I will also look to embrace fundamental marketing concepts and tactics, such as going back to basics to re-learn how to write effective headlines and CTAs. I may even assign myself Marketing 101 homework, such as creating a SWOT and/or competitive analysis. Kicking it old school may be just the thing I need to kickstart new ideas.
Marketing resolution #5: I will seek inspiration.
I may also literally go back to school by attending a class. There’s a lot of great online learning out there on channels like Lynda and Khan Academy. I will make it a goal to do some online schooling or listen in on webinars. Whether they’re about marketing fundamentals or brand-spanking-new channels, strategies, or tactics, I bet I will learn something.
I also hope to stray outside of my marketing bubble and learn something else – such as a new way to use words, via a poetry or podcasting workshop. Or challenge myself by learning how to describe something using only images.
Speaking of learning, I will study the experts, too – by keeping tabs on what marketing and content experts have to say in 2018.
One other source of inspiration? Space. In 2018, I aim to leave space on my calendars to dream and think – to let my mind wander and see where it goes.
Marketing resolution #6: I will move — literally and figuratively.
Getting out of my office – stretching my legs and seeing new scenery – can help me gain new perspective. So, I will let myself take a walk every few hours, even if it’s just for a five-minute spin around the block. I will do yoga when I can, and lift weights. And during all of these activities, I will be sure to keep a notepad or my phone handy in anticipation of the ideas that will flow when I’ve let my mind stop actively thinking. (It’s funny how that works.)
As part of my moving, I will make sure to get out of my office – and city. I will try to attend a conference or two, and maybe even take a vacation for some perspective.
If the opportunity is right, I will look for ways to move in my career, as well – such as lateral or upward job changes. Industry moves. Taking on new clients.
Figuratively, I will also leave space in my marketing plans to be more nimble – per my learnings from Brain Surfing, outlined above.
Marketing resolution #7: I will find ways and make time to give back.
Despite my resolution to keep learning, I also recognize that my career to date gives me something called experience. And because of that, I have skills that I can share with others. And here’s the thing: Even if you’re brand new in your career, you have something to share, too.
I’ve discovered that when I reach outward to people, I usually I end up being the one fulfilled by new learnings, new perspectives. A little empathy never hurt a marketer.
In 2018, I will be on the lookout for ways to use those skills to help others. This may mean training new employees, giving a lunch-and-learn presentation, volunteering, or even finding ways to support causes via pro bono work and/or partnerships via cause marketing.
Marketing resolution #8: I will keep my eyes on the competition.
When I was growing up, I was a competitive swimmer. I learned to keep my head on a swivel in the pool to see where my competitors were at all times. My peripheral vision – and who I saw in it – was hugely motivational. So, proverbially and literally (see #6), I will go jump in the pool and see what my competitors are up to.
Marketing resolution #9: I will be unafraid to fail.
Not everything in life will work out. If it did, it would be boring. In 2018, I will try something new in my career at least a few times throughout the year. I will see what new tricks this old(ish) dog can learn. I will chase boundaries and see how far I can push them. And if the fence falls in on me, so be it. I can chalk that up to a learning experience, too.
Marketing resolution #10: I will stay curious.
My ultimate resolution for 2018? I will not let complacency defeat me. I will keep my eyes and ears open. I will pay attention to news from the marketing industry, the tech world – and the world at large. I will ask Why?, How?, and Why? again. I will let myself be humbled by what I don’t know, and open to learn what I need to know.
Those are the things on my list. What are your marketing resolutions for 2018?