"Vision is the Art of Seeing What is Invisible to Others" - A Chat with Maryam Ehsan

From an aspiring writer to the dynamic founder and CEO of Market Pro, Maryam Ehsan's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Under her visionary leadership, Market Pro has become a trendsetter in digital marketing, revolutionizing the industry with cutting-edge strategies. Her influence soared to new heights at Gitex Africa 2024, where she captivated over 500 startups and entrepreneurs with her insights and expertise. Driven by an unyielding passion for creative autonomy and innovative leadership, Maryam Ehsan continues to propel Market Pro to unprecedented global success.

Can you tell our readers about your background?

I’m based in the vibrant city of Lahore. My journey started with a Bachelor's in Accounting and Finance from Kinnaird College, followed by a Master's in Banking and Financial Economics from Government College Lahore. I started as a Content Writer lead at Programmers Force and, within a short span, became the CEO and founder of Market Pro - a marketing company known for its diverse clients and innovative campaigns. 

For the past decade, I've immersed myself in the dynamic world of marketing, where I've had the privilege of working alongside passionate marketers. All in all, my passion for numbers and creativity drives me to find unique solutions in the ever-evolving marketing landscape.

What inspired you to start your business?

As a child, I was always inquisitive and had a deeply curious mind that wanted to explore. I was always asking questions and eager to learn about the world around me. This curiosity led me to join the debating community in school and college, where I honed my skills in critical thinking and persuasive communication. Participating in debates not only satisfied my thirst for knowledge but also sparked my interest in leadership and strategy.

My passion for business was further reinforced when I participated in Kinnaird College Business Week 2017 and won. This experience cemented my desire to one day lead my own company. The thrill of developing innovative solutions and the satisfaction of seeing them come to fruition fueled my ambition.

After college, I joined Programmers Force, where I quickly rose to the position of Team Lead. In this role, I realized how rewarding it was to have creative autonomy and to lead a team toward achieving common goals. The freedom to implement my ideas and the responsibility of guiding a team were incredibly fulfilling.

All these experiences culminated in my decision to become the founder and CEO of Market Pro. My journey from a curious child to a debating enthusiast, a business competition winner, and a team lead has shaped my vision for Market Pro. Today, I am dedicated to revolutionizing digital marketing with innovative strategies and a passionate team.

Where is your business based?

Our marketing company, Market Pro is based in the heart of Lahore, specifically in Johar Town. While our roots are firmly planted in this beautiful city, our client base extends far beyond. We proudly serve both national and international clients, bringing innovative marketing solutions to businesses around the globe.

We are a team of more than 100 passionate individuals including 40 plus content writers and SEO writers, 10 social media experts, PPC managers, project coordinators, graphic designers and content strategists. Moreover, my team is comprised of an equal ratio of men and women to ensure diversity and inclusivity. 

How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took?

In 2021, I, along with a small team of 12 passionate individuals, founded Market Pro. We started modestly by renting a co-working space at TechHub. Our initial team included a few content writers, PPC managers, and SEO experts. With just one client, we focused on delivering exceptional service, ensuring that our clients' voices were central to their marketing campaigns. Our priority was always to put our clients first, and this commitment has been the cornerstone of our growth and success.

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business?

The most effective way of raising awareness for Market Pro has been through a strong social media and LinkedIn presence. We consistently engage with our audience and industry leaders by regularly sending press releases and newsletters. Recently, I had the opportunity to represent Market Pro at Gitex Africa 2024, where I connected with over 500 startups and entrepreneurs. This exposure has significantly boosted our visibility and credibility in the industry.

What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?

One of my biggest personal challenges was starting my entrepreneurial journey while also becoming a first-time mother. Balancing the demands of motherhood and building a business from the ground up was incredibly challenging. However, overcoming these hurdles has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

Professionally, one major challenge was onboarding new clients and building trust as a new player in the industry. Gaining credibility took time and persistence. Additionally, moving from a co-working space to a full-time office required significant resources. However, as our client list expanded, we managed to overcome these obstacles and grow our business successfully.

How do you stay focused?

Staying focused as a CEO of a large team is a bit like herding cats with a megaphone! I rely on a combination of strong coffee and a meticulously organized to-do list. I set clear goals and take strategic breaks to recharge. To keep the team energized and motivated, I often mix in creative brainstorming sessions and celebrate small victories with quirky team rituals. Balancing the many moving parts of leadership is challenging, but a touch of humour and a lot of caffeine keeps me sharp and on track.

How do you differentiate your business from the competition?

We differentiate Market Pro from the competition through our commitment to data-driven and innovative marketing techniques. We use the latest strategies, including AI-powered analytics, programmatic advertising, and advanced customer segmentation, to craft highly effective campaigns. Our approach ensures that every decision is backed by solid data and cutting-edge technology.

Moreover, the success of our business hinges on the well-being of our team. I prioritise work-life balance by offering flexible timings, a vibrant office culture, and remote work options. By fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment, I ensure that our team remains motivated and productive, which translates into exceptional results for our clients.

