It’s graduation season! As thousands of young people across the country don their caps and gowns, I’d like to give some advice to all of the future marketers out there. Here are a few things to remember that have taken me years to learn. And to be honest, I am still learning.
It’s Okay to Ask for Help
There’s a pit in my stomach that forms whenever I need to ask for help. I have to remind myself that I don’t have to do it all myself. One of the wonderful things about working for an agency is that everyone has different skills. Different co-workers can pitch in on different parts of a project when needed. They can also give you advice on how to get things done.
Asking for help doesn’t mean your slacking or not taking your responsibilities seriously. It means you should thank your lucky stars that you have a team backing you. Marketing is a team sport and it works better when you work with others.
Writing Skills are Important – and Rare
At the start of my career, I took my writing skills for granted. I thought everyone can write. No big deal.
After a few more years in the workforce I learned that everyone can write but not everyone can write well. So much of marketing is writing. Or starts with writing – advertising copy, scripts, creative briefs, white papers, taglines, web copy, blog posts, social media and the list goes on. If you can hone your writing skills, you will stand out from the pack.
Stop Worrying So Much
Early in my career, I worried about so many things. I worried about finding my “niche.” It seemed like everyone in my office was good at something I wasn’t. (Which is by design, see “It’s Okay to Ask for Help” above.) I worried that I wouldn’t be able to get to where I wanted to go, which was a title with the word “director” in it.
Its understandable to worry a lot about your career, especially at the beginning of it. In my case, the only antidote that I could find to my constant worrying was time and experience. I stopped caring about having a niche when I figured out that I am interested in many things . My advice: figure out what you’re interested in and what is important to you. Develop your natural talents and stop trying to force yourself into some mold you think you need to fit into.
Your Goals Might Change
Which brings me to that “brass ring” syndrome I had for the longest time. At some point, I figured out that being the director of something was not going to make me happy. Making things, working with great people, moving fast and yes, sometimes breaking things, that makes me happy. A fancy title does not.
In sum, it’s important to think about what makes you happy and fulfilled. I know that’s easy for me to say, especially from my vantage point of having spent many years in this industry. And I know that the first few years in any career are going to feel like you’ve been thrown into the deep end.
Remember, it’s easier to float on a rising tide than to swim against it. You just have to find the right tide. So, go and catch your next wave, and see where it takes you.
And here we are at the end of 2020. Last year’s reflections focused on time and community. At the end of 2019, we encouraged you to spend the first year of this new decade in community with others and in the company of those you love. Little did we know how life-altering 2020 would prove to be.
This is the year of the letter “I.” 2020 has not been idyllic, but it has been, for better or worse, impactful. First, it has been isolating. But, 2020 has illuminated how important people and community are, and how much we take for granted in our modernized world.
2020 highlighted the fact that we are all imperfect people who could use a little extra kindness and grace extended toward us.
It’s been a year of incredible innovation and imagination to say the least. How did this happen? Industrious people were required to slow down and indulge in the company of those closest to them while requiring others to be indefatigable in their care of others.
So we hope these reflections lift your spirits and provide hope and inspiration for a brighter 2021.
Chief Rocker Julie Porter
For me, 2020 was always going to be a monumental year. I anticipated significant changes in my personal life. But I never would have imagined how quickly and continuously my family would have to adjust our plans and expectations.
From a personal perspective:
My son graduated from high school during COVID. Bands of angels are singing that it happened. Then, his school, as did most others, adjusted their plans to provide a wonderful graduation celebration.
Yes, he also left the nest and began his freshman year of college. Now, he’s more than 1,000 miles away. No amount of planning could have prepared me for this. So I simply miss him. My heart yearns for his presence every single day. Yet, I am so proud of him. Of course, he has acclimated brilliantly to his school in a different state, even without the usual opportunities to build new relationships.
Next, I quickly learned I should not quit my day job in favor of becoming an elementary school teacher. Actually, I would be awful (and miserable!) at it. My daughter, an extrovert, began learning online after Spring Break 2020. Homeschooling isn’t for either of us. As a result, I could never be more thankful for those blessed with the ability and passion for teaching.
And finally, my husband, employed with the same company for 19 years, left his job. That could be a whole blog post itself.
From a business perspective:
This year, I have marveled at the Front Porch Marketing team. Their talent, attitude, dedication, collaboration, innovation and work ethic are unmatched.
