Think Unconventionall
Think Unconventionall

We are Think Unconventionall, a group of people who still value the power of human collaboration in a world trying desperately to replace it. Think of us as your expert link between the CEO and the sales & marketing teams, helping you to invest in your people, without the headache of expensive, full-time employees. We provide the right support to the people who need it most, using effective social media management and attention-grabbing digital marketing strategies to help connect the dots between 2 departments that must function as one for the greatest results.

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Fractional CMO Program

The Fractional CMO Program

Is sales & marketing a number one priority in your business? Would you like it to be? Hiring an expensive CMO or Marketing Director might not be on the agenda, which is why our Fractional CMO Program could be the way forward. Our founder has worked in the sales & marketing world since he was 16 years old (which is a very long time). With experience in both the retail and digital sectors, his grasp on the way people engage online will help you connect the dots between two teams that MUST function as one for the greatest results. We can be as involved as you need. From one to three days a week, with as much access as you feel comfortable providing.

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Sales & Marketing coaching

Hands on Support for Ambitious CEOs

If sales & marketing feel like a minefield, then you would almost certainly benefit from a second pair of impartial eyes on your business. Spend more than five minutes online, and you will walk away with a hundred different opinions on how to run your business. We help you cut through that noise and create a plan specific to your individual circumstances.

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Social Media Management

Creative Social Media Management for Businesses

Effective social media management is essential for ensuring that your target buyer can find you on the web. The team at Think Unconventionall has been doing this for years. Creating powerful, thought-provoking content that helps build your industry authority while ensuring you become memorable for the right reasons.

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Remember When People Wrote Cool Stuff?

Sometimes, you need human-led stories delivered straight to your inbox, away from the chaos of social media. Snippets of sales & marketing sorcery that you can kick back and enjoy when the time comes to finally relax. If this sounds right up your street, and you’d like to read stuff that is still written by real people, then join the Unconventionall crew today.

We Are Unconventionall
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The Most Inclusive Business Community in Town

The Unconventionalls is a members-only community inspired by the countless business leaders who have been through one of the Think Unconventionall training programs for LinkedIn. Join the growing community today simply by purchasing an adult hoodie from the Wear Unconventionall shop, and stay as long as you feel you need it. Hit the button below for all the details.

The unconventionalls
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Welcome to the Human Intelligence Podcast

2 middle-aged men (well, one middle-aged, the other bordering on old), sitting down, discussing the brilliance of humans and how we are dangerously close to AI spoiling the party. Join us for human conversations about human stuff that can’t be replicated by a bot that only tells you what you want to hear.

Human Intelligence podcast
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Become A True Unconventionall...

Our mission at the Unconventionall Towers (there are no towers, just an office full of Lego) is to not only support those who are struggling to bring their voice to the digital stage but also raise much-needed awareness of the challenges being faced by neurodiverse families. Our clothing is a way for you or someone you love to express the brilliance that lies within. They represent strength and connect us to a community of people who truly understand the challenges we face as parents and neurodiverse individuals. Every penny of the profit we make goes to The National Autistic Society and the Childhood Tumour Trust. See the full range here.

What Our Clients Say...

