Agency founder and Managing Director Mark Haslam, speaks about his proudest accomplishments, the lessons learned along the way and the memories he’s made with his team over the last 10 years.

As the agency marks its 10th anniversary, multi-award winning digital performance marketing agency Loud Mouth Media is reflecting on its decade in the industry and how it has helped businesses all over the world in a variety of sectors grow and innovate through strategic marketing campaigns.

So, in a world that is now so digitally-focused and relies so heavily on technology and the support of professionals like yourself, what is the one thing you’ve always wanted to achieve?

Our purpose has always been to make waves in the industry. I want to do more than what people think is possible, and I don’t want to do what others are doing. I’ve always wanted to do more, to be different, and not be or do what others expect. That goes for my team, for my clients, and everything – push the limits.

If there was one thing you would say you’re the most proud of from your 10 years growing Loud Mouth Media, what would that be?

There have been loads of moments I’ve been proud of. The key things that stand out are when the team’s personal lives have benefitted and extended because of Loud Mouth. Whether it be seeing major life events like babies or buying boats and dream cars – when work is more than a job it helps facilitate that happiness.

If you could give the Mark of 10 years ago any advice on business, what would it be?

Listen more. A key lesson has been to let other people feed into the business success. Brand is made up of everyone on the team, and it’s been learning to listen to others, to let them guide the business, and to be agile.

Why is team culture so important to you?

It’s an approach I’ve taken based on my background. I still remember what it’s like to work those jobs where you’re only as good as your last sale or your last success, and I want to avoid that at all costs. You spend too much time at work to not enjoy it, and the people and atmosphere around you.

I realised early on that we spend more time at work than with family – so it needs to be a positive, productive environment, and we need to learn from one another. We’re stronger together and can achieve so much more. Then everyone wins!

How do you juggle offices across the UK, and still prioritise client relationships?

My belief has always been this: it doesn’t matter where you are, it’s about whether you can do the job. We don’t choose our office locations based on clients or being around the corner from leads, we want to be in the right locations for our staff and ensure we’re offering opportunities. Client successes will come from having the right minds on the team, the right knowledge pool, and the right colleagues motivating one another.

We work with clients all over the world, from Dubai to New Zealand, from the USA to Europe. I’m a strong believer that if we have a phone and a laptop, we can do business.

What’s your secret to engaging staff?

It’s not really a secret, but treat people like people. Treat them with respect, understand why we’re all working, and realise that we all make up a brand and drive business success. You need to trust them implicitly, hire good people, hire hard workers, and then see them develop.

Over the years of Loud Mouth Media, what are some stand out memories?

Things like my first client, first hire, and making it through our first year were great. But what never becomes less significant for me is people accepting job offers, because it shows that people want to join the brand and make an impact. Loud Mouth’s growth over the years has been so exciting, and seeing the business expand, specialisms grow, and the team develop are the things that stand out most to me in 10 years.

Where do you see the business going in the next 10 years? (Any big dreams, plans?)

The plans are to keep growing – but to grow in the right way. We don’t have a set number to achieve, but we want to bring in the right people and develop in the right ways. Both in specialisms and numbers.

I also want to open more offices around the world, to both offer the staff more opportunities, but to also allow flexibility for the team. I want the team to have ownership of their career, and have the opportunity to keep growing with Loud Mouth Media.

What advice would you give someone starting their own business today?

Just do it. Just get it done. If you believe in the idea, you’ve done your research, you’ve spoken to experts, and you feel it could work. Do it. Don’t be afraid of failure.

If you’re sensible, scale appropriately, and don’t put all your eggs in one basket, it will be worth it. If you fail, get back up on that horse. It’s all part of the journey!

What advice would you give to someone looking to develop their online brand?

Be patient. Everybody in this world wants everything yesterday. There is a need for instant gratification, everything in our lives is more urgent. Just stop, take a breath and be patient.

Also, be more realistic with your goals and take your time. Hiccups will come, stick to the plan, and keep going.

What advice would you give to someone struggling to get results online/feel marketing techniques ‘didn’t work’ for their business?

Realism is key. Always approach digital as if you were opening up a shop. What would be realistic in terms of budgets, results, sales, etc. You need to have the right product at the right time and to be at the right place. That’s it. Put the customer first and always have in sight what they want and need.