Honestly I don’t know what I have done to receive them as one of my many blessings. They are the best.
So 2020 was a reminder we need to let people do their thing. I often said to our team members, “You do you. I will do me. There is no judgment.”
Inspiration has come from business owners and leaders who pivoted, rebranded and/or valiantly stayed the course. Hence, I am grateful many have realized the power of branding and marketing in growing and saving their businesses.
Mid-March, I wasn’t sure what would happen to Front Porch Marketing. What would happen to our clients’ businesses? Where would new business come from?
Every year brings new lessons. 2019 was hard for my family because of a personal loss. It made us stronger ~ my family, my business and me. Thus, I am grateful for the strength I gained and could rely upon this year. Looking forward, I am hopeful for the opportunity 2021 holds. May we continue to be the light. Always find the joy.
Media Rock Christine Finnegan
2020 was a pivotal year in my life. To start, I had to take hold of my family’s well-being like never before. This was more about a mindset than physical acts, particularly with college-aged sons. Their emotional framework was dictated by how I was reacting to our world, as we knew it, changing seemingly overnight.
Consequently, my sons and I operated as a unit and, as such, our already strong bond increased to a new level. So 2020 made me more resilient. I hold the ones I love closer and tighter. In some ways, I am going to miss the closeness the quarantine afforded my sons and me.
Rock Star Vanessa Hickman
One special outcome from the year is gratitude for all the things! Big things, small things and everything in-between. Bigger and better appreciation for simple creature comforts (toilet paper), ability to provide for our kids, travel and go to school.
Separation intensifies love, so my case-study of one validates absence makes the heart grow fonder. This year brought great appreciation for missed events, gatherings and people. It really put a spotlight on our priorities and was a reset on how and where we spend our time.
We are more grateful for our family, friends, community, healthcare providers, food suppliers, teachers, delivery drivers, and leaders than ever before.
We continue to be amazed by our community’s resilience, resourcefulness and ability to keep going with a positive attitude. It is always good when your blessings are bigger than your bummers and that is how we are wrapping up the year and to that we give thanks!
Rock Collector Alison Moreno
In such a turbulent year, I have found that being grateful for the small things helped me find more moments of peace. First, making a concerted effort to find joy in the everyday helped me to recognize I was able to spend extra time with family. I could learn new skills, enjoy being outside on a beautiful day and work with wonderful people. In these things I have found healing in gratitude and I am going into the new year knowing there is always good around us – we just have to look for it.
Intern Allison Corona Del Cid
2020 has been filled with challenges. But it has also been a true blessing to spend this year growing closer to my family, friends and faith. And I am truly appreciative of my FPM family and the joy they get from our clients’ successes. So here is to a new year! My biggest wish is for health, happiness and hope for all.
Swiss Army Rock Lea Ann Allen
2020 – the year that seems to have taken away so much from so many. On paper, it meant job loss, isolation, breast cancer and a pandemic. But I choose to acknowledge that this is the year I have realized a lifelong dream I never thought was possible. After a 30+ year career as a female creative, I am finally doing work that I am good at doing. And it is work that I love doing – for and with kind people who value me.
Now I work exclusively with women-owned businesses like Front Porch Marketing. Women have always been strong. This year, for the benefit those around them, women across the world have had to take on additional roles and shoulder heavier burdens. It surprises me not at all that women are persevering and creating work for others: recommending each other, lifting each other up and keeping each other afloat. In short, 2020 has been a year of incredible strength and resilience on everyone’s part.
Lil’ Rock Maria Gregorio
This year did not go according to plan. But, as Julie always says, “Be the light.” I choose to shine a light on the good things:
My niece, Elise, was born in November. She’s a few weeks old and doing great.
I have a job that I like and that I’m good at doing. (If someone told me as a kid that I would make a living with my creativity, I’m not sure I would have believed them.)
I have great friends and family. They are all people with whom I can share the good stuff and the bad stuff.
I am grateful for what I have because it’s a lot. It’s a lot.
From All of Us on the Porch: Let Your Light Shine, Friends
This week, we welcome Alison Moreno, our newest accounting rocker, to the team!
Alison Moreno’s Look on Life
What is the biggest misconception about accounting today?
Overall, I’m sure there are several misconceptions about accounting, however, for me, it was thinking I had to be a math wizard to be a bookkeeper. Before, I always struggled with higher math but keeping track of finances is basically just adding and subtracting.