Mark Thouless
Mark Thouless
"In 1972, a Lego lover was sent to prison by a military court for a crime he didn't commit. This man promptly escaped from a maximum security stockade into some bushes in the Kent countryside. Today, still wanted by the government he survives as a soldier of social media fortune. If you have a problem, if no one else can help, and if you can find him, and you have hobnobs….maybe you can hire The A-Team." The ‘A’ in A-Team of course stands for Andy ‘BA’ Barden…the ‘BA’ stands for Brick Aficionado…and by ‘Brick’ I mean Lego, not the ones that Jimmy Nail laid in Auf Wiedersehen Pet! To say Andy Barden saved my life would be a gross overstatement and if your life depends of social media then you need to take a serious look at your life choices…but I suppose we better get back to talking about Andy, it is his recommendation after all. Now while Andy didn’t save my life, he did give me back a huge chunk of it. A chunk that was lost in trying to manage my social media all by myself. Since working with Andy, and the awesomeness that is the team at Think Unconventionall, I have been able to use that reclaimed chunk to focus on what I should be doing with my time, which is running my business and working with my clients. To say that Andy has made a huge difference in growing my business and building my brand…well that is an understatement!!! So stop reading this and don’t bother reading any other recommendations because one, they ain’t going to be as good as this, and two they are all going to say what you already know deep down in your soul to be true and what your future self will say, which is the same thing I say every day and twice on Sundays… ...Andy Barden you’re my hero!!!
Liam Kelly
Liam Kelly
If LinkedIn was Middle Earth then Andy would no doubt be Gandalf. He is a wise being who likes to roam about guiding less informed individuals (hobbits) along the safest and quickest path to victory (engagements). I was basically Bilbo. I had no idea what to do or how to navigate this scary unfamiliar world. Thanks to AnDalf.... I have a much better understanding of how it all works. My engagements are increasing all the time. He's very easy to talk to (even without one of the lost seeing stones) and is always on hand to offer wise council via WhatsApp or email. We also have a weekly call to discuss positives and negatives from that weeks content. Very happy to recommend Andy. I would urge anyone seeking to recover the lost gold of Erebor or if you just want to boost your linked in following and write great content to get in touch with him!
Robin Horsham
Robin Horsham
Andy's persistence, began to intrigue, so I began to take note. I listened and realised that my ignorance and my belief I knew it all, (I'm an old salesman) was shown how wrong one can be. I began to engage and even ventured to converse with him. WOW what an eye opener. The realisation that you can teach an old dog new tricks was amazing. Andy then asked me to give an honest review on his training program and sent me the product for comment. This is where it gets difficult, so to keep it simple... FANTASTIC, concise and to the point. The program helps you and guides you to relook at what you have conditioned yourself into believing. It helps you see, in some parts the obvious that we tend to overlook when we have our blinkers on, and gently instructs you into taking a fresh look and showing you the right way to get and keep getting your message out there. Brilliant product, worth every penny
Paul Weedon
Paul Weedon
If you're after a (significant) leg up in the complicated world of LinkedIn. Andy is your man. He is also extremely responsive to your immediate challenges. Whilst at the same time being thoroughly professional and personable. It's a full marks 5* review from me.
Julie Edler
Julie Edler
Energy. That's what I think of when Andy Barden appears on my screen. Andy has more energy than anyone I know. And it is apparent in everything he does. Andy is passionate about his company, the causes he fights for and his work. I love that. People should be passionate about what they do. I'm glad that Axentia has been a part of Andy's journey and hope that our paths cross in the future.
Matt Page
Matt Page
Andy first captured my attention with his split videos of multiple personalities. From there I was captivated and drawn to this unconventional content. For my own requirements I was looking for someone to help pilot my online video content and take care of all the bits that put me off doing it for myself. The editing, subtitles etc. We worked closely to create an idea of content delivery that was unique to my needs. Andy's attention to detail, customer needs and delivery far exceeded my expectations. He is a pleasure to dialogue with and asks all the right probing questions and always attentive. I actually can't recommend Andy enough for any of his services. Thank you for all your hard work and effort. I'm aware I haven't been the easiest to deal with, not really knowing how or what I wanted to deliver. I needed to deliver some quality content.
Mike Chandler
Mike Chandler
This is the ultimate guide for anybody looking at starting out, or rethinking how they use LinkedIn. Andy delivers the perfect balance of sage advice and his inimitable style to really drill down into how you should prepare your LinkedIn profile and what/who you should be engaging with and why. I particularly like the chronological approach to this. It certainly opened my eyes to how I need to use LinkedIn moving forwards and some rookie mistakes I am making. Wholeheartedly recommended and I'm looking forward to putting the learnings into practice!
