How Marketing Leaders are Using AI to Better Understand Their Audience | Andrew Hulse of Huckle Insights

Marketing is changing fast. What worked ten years ago is no longer effective, and brands that don’t adapt risk being left behind.

In this episode of Marketing by Design, Andrew Hulse dives into the death of traditional outreach, the rise of AI-driven marketing, and why authenticity is now a competitive advantage.

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Key Insights from the Episode

1. Most People Fail at Networking—Here’s Why

Andrew shares a surprising statistic: Out of 125 students he’s mentored, only one reached out to leverage his network. The takeaway? If you don’t ask, you don’t get. Whether it’s for a job, a client, or an introduction, making the ask is essential in today’s competitive marketing world.

2. The Old Go-To-Market Playbook Is Dead

From 2012 to 2024, companies used predictable revenue models to scale fast. But email automation, AI-generated outreach, and saturated inboxes have changed the game. Marketers now need to focus on hyper-personalization, creativity, and quality over quantity to cut through the noise.

3. The Power of Authenticity in Marketing

Social media has given consumers a strong “smell test” for authenticity. Today, the brands and individuals who show up as their true selves build the deepest connections. Andrew explains how embracing authenticity—rather than curating a perfect image—creates more trust, engagement, and opportunities.

4. AI Is Reshaping Sales and Marketing

AI is at the 1997 internet stage—it’s still early, but its potential is massive. Andrew discusses how AI-driven intent marketing will soon allow brands to deliver 1:1 personalized ads based on micro-signals like location, sentiment, and browsing behavior. Marketers need to prepare now for the fundamental shift AI will bring to creative and campaign strategies.

5. Constraints Can Kill Creativity

Corporate marketing often restricts creativity by forcing ideas into pre-defined frameworks. Andrew explains how startups allow for more expansive thinking, while larger brands tend to stifle innovation with rigid structures. Marketers must learn to balance constraints with creative freedom to drive better results.

Final Thoughts

Marketing is evolving, and staying ahead means rethinking outreach, embracing authenticity, and preparing for AI-driven strategies. If you’re looking to cut through the noise, build better relationships, and future-proof your marketing approach, this episode is a must-listen.

Listen to the Full Episode

Marketing by Design Showpage

Connect with Andrew Hulse

• LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile
• Huckle Insights: HuckleInsights.com

Would love to hear your thoughts—how are you adjusting your marketing approach in 2024? Let us know in the comments!

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