The Marketing Mindscape Introduction

The Noob.

Okay…so maybe I am 20 years late in jumping into this blogging thing. I will admit that it is a little ironic given that I like to build myself as a self-proclaimed marketing technology enthusiast. But in my defense, I will admit that until now, I preferred to work behind the scenes. Much like Number 2 from the Austin Powers movies, I was perfectly happy to build and roll out successful initiatives and programs for others. I preferred to “do” rather than “talk” about ways to move the needle. My fulfillment was in the work, not the spotlight. Just to be clear, this is in no way an indictment of those that I have worked for. Quite the contrary. I was able to do what I loved, while I watched and learned how to maneuver the “public relations” side of the role from some really talented and terrific leaders–many that have gone to be prominent leaders at large organizations–that I am fortunate to still be close with today.

So why am I coming out of the shadows now? The easiest explanation is that in my current role, for reasons that I would rather explain another time, I have been forced to step up into the spotlight. Circumstances have propelled me to rise up and take on a much bigger role than my comfort level would have allowed in years past. The real explanation, however, is that now I am out in front of more people talking about marketing strategies, ideas and technologies, it has become clear that I may have something to share. In fact, some have directly asked me to talk and make recommendations about different approaches to marketing. These discussions gave me a moment of reflection and have inspired a new drive in me to open up more. Therefore, I thought a blog might be a fun way to accomplish this.

The Participation Principle.

So let’s start with a promise…an oath, if you will. With each article, I will promise to share stories, opinions, or general advice on the ever-changing nature of marketing and digital marketing technologies as open and honestly as possible. However, my opinions are just that…opinions. While I have been fortunate enough to have played in, and experienced, many different marketing sandboxes, I do not claim to be “the” marketing expert or “Knower of All Things.”

I encourage participation and discussion here. These articles will only be as good as the feedback and conversations it (hopefully) creates. The greatest asset that I have always had in any of these marketing roles and projects is a vocal and collaborative group to help support success. That is the goal of these articles, as well. Share your thoughts in comments, private message me questions, or ask to be “part” of these articles so that we can all learn and grow together. I would rather speak “with” readers and not “to” the readers of these articles.

My only ground rules for participation here are:

• Don’t be afraid to jump in and share ideas. No matter how odd or different you think your ideas may be, I encourage you to join the conversation.
• Let’s keep it clean folks. While I grew up on George Carlin and Richard Pryor, and love movies like the Wolf Of Wall Street (more swear words than any other movie with 715 expletives…seriously…look it up), I want to create a comfortable environment here for most everyone.
• Try to appreciate everyone’s point of view….even when we may disagree. This is marketing…not politics, religion, or who makes the best Taco Pizza (which is obviously Happy Joe’s Pizza in the Quad Cities…free plug).
• Let’s have fun. My hope is that not only will you pick up some new ideas from these articles, but that you will get a laugh or two while doing so.

 Full Disclosure

As you may have picked up already, I am an avid pop culture fan who will likely end up quoting bad movie lines, song lyrics, or other obscure references during our journeys. This is a condition resulting from having grown up on the introduction of cable TV, MTV videos, and the influence of John Hughes films during my formative years. Should I reference something not recognizable, feel free to ask me for clarification or jump in help others understand my unique references.

With that…welcome to The Marketing Mindscape. Enjoy the show.

Coming Attractions

In a new world order, two cultures with a common purpose, but with vastly different teachings, must fight years of primal instincts and come together to achieve greatness. Learn how this epic sales opera seeks to bring business development and marketing balance to the salesforce in this next chapter in the saga of The Marketing Mindscape, “Sales Wars: The Rise of Marketing.”