What has been your most effective marketing strategy for growing your business?

Our most effective marketing strategy has been actively participating in global events like Gitex Africa 2024. These high-profile events have significantly expanded Market Pro's client base by connecting us with a wide range of potential clients and industry leaders. Additionally, we've been using technical content such as whitepapers and ebooks to establish ourselves as thought leaders in the industry. This approach not only showcases our expertise but also attracts clients who value in-depth, innovative insights.

What's your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?

Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted to try out different things and take on challenges head-on- something that has helped me remarkably in my entrepreneurial journey. This adventurous spirit has shaped my approach to entrepreneurship. 

Here are my best three pieces of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs: first, embrace Risk with Caution. Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks. Evaluate your options, and make bold decisions with a solid plan in place. Risks are opportunities in disguise, but they should be approached with thoughtful preparation. Second, never stop learning. The business world is ever-changing. Stay curious, keep learning, and adapt to new trends and technologies. But on top of that, I urge you to be empathetic humans and leaders that inspire. Being a great leader isn’t just about achieving results. It’s about inspiring and supporting your team. Create a positive work environment, lead with empathy, and listen to your team’s needs. Never be afraid to lead from the heart. 

What's your favourite app, blog, and book? Why?

My favourite app is LinkedIn because it allows me to connect with fellow leading entrepreneurs and marketers. It’s an invaluable platform for networking and staying updated on industry trends.

When it comes to content, I prefer podcasts over blogs. One of my favourites is "The Diary of a CEO" by Steven Bartlett. His discussions on diverse topics, from AI’s impact to democratic leadership styles, offer insightful perspectives and inspiration.

For reading, I dive into a mix of professional growth books and classic novels. While I read extensively for professional development, I enjoy classic novels like The Great Gatsby and A Tale of Two Cities in my personal time. As a guilty pleasure, I always find time for Jane Austen’s timeless works.

What's your favourite business tool or resource? Why?

My favourite business tool is project management software. It’s essential for keeping me and my team organized and on track. These tools help us streamline tasks, manage deadlines efficiently, and ensure that every project runs smoothly. By providing a clear overview of ongoing tasks and responsibilities, we can collaborate effectively and maintain transparency with our clients. 

This way, our clients are always up-to-date with our strategies and progress. The ability to track projects in real-time and assign tasks helps us stay agile and responsive, ultimately enhancing productivity and client satisfaction.

Who is your business role model? Why?

I don't have a single role model; instead, I draw inspiration from various ethical business leaders, each known for their unique traits. For example, I look up to Oprah for her resilience and kindness, which guides me in maintaining compassion and determination in my journey. Additionally, I follow my mentor, S.M. Khurram, for his expertise in risk management, learning to navigate business challenges with wisdom and prudence. By combining the strengths of these leaders, I aim to cultivate a well-rounded approach to leadership, embracing resilience, kindness, and strategic risk management in my role at Market Pro.

How do you balance work and life?

Balancing work and life is like juggling a pizza, a passport, and a calendar- so you can imagine what it's like juggling the life of a CEO and a full-time mother. But, I’m passionate about my work, so it never really feels like work—it’s something I enjoy as much as my other favourite things. I love travelling, cooking on weekends, and hanging out with friends. 

Drawing a fine line between work and life is key. When I feel great, it positively impacts my team. I ensure to blend these passions into my routine, keeping both my professional and personal life vibrant. My advice? Find what makes you happy and integrate it seamlessly into your life. Enjoy the journey and savour every moment!

What’s your favourite way to decompress?

My favourite way to decompress is by spending quality time with my son and family. Whether it’s a weekend outing, a family dinner, or just relaxing at home, these moments bring me immense joy and help me recharge. 

I cherish this time not only for relaxation but also to inspire my son to become a good human being and a gentleman as he grows. I love teaching him the value of the little things early on, making sure he understands what truly matters. It’s a meaningful way to unwind while contributing to his growth and development.

What do you have planned for the next six months?

In the next six months, Market Pro will focus on onboarding both local and international clients. After connecting with a diverse range of potential clients at Gitex Africa, I plan to expand our reach further at the upcoming Gitex Dubai. We’re also gearing up to grow our team, bringing on more strategists to better serve our diverse clientele. On a personal note, I aim to enhance my personal branding to advance my dream of becoming a global influencer. It’s an exciting time with ambitious plans to elevate both the company and my own professional journey.

How can our readers connect with you?

Readers can connect with me through LinkedIn, visit our company’s website at Marketpro.ai, or follow us on social media. I’m always eager to help established brands and startups, regardless of their size uplift their marketing strategies. Feel free to reach out—let’s explore how we can collaborate and achieve great results together.

Maryam Ehsan’s Linkedin: https://pk.linkedin.com/in/maryamehsan

Company’s Website: https://marketpro.ai/

LinkedIn: https://pk.linkedin.com/company/marketproltd

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marketproltd/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marketproltd/