Humble Beginnings

My first thought when I started applying for placements was, "What kind of industry do I want to be in?". Over the course of the next few months, I would search and stumble upon a little company called The Brand Hierarchy. Interestingly enough, it was not through Curtin's business search or an intern-search site, but rather through word of mouth.

The Brand Hierarchy (TBH), as I found, is a small marketing and PR company which was started just over a year ago by Director, Karlee Trout. TBH specializes in promoting small businesses and achieving sustainable growth. One thing I have discovered working at TBH is how personalised the company is, and how it aims to achieve a partnership rather than play a traditional consultant role with clients and other businesses. In particular, the relationship that Karlee has established with a neighbouring advertising agency, The Globe, allows for both companies to gain business from potential and existing clients, due to their relevance in similar fields and client needs (PR and Marketing). One good example is Tasker's Living, with TBH handling all PR related aspects and The Globe being responsible for all print design.

I have been lucky enough to be have to opportunity to be part of the beginnings of a small business rather than a big established company, which many people do not have the chance to experience. Since TBH is still a small company, I can understand that there are many obstacles that it faces regarding time, budget, and ethics. Not only that, but larger competition such as Concept Marketing or 3AM Thoughts may attract more potential customers. However, as stated previously, TBH has a specialised niche market that it caters to - which may attract a market that would not think to approach large-scale marketing and PR companies.

The latest project that I have been working on is for the client "Places with Pets" (PWP) - an application that is to be launched early this year. I have been responsible for compiling lists which, although may not be enjoyable, I know will be a part of something big that I have personally contributed to. I have also been tasked with gaining an understanding of the target market and public sphere of our client - which has proven to be quite interesting.

All in all it has been an interesting first few weeks and I am looking forward to seeing what The Brand Hierarchy has to offer!

Wendy Wang
1615 9260