2. What advice would you give to someone struggling with QuickBooks?
Take a class! They are easily available and it’s a very easy program to learn.
3. One of the biggest lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?
Love what you do and don’t be afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone. Surprisingly, you might just realize it’s the most wonderful thing!
4. What does good Accounting look like for a marketing firm?
What I love about accounting is its consistency no matter the company. There are slight changes depending on those that make financial decisions for the company, however, assets will always equal liabilities plus equity.
5. If you could be anywhere in the world right now where would it be?
At the beach. Hawaii has the best beaches in my opinion but that’s as exotic as my beach expertise gets. We were supposed to go on a cruise this year to celebrate our 15-year anniversary but that’s been postponed. After that, I’m sure I’ll have some more favorite beaches.
6. If you could go to dinner with one person living or dead who would it be?
My Grandpa. He was one of my favorite people, and he was a great example to me of a hard worker and kind honest man.
7. If you could describe Alison Moreno in three words what would they be?
Positive, adventurous, hungry
8. What is your favorite thing about FPM?
So far, the people are my favorite thing. Although I have only spoken with a few, I am really excited to work with everyone.
9. Tell me about a major milestone in your life?
Almost 4 years ago I hit my goal weight and had lost 70lbs. Previously, I struggled with weight and eating healthy and finding exercise I enjoy but somehow, I figured it out and it brought me to tears. Overall, it taught me a lot about myself and what I am capable of and I have been able to help friends as well.
10. In what ways does the team at FPM have aligned values?
They are unified in success and creativity. Watching them throw out ideas with great feedback to help each other is such an encouraging thing to see from the get go with a new company.
11. Your goals for FPM?
As a newly certified bookkeeper, I am excited to put my knowledge to practical use and to gain even more knowledge as I work with others and gain experience. Also, I want to be able to answer any question thrown at me or know exactly where to look to answer it.
12. How would you describe the culture at FPM?
So fun and inviting. Watching them discuss ideas and congratulate each other on successes for their clients confirms my opinion of what a great company this is.
13. How does FPM differentiate itself from other marketing companies?
Honestly, this is the first marketing company I’ve ever done business with so I’m starting from scratch. Nonetheless, I love the personal feel of the environment. It already feels like a family-type unit working together.
14. What is a fun fact about yourself?
I have been a photographer for the past 7 years. Undoubtedly, it is my creative outlet. Even though it is a part-time job, I would do it for free because it is one of my favorite things to do.
In Conclusion
Thank you for tuning in as this New Rocker shares her Porch insights. We are excited to have her on the team and watch her flourish. Feel free to comment below if you have any questions you’d like to ask Alison.
From day one of my FPM internship, I quickly realized the importance of active learning and most importantly active application. The world of marketing thrums on the excitement of people bringing new ideas to life and sharing them with others. It’s only natural that this excitement creates a lively and dynamic environment where you learn lessons as quickly as you apply them.
Along this journey of active learning and active application, I was able to stretch myself in new ways. From trying to figure out how to prioritize your tasks to navigating uncharted waters, I give you – the ultimate list of lessons.
Top 5 Ultimate Lessons Learned
Ultimate Lesson #1
Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Whether you get a job in the business world or take your neighbor’s dog on a walk, everything is a learning journey. When you don’t know what a certain word or task means, ask for example pieces. Once you see examples, you’ll be able to tweak your work as you go. By being open about your confusion, you’ll be able to get more clarity and open the channel of communication with your team.
Ultimate Lesson #2
Embrace your mistakes! No one is perfect – we are all human. Although we strive for perfection, the only way to get better is to learn from your mistakes. Aim for a more efficient and effective thought process the next time you get a task you have trouble with. Undoubtedly, practice makes perfect!
Ultimate Lesson #3
Communication is key! A million and one things happen throughout the day and you can’t expect everyone to know what you are doing, nor can you assume that once you are done with your task that there isn’t more to be done. When you effectively communicate throughout the day with your team members, everyone is able to be on the same page. As a result, better teamwork is able to unfold.
Ultimate Lesson #4
Time management is KEY! When you are delegated multiple tasks with multiple deadlines, it’s imperative to write down a to-do list. Write the list from most important to least important and work your way down to increase efficiency. By creating this list, you’ll be able to track your progress throughout the day and create a drafted timesheet. At the end of the day, a completed list can give you the best feeling of accomplishment.
