In this mini episode we talk image-perception gap-- a concept that is central to our empathy-led branding framework. There's a gap that exists between image (our internal understanding of our brands) and perception (how the brand is actually perceived externally). At grio, we believe that branding is the art and science of closing this image-perception gap. First, we have to be clear about who are as a company because only then can we have a shot at shaping and influencing others' perception. Next, we have to deploy enough empathy to understand how people form their perception.  

At grio, we believe that success in business ultimately depends on our ability connect with the people we seek to serve-- both inside and outside our companies. And connecting with others requires empathy.  In this episode, our guest Todd Buelow, co-founder of a Charlotte-based software company called Dualboot Partners, talks about the power of human connection to help build great software and great companies.

In this episode we explore a question we get asked all the time at grio: why empathy? Our answer is always that business is fundamentally about people. And success hinges on our ability to connect with various stakeholders-- inside and outside our companies. Through this lens, empathy is therefore very practical and fundamental to business. 

In this first episode, we had an amazing conversation with Christopher Sottile, the founder and owner of The Loyalist Market-- A cut-to-order cheese and charcuterie shop offering over 60 artisan cheeses and cured meats from the US and abroad, along with artisan food products from the best producers the South has to offer.   The Loyalist stands for loyal to organic/high quality food and local suppliers; loyal to customers, employees and the community at large.  Loyalty is one of marketing's most coveted prizes and Chris walked us through what he thinks are the secret ingredient of earning the loyalty of those you seek to serve.   1. Always put people first. Don't make it transactional. Make it about creating relationships 2. Be authentic: do what you said you would even when it's inconvenient. Be consistent with it.  3. Be transparent: to build community you need let people in. Building a business is a process of co-creation. 4. Be a force for good-- for employees, customers and the community 5. Focus on building a strong culture. Have a team approach. Find the right people, who understand and share the vision, mission and values.  Culture builders.  Let us know what you thought about the episode.  And if you really loved it and want to to support us, please subscribe and leave us a review.