Building Trust and Authenticity in Digital Marketing: Insights from Attention Trading

In this interview, we sit down with Max Lowy and Steve Alves, the owners of Attention Trading, a digital marketing and consulting agency specializing in creating custom solutions for small businesses. Max and Steve share their passion for helping entrepreneurs grow, discuss what marketing means to them, and offer valuable insights into how small business owners can maximize their marketing efforts. Read on to discover their tips for success, a standout success story, and where they see the future of marketing heading.

1. Can you briefly introduce yourself and what you do for those who may not be familiar with your work? 

We are Max and Steve, Owners of Attention Trading. Attention Trading is a full-service digital marketing and consulting agency that creates custom solutions and head-turning digital experiences. 

2. What inspired you to get started in your field, and what continues to drive your passion? 

This is simple. We LOVE small businesses! The idea that we can help entrepreneurs grow and scale their business through marketing/operations and coaching is so cool. Our clients and customers become our partners and friends and all we want is for them to be successful! 

3. What does Marketing mean to you and why does it matter? 

Marketing, to us, is a multi-dimensional endeavor, where all the pieces come together to create something more impactful than the sum of its parts. However, at its core, it truly boils down to a few fundamental principles

• Belief in the Product or Service
• Authentic Message to the Target Audience
• Optimized Use of Time and Budget
• Prioritizing Our Client's Best Interests

Ultimately, marketing is about building trust and delivering value—creating an experience that resonates deeply and authentically with those we aim to reach. 

4. What are the top 3-5 tips you’d give a small business owner who is looking for marketing support? What should they know about KPIS, Budget & Tracking Analytics?

 Look for a real partner - there are so many agencies out there that over promise and under deliver.  The common phrase you will hear is “We are different, we are data driven”. It’s 2024, everyone is data driven. Find a partner that listens and thinks through problems with you. Ask for references and case studies. Also remember experience is great as long as its good experience. 

5. Can you share a success story or a favorite moment from your work that really stands out to you? 

We partnered with a company specializing in HVAC and Air Balancing. While this industry is rooted in both engineering and blue-collar work and may not seem particularly glamorous, it stands out more for its service and efficiency than for product differentiation. With this in mind, we focused on key strengths: the skill of their team, a commitment to ongoing training and certification, and a willingness to invest in their people. This approach allowed us to elevate the brand by highlighting how the company’s deep care for its employees translates directly to faster, better service and an overall superior product.

With these core principles established, we then brought their brand visuals to the next level. We crafted a beautifully designed and high-performing web experience for both their main company and sister brand. Their websites now not only look and function seamlessly but are optimized for search engines—and more importantly, for people. They cater to those seeking quality service and those interested in joining a company that values its team. A true win-win. 

6. Where do you see your niche heading in the next few years? Will marketing continue like it is or will it change? 

Marketing has changed dramatically over the years. Our agency does a lot more than just marketing/advertising campaigns. We dive deep into the business goals and create alignment for the marketing to make sense. I believe that agencies will have to take a more holistic approach to the overall business to see success in the future.

7. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, and how has it impacted your journey? 

The best piece of advice that we have had is that No one has the answers. Everyone has an idea and most people will never act on the idea because of the fear of failing. You just need to start. Put something out into the world and see what happens. Becoming vulnerable and putting your service or product out there and seeing how the market reacts is everything. 

8. How can people connect with you or learn more about your work?  

People can connect with us everywhere lol :) Our website is www.AttentionTrading.com we are social handles are: 

Linkedin: Max Lowy , Steve Alves , Attention Trading

Instagram: @attentiontrading 

TikTok: @attentiontrading

Schedule a call : https://calendly.com/max-attention-trading/30-min-meeting-with-max