Ultimate Lesson #5
If you’re on time you’re 10 minutes late! When there is a time set for a meeting, client call, or even deadline, always aim to be present, poised, and punctual. Show initiative by being early. You’ll need those extra minutes for a bathroom break that would have overwise left your client awkwardly waiting for you at the front or needed when you attempt to submit a project right on the deadline but then your computer dies. Without a doubt, you never know what may happen so it is always best to be prepared with a pocket of time.
Conclusion
From being a senior at Baylor University to being an intern at Front Porch Marketing, I’ve used these pockets of wisdom in many facets of my life. These lessons have served me in more ways than one and now my hope is that they will serve you. May you flourish in all of your future endeavors!
We once again find ourselves, think agility, at a new threshold as our state and country reemerge from quarantine and businesses are making decisions on their next step. The initial rush of the digital pivot is fading … the next opportunity is stamina and easing back into the new normal, whatever that may be.
However, before we start running that ball, let’s just pause and celebrate the WINS over the past five weeks.
With collaboration of the students, parents, administration and teachers, Faith Family Academy was able to continue to serve their student body food, technology and knowledge. They did not miss a beat. Faith Family Academy, you rock!
To Mister Sweeper, who
continues to hire when so many are looking for employment AND keeping streets,
parking lots and garages clean, an especially important job right now! Mister Sweeper, you rock!
Agility Rules!
To Corps Team Dallas, who
continue to support clients in their hiring, pipeline and talent continuity plans,
plus the virtual edition of “What We Love about Dallas,” was a go-to guide for entertainment
this month! Corp
Team Dallas, you rock!
Despite Big Al’s business being significantly hindered during shelter in place every week they have continue to give big with 100+ meal donations to first responders and the underserved community partners, like Family Gateway, Ronald McDonald House, Genesis Women’s Shelter and UTSW first responders. Big Al’s, you rock!
Essential workers that found a new way to safely do business, you rock!
Entrepreneurs who continue to forge ahead despite many unknowns with business and marketing plans, you rock!
Non-profits that are using creative means to serve their clients, you rock!
Therefore, Stay-at-home parents that are navigating new schedules and systems, you rock!
To the kids (especially
seniors) that are mourning traditions missed, but are finding creative
alternatives, you rock!
Above all, all accomplishments, are worth cheering. Find reasons to celebrate and promote good news and good deeds. Recognize all the daily, tiny actions and choices that are keeping our community moving. If we did not catch you in this wrap up, know that we think you rock!
If I were to google you right now, what would I find? What impressions would I form after viewing your professional history, your social media presence (or lack thereof), and your photos? Would I want to do business with you? Hire you? Befriend you?
Wakeup call, people … you’re being watched. It’s time to take control of your personal brand.
Say what?
Whether or not you identify it as such, you have a personal brand. Branding used to be reserved for businesses, but with the mushrooming social media landscape and the growing gig economy, the time has come to embrace personal branding.
A personal brand is how you present yourself to the world. It’s what you want people to know — who you are, what you think, what you stand for, and what makes you unique. Oftentimes, it’s the first impression someone will make of you.
So … yeah, it’s important. A strong personal brand establishes you as a thought leader in your industry, promotes your company (and your career), differentiates you from those who share your space, and allows you to build trust with those who seek you out.
Know thyself
Developing your personal brand starts with taking an objective look in the mirror. How would you describe yourself personally? Professionally? How would others describe you? Identify a handful of adjectives that feel like spirit words and make them your litmus test for everything you publish, post, share, comment on, and participate in.
Find your niche. Solidify what sets you apart. And then run with it. It won’t happen overnight. It requires communicating your mission to your audience, in a genuine way, consistently and for the long-term.
Speaking practically
Focus your branding. Share only what rings true. Posting just for the sake of posting is just noise.
Deliver value to your audience. Make sure what you’re sharing is relevant to those you are talking to.
Put the “social” in social media. Interact on the platforms where you live. Comment when you have something to say. Like when something rings true to you. Start a conversation.
Share yourself with your audience. Give them a glimpse into your life and your soul. People want to know what makes you tick.
Don’t live and die by your numbers. Having a gaggle of followers is fantastic, but are they your people? Are they engaging with you and furthering your brand?
Lastly, and most importantly, make sure the on-line version of you matches the in-person version of you. Nobody likes a stepford wife. Don’t get caught up in what you think you should be – be authentic.
