5 Years at Searchmind: Meet our Manager, Client Strategy, Nikolaj Ølgaard
Nikolaj joined Searchmind booking meetings for our Business Developers. Five years later, he sits as Manager, Client Strategy, working closely with clients and their businesses.
On the occasion of his 5-year anniversary, we had a chat with Nikolaj about the journey, the humour, and what clients are looking for today.
From winning clients to working with them
How would you describe the journey from when you started 5 years ago to today?
"I started as a Business Coordinator, booking meetings for our Business Developers. From there I moved into a Business Developer role and now Manager, Client Strategy. So I've gone from acquiring clients to sitting with them."
What keeps you motivated and happy at work at Searchmind?
"Searchmind has given me room to grow and has been great at moving me up to the next level when needed. On top of that, there are some seriously fun colleagues — even though I'm obviously still the funniest person at Searchmind. And on the days when a client meeting really clicks, it all just makes sense."
Communication that reaches the person behind the screen
What is the biggest change in client needs over 5 years?
"Communication. Consumers have become far more discerning, and a single message no longer reaches everyone. What captures your attention in the morning isn't necessarily what captures it in the evening. That's why we work with far greater variation in messages, formats and creatives. At the same time, clients want to understand why we do what we do, and how AI is affecting their industry."
What milestones do you hope to have reached by your next anniversary?
"That we're even better at using AI and can be the human link between AI and the client. The more AI-generated content there is, the more important the authentic becomes. And I hope I'm still part of a Client Strategy team where we share knowledge and laugh together, with plenty of room to breathe and a good work-life balance."
From performance to the whole business
The conversation with clients has shifted significantly over five years, and that has changed Nikolaj's role.
What is the biggest change in clients' needs today compared to 5 years ago?
"Focus has shifted from tracking to profit, creative, and now AI. That's why I no longer talk to clients purely about classic performance marketing, but about their entire business and how each discipline contributes to the bigger picture."
What milestones do you hope to have reached by your next anniversary?
"I hope Searchmind is the strategic partner clients call first when they want to grow, and that we use AI and data to become sharper without losing the personal touch. Personally, I still hope to have the energy to stay curious and keep learning."
A huge thank you for the first 5 years!
A huge thank you, Nikolaj, for five years of drive, client focus, and plenty of laughs. Whether you're the funniest is an open question, but you've undoubtedly left your mark on Searchmind. We look forward to the next five years!
