Exploring Life & Business with Ricardo McCoy of McCoy Advertising Specialties, LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ricardo McCoy

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
With over 30 years of diverse professional experience across retail, sales, customer service, product planning, marketing, and analytics, I’ve enjoyed each chapter of my career. In October 2023, I embarked on a transformative journey by stepping away from the corporate world to fully embrace my passions for adjunct teaching and entrepreneurship. This bold move has allowed me to spend more time as an adjunct professor, lecturer, and business owner while exploring other interest.

This career shift has been a whirlwind of opportunity and growth. Through consulting engagements, I assist small and medium-sized businesses in enhancing their brand awareness and boosting their profitability. Each business presents unique challenges and aspirations, and I thrive on crafting tailored strategies to meet their needs.

In my role as an adjunct professor, I instruct a range of courses in marketing, analytics, and e-commerce at multiple institutions. This role has granted me the privilege of engaging with students both domestically and internationally. For instance, I teach Haitian students online, creating a vibrant virtual classroom that fosters dynamic learning. Meeting these students in person during their graduation ceremonies in the U.S. is particularly rewarding, as I celebrate their achievements and witness their transition from virtual learners to real-world professionals. The joy and pride on their faces as they receive their diplomas is a highlight of my career.

Additionally, my experience as a guest lecturer in China for 14 days was profoundly enriching. Immersing myself in a new cultural and academic environment, I had the privilege of sharing my expertise with both faculty and students. This experience allowed me to explore and discuss emerging trends in marketing and business, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas and broadening my perspective on global educational practices and the importance of having a global mindset.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of my primary challenges is maintaining focus amidst numerous responsibilities. While I consider myself adept at time management, the real difficulty lies in learning to say “no” and understanding the true value of my time. It’s essential to prioritize goals and objectives, even when faced with well-intentioned requests for guidance. Additionally, I’ve learned that perfection is not always achievable or necessary. My strong work ethic often leads me to be my own harshest critic, but I’ve come to appreciate the importance of balancing hard work with moments of fun and self-compassion.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
In my role as a marketing, analytics, and branding consultant, I specialize in helping small and medium-sized businesses enhance their brand presence. I focus on providing affordable yet effective promotional products and marketing solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs. This personalized approach ensures that businesses not only stand out in a crowded market but also achieve tangible results.

Additionally, I serve as a marketing consultant for Oakland Thrive, a strategic partner of the Oakland County Government. This role is particularly fulfilling as it allows me to contribute to the economic vitality of Oakland County. By collaborating with local businesses and community leaders, I work to foster a thriving, inclusive economy that supports entrepreneurial growth and innovation. This partnership aligns with my values of community engagement and economic development, making my work with Oakland Thrive both impactful and rewarding.

Alongside my consulting work, I serve as an adjunct professor at various institutions. In this capacity, I teach courses in data analytics, marketing, public relations, e-commerce, and consumer behavior. Each class presents an opportunity to inspire and educate students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and succeed in the ever-evolving business landscape. My teaching extends beyond traditional classroom settings, allowing me to connect with students from different cultures and backgrounds, further enriching the educational experience.

What matters most to you?
What truly matters to me is the impact I can have on others’ lives and their success. Helping people achieve their goals—whether it’s empowering business owners to strengthen their brand, supporting students in reaching their educational milestones, or volunteering my time and expertise to those in need—provides me with a profound sense of fulfillment. I believe I got this trait of helping others from my mother who was employed as a social worker for over 30 years.

I believe that when you prioritize others’ success and contribute to their growth, you create a ripple effect of positive change. Whether it’s through a well-executed marketing strategy, a moment of encouragement for a student, or a selfless act of service, the rewards come not just from achieving specific outcomes but from the meaningful connections and shared successes along the way. This mindset drives me to continuously seek opportunities to make a difference and to approach each endeavor with dedication and a genuine desire to help others thrive.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://mccoyadvertisingspecialties.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mccoyadvertisingspecialties/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/McCoyAdvertisingSpecialties/