Four Peas

View Original

Why Experience and Wisdom Matter

Let me start off by explaining how I got here. Throughout my marketing career, I’ve seen things. Really good things, and sadly, some really bad things. I’ve seen teams built and thriving.

I’ve seen technology do amazing things.

I’ve seen breakdowns and failures, wins and celebrations.

I’ve seen money spent foolishly or too frugally to make any significant change happen. 

Some things I was in charge of; other things I had no control over. 

I’ve learned a lot from past mistakes, poor judgement, and unrealistic expectations. I’ve inadvertently sent that email before it was tested. I’ve presented an idea that was laughed off as too ambitious. I’ve implemented programs that were wildly successful, some that I knew would work with the right budget, and some that failed miserably.

If you’ve “been there, done that”, too, you’re my people.

Through all of that, I’ve been taking notes.

All of that experience doesn’t just get filed away, however; I use it every day. Over the years I’ve kept a list of all of the things I learned from each job I’ve had. I’ve even noted the leadership qualities I’ve seen in others that I want to emulate, as well as the practices that I find troublesome and unprofessional—practices I consciously avoid.

This is the reason I pursued the role of a Fractional Marketing Executive, or Fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and am now working with clients in this capacity.

What is a Fractional Marketing Executive (CMO)?

A fractional CMO provides companies with the expertise of an experienced marketing leader at about half the cost of hiring a full-time chief marketing officer. My role with clients is that of a fiduciary, where I provide accountability around spending on activities related to the customer. We work on breaking down the silos of “marketing,” “sales,” and “customer service”, thereby improving communication internally, reducing unnecessary spending by putting dollars in the right place, and making sure all the parts of the business are heading in the same direction—toward long-term customer value and reaching organizational goals.

How do I help?

I’ve always been one to ask questions—especially the hard ones. What I’ve found is that being successful in marketing (or any related field) is sometimes just a matter of asking the right questions at the right time. That’s where my experience can make all the difference.

What are you struggling with? (The Problems I Solve)

  • Lack of marketing experience / wisdom on your leadership team

  • Inefficient marketing team

  • Not sure where your marketing dollars are/ should be going

  • Not seeing sales as expected

  • You want to grow but are unsure how

  • Can’t afford to add a CMO or full-time marketing leader

Would this benefit your team? (What I Do)

  • Provide executive-level marketing leadership and accountability

  • Align budget with realistic goals

  • Train and support existing marketing staff to be more efficient and effective

  • Help your leaders make strategic marketing decisions

  • Reduce unnecessary spending on marketing tech, vendors, or tactics

  • Measure performance and results

Email me or give me a call at (715) 256-7442 if you want to see how engaging a fractional marketing leader could benefit your company. Learn more about what we do in this space.