Jay Ludgrove
Jay Ludgrove
We always look to work with people within businesses who are able to deliver on every promise they make. Andy is one of those people. Every interaction is fun but also productive and I really feel like that we are in a safe pair of hands when Andy or his team are working on a project with us. Great fun to work with, incredibly knowledgeable and a bloody nice bloke to boot.
Tony Gordon
Tony Gordon
Andy is organised, professional and intuitive and has a way with words. This all comes together in a great package when it comes to social media content preparation and platform management. His attention to detail and client research goes above and beyond and makes the content he produces feel totally on point and relevant to the client. I highly recommend Andy if you are looking for support with your social content and channels.
Rachel Glasspool
Rachel Glasspool
I have been working with Andy for a couple of months now. He definitely delivers what is written on the packet. He's extremely reliable, consistent and continuously comes up with great material. He has really shown my personality through posts. He truly understands my passion for mental health and the importance of supporting children which he shares daily. Thanks Andy.
Jen Smith
Jen Smith
Every now and again, someone appears in your dm's that makes you think... Oh, they seem a decent kind of bloke, let me find out a bit more. It doesn't happen often, but it did with Andy. We've been working together for 3 months and I can safely say that my business pivot would be lingering somewhere in a dark corner if it hadn't been for him. Less of a pivot, more of a ungraceful twist that ended up wtih nothing apart from me looking a bit embarrassed. He's a guy that knows his stuff, has a brain that thinks as sideways as mine and explains things in a way that make sense to me. The best bit - a potential client Googling me and my LI profile in my new business name was the first to appear. That's what I call a tangible success.
Luke Bentley
Luke Bentley
I was recommended to Andy from a family member with a business in construction who’s content he creates. Andy was taking care of their social media pages, something I was not looking for at the time for my business but I decided to enquire anyway. A lot of conversations between myself and Andy to get my content set up and we got started within a month. After a couple months and a fair few tweaks Andy’s work has now started to pay off. The end goal I had in mind being to connect with new people, build working relationships with new clients which would hopefully lead to an increase in work load which is now starting to happen. I knew going into this that it may not be an instant success but with patience and Andy’s creativity it has worked out better than I originally thought it would. I also feel with Andy being available via message and frequent video calls this helped to change things as we went on to get it correct as what works for others doesn’t always work for you so it is important to have someone like Andy there to guide you and advise what changes may or may not work. Think Unconventionall.
Raz Malka
Raz Malka
Engaging with Andy Barden has been a game-changer for my LinkedIn content strategy. His keen understanding of social media dynamics and how they intersect with business goals is evident in every piece of content he crafts. He isn't just writing posts; he's creating a narrative that deeply resonates with my target audience. One of the standout qualities of Andy's work is his ability to weave everyday stories into his content. This approach injects relatability and genuine connection into every post, setting the groundwork for meaningful interaction with my LinkedIn community. Working with Andy has been a fantastic experience. If you're looking for someone who can help you elevate your social media presence and truly connect with your audience, I highly recommend his services. He doesn't just meet expectations; he continually exceeds them.
Mel Archbould
Mel Archbould
I have nearly completed Andy's 3-month LinkedIn Coaching course. It is hard to measure the value Andy's advice, instructions, tips, support and encouragement have brought to me and how I am now able to move my business forward. But it is a lot!! The one-hour per week sessions were tailored around my LinkedIn experiences and learning. And focused on how to keep improving how I use the platform to suit my target audience. By half-way through I had a DM which was triggered by a specific post, and that has now converted into a 12-month contract! There are loads of courses for LinkedIn, but my learning style responds better to 1-2-1, and most importantly to be held accountable. So finding Andy was perfect, and it has more than exceeded my expectations. I have shown up on the platform regularly, created content planning time in my weekly schedule, even done a couple of videos! Which, at first, felt like one of those dreams when you find yourself part-naked in a room full of people you know (or is that just me 😆), but I got over myself and went for it. Andy supported me all the way. Oh - and he's a great fella, funny, kind & no ego (but not sure I should mention the lego obsession..🤣).
Jenny Hopkins
Jenny Hopkins
Andy is one of the good guys when it comes to social media coaching. He’s helped me to understand the time and effort it takes to build presence and grow a community. I’m still at the early stages of my journey but with his guidance I feel a lot more confident about the steps I am taking.
