Cigdem Oztabak on Her Marketing and Communication Consultant Company

Hi, Cigdem! Please share a brief introduction about yourself and your business:

Hi, I’m Cigdem. With over 21 years of experience in marketing and a fervent entrepreneurial spirit, I bring a comprehensive background in product marketing, communication, and content marketing focused on B2C mobile fintech app, B2B software sectors. Currently, I serve as a panel moderator for the SXSW 24 AI in Marketing panel and hold an O1 visa as a recognized marketing talent in U.S. My enterprise, Pirix.co, has successfully launched ‘Venture Miami,’ a platform that marries AI with a human touch to evaluate presentations of early-stage startups, underscoring our commitment to innovation and excellence in marketing. Pirix is a marketing and communication consultant company, which helps technology founders and startups with their brand positioning, go-to-market strategy, and PR.

My academic credentials include a Master’s degree in marketing with a focus on marketing communications, supplemented by advanced training in the field, and a micro MBA from NYU in Modern Journalism and Communication. In 2023, I was honored with the Stevie Awards Women in Business Marketer Coach of the Year and was recently appointed as a judge for the Stevie American Business Award 2024, affirming my expertise and contributions to the field. As a mentor to over 100 marketers, female STEM students, and young managers worldwide, I am deeply invested in nurturing the next generation of marketing professionals. I am also a fellow member of The Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) and an occasional contributor to the Harvard Business Review, Hackernoon where I discuss marketing innovations in technology.

Quite the impressive resume, Cigdem! What is the biggest challenge you have encountered along the way so far and what have you learned from it?

Moving to a foreign country and starting a business with your second language.

What accomplishment are the most proud of to date in your business?

I received my O1 marketing talent visa from the U.S,. and moderated a panel at SXSW24, which is a major marketing and technology event.

What’s next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

Helping 100 more founders to make them visible.

What is your approach to work-life balance/integration?

Setting clear boundaries and dedicating time each evening to plan for the next day. This allows me to stay organized and ensure that I allocate time for both professional responsibilities and personal well-being.

When hiring, what is your go-to interview question?

One of my go-to interview questions is, “Who inspires you professionally and why?” It provides insight into the candidate’s values and aspirations. Additionally, from my experience, always look for a cultural fit as much as for skills and experience; a person who aligns with your company’s ethos can grow into roles and contribute significantly to the team’s dynamic.

What’s the one app on your phone you absolutely cannot live without and why?

The one app I can’t live without on my phone is My Notes. It’s indispensable for capturing ideas, jotting down reminders, and organizing thoughts anytime, anywhere. It’s my go-to for ensuring nothing important slips through the cracks.

What is your favorite business tool or solution and why?

Gusto, Airtable, and Gamma App.

What advice do you have for aspiring Entreprenistas?

Build relationships, seek mentorship, and surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you.

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