This week we will focus on what I consider are the attributes that make for a successful digital strategist. I believe these can be grouped into 2 distinct sets; the work experience and the personal attributes, including attitude and work style. 

In previous episodes we have defined what we mean by a digital strategy and how to start building one out by highlighting the questions we need answered in order to do so. Today we are going to change gears and focus on the practitioners themselves. What is the role of the digital strategist, whether in an agency environment or working in-house for a brand?

Designing a digital strategy can seem like a daunting task, especially when you consider all the moving pieces you need to integrate, the complexity and dynamism of the media and the changing demands of the various stakeholders. The best way to achieve this is to break it down to a series of digestible sections and steps. In each one, we will focus on answering specific questions. And that is where the digital strategist lives, in a series of questions that seem very straightforward, but are often overlooked in the rush to execution.

AdWords strategy. Display strategy. Social strategy. Facebook strategy.

Are these in fact strategies or are they something else entirely?

Let’s start by defining what we mean by a digital strategy. I think this is necessary because in spite of the fact that it is a term that is overused; I believe there is a lack of understanding as to what constitutes a strategy.