Rosie Wareham
Rosie Wareham
Andy has LinkedIn expertise coming out of his ears, but more importantly when you speak to him, you feel 100% confident that he is giving you honest and genuine advice, guidance and next steps based on his own experience + understanding of your business goals. Working with Andy is an absolute pleasure and I'd highly recommend.
Andy Privett
Andy Privett
Andy B approach to 'LinkedIn coaching' is professionally unique. He understands how to grow your audience, create impact, and produce leads. Yes, create influence and create leads... that's what it's all about! The person you see on Andy B's profile & posts, is the guy you get in your coaching sessions. He breaks down strategy and takes you through implementation step by step.... he 'holds your hand'. My business is being transformed because of the work that I'm doing with Andy & his social media company. Top man, top skills.... can not recommend highly enough.
Emma Morton
Emma Morton
Andy has been an absolute treasure, he has taken the process of posting on LinkedIn and not only made it productive but pleasurable. Although it has only been a couple of months the growth on my account has been amazing and I can’t recommend Think Unconventionall and Andy highly enough. If you want to grow your presence on LinkedIn but have no idea what you are doing reach out to Andy, he and his team will help you every step of the way.
James Birrell
James Birrell
Andy is an exceptional mentor on LinkedIn, translating complex concepts into layman's terms. Highly recommend for anyone looking to master the platform.
Lucy Brown
Lucy Brown
I was completely lost with LinkedIn - dipped in and out every now and again, causing a fuss or posting a selfie, but I had no idea how to use it as a tool to aid my business. 90 minutes with Andy completely turned my perceptions around, made me realise what I'm missing out on and completely shove a rocket up my pants. The session was absolutely GOLD. I love a course and have taken many business related ones, but none have come close to what I've gained from the hour and a half with Andy. Tailored to me and my needs, hyper-specific, easy to follow, frank opinions - honestly, I cannot sing his praises enough. Andy, THANK YOU again. Just gold.
Andrea Lucille Pooler
Andrea Lucille Pooler
Andy is a fantastic colleague to work with. His expertise in LinkedIn engagement, creating exciting and spot-on posts that are true to the individual, and building up the visual profile with an eye to maintaining the authenticity of his clients is unparalleled. He is organized and professional- he gets the job done and works with his clients to address all of their needs.
Ash Wilks
Ash Wilks
Andy is an absolute master at helping me with my LinkedIn content and strategy. Every month he seems to be able to take my ramblings over our Zoom call and turn them into engaging posts that add value to my audience's feeds. Thanks very much!
Sarah Wood
Sarah Wood
I had a Power Hour and a Half with Andy a while back. I needed some practical, specific help to boost my LinkedIn game. The session was great, Andy had lots of advice and tips and I’m a lot more confident on my plan now. I also joined the Unconventionalls group and the monthly calls are great! There’s a great atmosphere and everyone helps each other. I’d definitely recommend Andy to anyone who wants to grow their presence on LinkedIn and generate more business on the platform.
Tim Hobbs
Tim Hobbs
Everything I saw from Andy before working with him made me think he had the right approach to social media that would fit with our team. Fun but totally competent. Quirky but completely focussed. I wasn't wrong - he took me and my team through our LinkedIn strategy, profiles and content yesterday and everyone left the session feeling like they know what to do next. It's up to us whether we actually take it forward, but he's followed up since with support and ongoing membership of his group so we have everything we need. Just do it - it's a really empowering experience.
Nina Ramskill
Nina Ramskill
Did a fantastic workshop with Andy this week, he was engaging, and down to earth and cut through the jargon to tell us straight! And he spotted my strong glasses game within minutes. Andy, highly recommend you to anyone who requires further knowledge in this crazy linked in world!

What Inspired Think Unconventionall?

Andy Barden & Jake from Think Unconventionall

The story starts with Andy’s Autistic son Jacob.

When the family realised his wonderful outlook on life resulted from his unique neurodiversity and engaging personality, it changed the way they engaged with the people around them. It completely reinvented the way Andy coached and mentored his teams. He now believed in a different way. First came the Unconventionall Boss. Then Unconventionall Apparel was launched to build a supportive tribe that celebrates the unconventional journey we all walk through in life.

We couldn’t stop there though because we were wearing our beliefs as a team. Now it was time to get businesses living and breathing inclusivity through their online presence and how they communicate in their space. We have taken the core beliefs of the Unconventionall brand and built a company that is designed to help businesses finally put their brand on the social map, in an accessible way.

Since 2019, we’ve been creating engaging content that links everyday situations with a clear business message. We have brought extreme value to our audiences, and those of our clients.

We look forward to working with you.

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