Michelle Gjerde to Speak at TREK: August 5 in Thief River Falls
Michelle Gjerde, owner of Propel Marketing, will be the featured speaker at TREK on Monday, August 5, from 8:30 to 9:30 AM at 102 Main Ave N, Thief River Falls.
A seasoned marketer with a passion for helping businesses grow, Michelle will share practical strategies that entrepreneurs can use to stand out in a crowded marketplace.
“I like to help companies figure out ways to grow, and that means marketing,” Michelle says. “Targeted marketing requires an understanding of who you are marketing to and what messages hit a nerve, or how you are going to attract customers.”
A Look Back: Lessons from Gateway 2000
Michelle’s marketing perspective is shaped by a unique and dynamic career path. After college, she began working for Gateway 2000 during the early days of the personal computer boom—a time when PCs were becoming common in every household across America.
Gateway distinguished itself from competitors like HP and Dell through imaginative and unconventional marketing campaigns.
“Gateway was a unique company in the way that they marketed their product, using whimsical imagery and creative campaigns. I will be sharing some of that with the TREK audience.”
The Power of Being Remarkable
At the heart of Michelle’s talk is a concept inspired by the bestselling Seth Godin book, The Purple Cow.
“The crux of what I will be sharing with the TREK audience is based on Seth Godin’s book, ‘The Purple Cow.’ The bottom line is how to differentiate. How to be known, recognized and remarkable.”
In an age when customers are bombarded with ads and content from every direction, standing out requires more than just consistency—it requires remarkability. Michelle will dive into what it means to be truly different in a way that captures attention and earns loyalty.
Navigating Today’s Noisy Marketing Landscape
The digital era has revolutionized marketing—but it’s also made it harder to break through.
“Marketing is very different today. While the internet has created new opportunities, it has also created a lot of noise that is difficult for businesses to break through and stand out.”
Michelle will explore how small businesses can cut through that noise with smart, intentional strategies that resonate with their ideal customers.
Build a Blueprint for Marketing Success
Michelle emphasizes the importance of having a marketing roadmap rather than chasing the latest trends or reacting without a plan.
“A blueprint for business is really a plan. I’m very passionate about taking time to build a strategy and a plan. What is the end outcome that we are going for?”
Many small business owners are strapped for time and tempted to do more without clear direction. Michelle urges a different approach:
“With companies being short on time, the temptation is to hammer out marketing. Instead, I encourage businesses to set goals, streamline their efforts, focus on their ideal customer and be more thoughtful in their marketing efforts. More isn’t always more.”
Who Should Attend
Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur, marketing wiz, or just launching your business idea, this TREK session is a can’t-miss opportunity to sharpen your strategy and leave with actionable ideas.
About TREK
TREK is a welcoming, informal monthly gathering for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and anyone with a business dream. Hosted over coffee and conversation, it’s a great place to learn, connect, and grow—together.
- No cost to attend
- No RSVP or attendance requirements
- Everyone is welcome
Come as you are. Leave inspired.
Let’s build momentum together—see you there!
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