In honour of my seventh year as a mentor with Marketing Connect, here are seven truths I’ve learned along the way. Every year I sign up to mentor, and every year I walk away having learned just as much from my mentees as they learn from me.
1. Saying no is the most powerful tool you have
Nobody remembers the marketing team that said yes to everything. They remember the team that had a measurable impact. Focus requires elimination.
2. Strategic clarity beats tactical noise
Do fewer things, and do them exceptionally well.
3. Being a manager doesn’t automatically make you a leader
Some of the best leaders I know aren’t managers, and plenty of managers are definitely not leaders. Leadership is a daily choice about how you show up. It’s a muscle you train, and it will keep challenging you.
4. Feel the fear and do it anyway
Nobody is born with full confidence, and nobody steps into a bigger role feeling 100% ready. People often tell me I seem confident. The truth is I feel the fear just like anyone else. I’ve just learned to do it anyway.
5. If you want to go far, go together
Long-term success comes from your environment and your support. I can only do what I do because I have leadership that trusts me, a team I can give clarity and flexibility to, and a ridiculously supportive partner.
6. The best leaders ask better questions
If someone tells you they have all the answers, they’re lying. Great leadership means asking the questions that help other people find the answers.
7. It’s easier to ask for forgiveness than permission
If something feels right and ticks the essential boxes, go for it (as long as you aren’t hurting anyone or damaging your brand). Permission might never come, and it’s far better to try, fail and learn.