the business is akin to riding a roller coaster, with its constant ups and downs. One moment, it’s a great time to buy a home; the next, the market is in flux, and we’re back to the drawing board. This unpredictability made it difficult for us to find our footing, especially when it came to marketing. While I knew that video marketing was important, I was the only one in our company willing to step into that role. Even then, I didn’t fully grasp just how critical this new age of marketing would become.
But, as Gary Vee often says, it’s never too late to start. This sentiment would become the cornerstone of my experience at VeeCon, where I was surrounded by a community of like-minded individuals, all eager to learn, share, and inspire each other. This blog is a reflection on that experience and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.
The Early Days: Dipping a Toe into Video Marketing
Back in 2021, amidst the turbulent waves of the mortgage industry, we decided to dabble in video marketing. We launched a campaign called “#ShiftHappens,” a playful nod to the market shift and the rising interest rates and home prices that were affecting everyone in the industry. The campaign was well-received, with our peers appreciating the humor we injected into an otherwise challenging situation.
Despite this initial success, we didn’t fully commit to this style of marketing. Looking back, I can see how we were hesitant, unsure of how to navigate this new terrain. We were caught in the push and pull of trying new things and then retreating to the safety of the basics. But what I’ve learned since then, and what was reinforced at VeeCon, is that the key to success in any business is not just about starting—it’s about sticking with it, learning from the process, and continuously evolving.
The VeeCon Experience: A Hub of Inspiration
Walking into VeeCon was like stepping into a different world—a world brimming with energy, creativity, and a palpable sense of community. The event was a melting pot of entrepreneurs, marketers, and creators from all walks of life, each with their own stories, struggles, and successes. For someone who had been navigating the mortgage industry’s tumultuous waters, this was a breath of fresh air.
The guest speakers at VeeCon were nothing short of phenomenal. Each one brought a unique perspective, but there was a common thread that ran through all their talks: the importance of starting, no matter where you are in your journey. This resonated deeply with me, especially when I reflected on my own hesitations with video marketing. Hearing these successful individuals share their stories of failure, perseverance, and eventual success was incredibly motivating.
The Power of Authenticity: Being True to Yourself and Your Brand
Another important lesson I learned at VeeCon was the power of authenticity. In today’s world, consumers are more savvy than ever, and they can spot inauthenticity from a mile away. Gary Vee and many of the other speakers emphasized the importance of being true to yourself and your brand. This means being honest about who you are, what you stand for, and what you’re trying to achieve.
Conclusion: A New Chapter Begins
Attending VeeCon was a transformative experience that broke me out of the small bubble I had been living in. For a long time, I believed that my audience was limited to the walls of my immediate environment—the people I knew and the industry I was familiar with. But VeeCon opened my eyes to the vast, vibrant community that exists beyond those walls. It was a powerful reminder that there’s a world full of opportunities and connections waiting to be made.
One of the most important lessons I learned at VeeCon is that every successful person has written their own story, often starting from a place of uncertainty and doubt, just like I did. The key is to step out of your comfort zone, embrace the unknown, and take control of your narrative. I’m thankful I attended because it reminded me that I’m not alone in this journey. There’s a community out there ready to support, inspire, and learn from each other.
As I move forward, I’m excited to write my own story with renewed confidence and a broader perspective. The possibilities are endless, and I’m eager to see where this journey takes me next.
