April 2020
Last week, I had the nerve-wracking experience of being interviewed on BBC One before the national COVID-19 daily briefing. It was a tremendous learning opportunity that has sparked numerous questions. In response, I wanted to share my experience and address some of the main inquiries I've received.
How it happened:
The BBC reached out to me earlier in the week, having my details from a previous interview. They asked if I would discuss Gymshark's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our business. After consulting with our PR agency and colleagues at Gymshark, we agreed it was a valuable opportunity to feature on UK television.
The day before the interview, I had a briefing with a BBC staff member. They outlined the interview's subject and explained that the presenter could ask any relevant questions, preparing me for an open discussion. Additionally, I had a preparatory call with our PR agency, focusing on ensuring I presented well on TV and mentally preparing for the live interview. This practice session was invaluable in calming my nerves and honing my ability to respond to unexpected questions.
On the interview day, I connected with the BBC via Skype about 30 minutes beforehand. They ensured my setup was adequate, although not being able to see the interviewer made it challenging to gauge their reactions during the interview.
Despite my nerves, once the interview began, I found it enjoyable. I appreciated the questions and consider the experience one I'll cherish for years to come. It has inspired me to seek more interview opportunities for personal growth and to contribute to Gymshark's journey towards becoming a leading global brand.
I extend my gratitude to everyone at the BBC for their support throughout the process, making it a rewarding experience.
Brief thoughts on the future of retail:
Following the interview, many have asked for my insights on the future of retail. I believe that in the coming years, the most successful global brands will be purpose-led and community-focused, clearly defining their values and role in the world.
Previously, the retail growth model centered on mass production and distribution through third-party retailers, resulting in large, slow-moving brands with broad product ranges lacking purpose. However, direct-to-consumer, purpose-led brands have emerged, offering agility and community engagement, driving superior customer experiences and more focused product portfolios.
I'm passionate about exploring this topic further in a future article, aiming to provide insights that may benefit others and motivate my ongoing writing endeavors.