This is my Mom’s favorite tree in her neighborhood (Bend, Oregon). It reminds me to find the beauty in change and never be afraid of what’s coming next. This is especially poignant during the COVID-19 pandemic and the ever-changing challenges it presents both professionally and personally for all.

As a Chief Marketing Officer, one must be flexible and open to constant change. Changing market landscapes, changing products, changing services, changing technology, changing laws, changing work environments, changing everything. It’s why I love marketing — there’s never a dull moment.

Experienced CMOs understand change management is inherent to the position and set up transparent infrastructure, systems, processes, and teams to guide all involved through a flexible mindset and learn how to pivot on the fly.

  • Many people struggle with change, but natural marketers understand that it comes with the territory and learn to build mental strength and processes to deal with it quickly and efficiently.
  • They identify issues/stop gaps, listen to customers, prospects, market trends, data, internal teams, create a plan, and move forward.
  • They don’t sweat the small stuff or cry over spilled milk. They just keep moving with the singular mission of creating awareness and driving qualified leads for their sales teams.

My grandmother always said that the only constant in life is change, and she was absolutely right. The key is to find a way to accept it, appreciate the ride, and have the courage to face the unknown. This can be challenging at times, but if you have the right team or partners, the journey is less scary and the vision is clear.  It’s all about game plan — who’s on first, what’s on second, and I don’t know’s on third. Clarity.

Here’s to wishing you a successful Autumn and positive mental shift into year-end planning and 2022. If you should need some help, remember there are talented CMOs out there to help you.

Attitude is everything, so bust out your dancing shoes and meet me on the dance floor. I’ll be there waiting to boogie.