Dear Marketing:
I love you.
More than 30 years ago, I was at a place in my life where I was ready for a new opportunity. I wasn’t necessarily looking for you; but somehow, you found me anyway. In high school, I was convinced I wanted something else but fate intervened and you stole my heart.
In all fairness, you did have a little help – a couple of matchmakers. One was Mrs. Morgan, my high school teacher who saw potential and steered me in your direction. And so did my parents. They insisted I go on a date with you to see if there was anything worth pursuing.
And there was; we ended-up dating for four years before I totally committed myself to you!
Since then, you impacted my life in so many ways. I now understand how to build collaborative relationships with my peers based on mutual respect. I understand that my clients always have pressures and limitations that are invisible to me so I’ve learned to be a good and patient listener and problem-solver. I’m especially good at taking responsibility, yet I know to ask for help when I need it, too. I love being part of a creative team, and I bring my best to the table every day, thanks to you.
You have taught me to think freely and creatively, to be forgiving, and to find that balance of humility and self-confidence that work wonders. You have brought me some of the best friends, customers and mentors I will ever have in life – the people who make it worth it, every single day.
I’m not sure what you look like exactly, but I knew that when I met you, I felt at home.
What I really love about finding you is the passion I have for you. Even after all this time, it’s only grown stronger. In fact, I’ve devoted my entire career to ensuring no one misunderstands or misuses you.
Oh sure, we’ve had our ups and downs over the years – campaigns that worked like magic and others that totally didn’t. You’ve taught me that we all make mistakes, that marketing (or anything for that matter) doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to be real, creative and measurable.
Yes, you bring me so much happiness. You have shown me that magic does exist, in so many endless ideas, shapes, forms, words and images. Thank you for constantly pushing me out of my comfort zone. Every day is a new surprise and a new challenge! You are a 24/7/365 presence in my head, but I wouldn’t change a thing.
So thank you. I am grateful for every day you’re in my life.
Love,
Pam.