C-Suite Network Radio

C-Suite Network Radio


Business Matters | Episode 4: Carolyn Everson

October 07, 2014

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When we think of the world’s most innovative companies, tech giants and social media trailblazers are at the forefront of our minds. These businesses are revered not only for their world-changing products and services, but also for their unique and flourishing company cultures. A company like Facebook nourishes its top talent by building its extraordinarily special culture around a core mission. When all employees deeply support their company’s goals and feel that what they do makes a true impact on society, groundbreaking ideas will surface. And as consumer expectations grow and habits rapidly change, the importance of a strong, accountable team is essential for delivering outstanding customer experiences.


MoreThis week’s guest has had a remarkable career serving in leadership positions at some of the world’s most successful companies, including Disney, MTV and Microsoft. Carolyn Everson now works as the Vice President of Global Marketing Solutions at Facebook where she is known as the ad chief who has played a crucial role in changing the way advertisers and marketers view the social network.

Carolyn recognizes that consumers are surrounded by more advertisements than ever before. Messages are delivered through every screen, sign and billboard. Today’s brands are faced with the challenge of reaching customers through such saturation, and businesses are learning that personalization is key to getting their messages heard. People crave connections and experiences that are not only tailored to their needs but also delivered in creative and inspired ways. Facebook has become a leader in delivering such experiences to its users through advancements in video integration and a mobile-first approach. When content is relevant to the consumer, and they can clearly see the value it adds to their life, brand awareness and loyalty will increase. A focus on privacy and transparency is an absolute must for businesses to build loyal customers and effectively sell their products and services.


Each and every employee at Facebook believes connectivity is a human right, Carolyn says, and the company strives to connect people all across the globe. Facebook works hard to leave an impact on society that goes beyond day-to-day operations. Internally, there is no hierarchy, and the company works hard to eliminate politics and encourage employees to have accountability at every level of the organization. There is a focus on constant improvement, and a common saying around the office is “What would you do if you weren’t afraid?†Not a day goes by where employees aren’t challenging themselves to do things differently.


“The notion of constant improvement and exceptional performance is built into the culture day in and day out,†Carolyn says.


More companies today are seeing the value social media plays in their business, not only from a brand awareness standpoint, but also in getting their products in the hands of customers. Social networks play a significant role in consumers’ day-to-day lives, and it is up to C-Suite leaders to support cultures that inspire innovation and put customer needs and concerns at the forefront. Becoming as successful as Facebook requires a core mission each and every team member can stand behind.
Carolyn Everson

Carolyn Everson is the Vice President of Global Marketing Solutions at Facebook. Everson previously served as the Corporate VP of Microsoft’s Global Advertising Sales and Trade Marketing Teams and led the company’s advertising business across Bing, MSN, Windows Live, Mobile, Gaming, Atlas and the Microsoft Media Network. She was COO and Executive VP of U.S. Ad Sales for MTV Networks. Fortune put Everson on the 40 under 40 list twice; she was also inducted into the prestigious Hall of Achievement by the AAF and acknowledged with the Reisenbach Foundation Distinguished Citizen Award. Everson graduated summa cum laude from Villanova University and obtained her master’s degree from Harvard where she was a Baker Scholar.


 


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