How to strengthen your insights team’s reputation with Emily Paladino

In this episode of "Now That's Significant, a market research podcast," host Michael Howard delves into the world of customer insights with Emily Paladino, the Group Head of Customer Insights at Country Road Group, a leading Australian specialty fashion retailer. With over two decades of experience in consumer-led marketing across various sectors, Emily brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation, focusing on the crucial yet often overlooked aspects of building and nurturing high-performing customer insights teams within a client-side organization. 

Amongst other things, the episode unpacks five key takeaways for aspiring insights professionals:

Building a high-performing team is crucial

Emily emphasizes that a successful insights team is not merely a collection of skilled individuals but a cohesive unit bound by shared values. When assembling a team, prioritize cultural fit, seeking individuals who embody qualities like hard work, integrity, and a genuine willingness to support one another. This foundation of shared values, coupled with a blend of experience and intelligence, creates a team capable of navigating challenges and achieving remarkable outcomes.

Demonstrating the ROI of insights is an ongoing endeavor

Emily underscores that proving the value of insights is not a one-off task but rather a continuous process of showcasing the team's impact. Aligning projects with overarching business objectives is paramount, ensuring that each initiative delivers tangible results that resonate with key decision-makers. Building strong relationships with stakeholders across different departments is equally crucial, fostering buy-in and demonstrating the tangible value the insights team brings to the table.

Strategic projects can be game-changers

Drawing from her own experience, Emily highlights the transformative power of strategic projects. She cites a market segmentation project at Country Road Group that became a pivotal moment for the team. This initiative not only addressed critical business objectives like growth but also served as a powerful testament to the team's expertise, solidifying their reputation as strategic partners within the organization.

Mentorship and empowerment are essential

Emily champions a leadership style rooted in mentorship and empowerment. She believes in providing team members with ample opportunities to shine, whether presenting their findings, taking on leadership roles, or developing their personal brands within the organization. This approach not only nurtures individual growth but also cultivates a stronger, more capable team overall.

Networking and external engagement are invaluable

Emily encourages insights professionals to expand their horizons beyond the confines of their immediate work environment. Participating in industry conferences, forging connections with peers, and seeking learning opportunities outside the organization can provide fresh perspectives, broaden their knowledge base, and open doors to new and exciting possibilities.

Tune in to this insightful episode of "Now That's Significant" to gain a deeper understanding of building and leading high-impact customer insights teams. Don't forget to explore other enriching episodes of the podcast, available on all major podcast platforms.