15 Brutal Truths I Learned in 15 Years as a Marketing Professional
The marketing world is ruthless, flawed, and often disappointing. But it’s also full of lessons that can sharpen your instincts, strengthen your resolve, and help you build the career you want—if you’re smart enough to play by your own rules.
High-Caliber People Are Unicorns
Truly exceptional professionals are extremely rare - so rare I can’t name five. Most people are average, masked by well-polished facades. If you find someone extraordinary, hold onto them.Competence Isn't the Path to Corporate Success
Climbing the corporate ladder is about networking, perception, and playing politics. Being good at your job is often secondary.Money and Power Will Change People
The moment someone gets a taste of authority or a bigger paycheck, their true nature surfaces. Expect entitlement and arrogance from the most unexpected places.People Will Justify Betrayal
Ethics crumble fast when ambition or self-interest is on the line. “It’s just business” is the cop-out of the disloyal.Most Can’t Separate Between Being Emotional and/or Professional
People make decisions based on feelings, biases, and personal grudges, no matter how much they preach professionalism."Teamwork" Is a Myth When the Stakes Are High
Under pressure, self-preservation trumps collaboration. Expect blame-shifting and finger-pointing when things go south.Every Client Lies
From budget promises to future projects, clients rarely mean everything they say. Assume nothing unless it’s proven.Most Brands Have No Soul
For all the talk of “purpose” and “values,” most brands are driven by profit. Authenticity is an exception, not the rule.Creativity Is Often the First Victim of Fear
In moments of uncertainty, bold ideas are sacrificed for what’s “safe.” Fear kills innovation faster than incompetence.Leadership Is Mostly a Performance
Charismatic leadership is often just theater. Few leaders truly inspire or deliver; most just know how to appear in control.Work-Life Balance Is a Lie Unless You Enforce It
No one will respect your boundaries unless you demand it. Overwork is celebrated, but burnout will be your burden alone.Resilience Is Your Greatest Asset
Survival in this industry means enduring rejection, navigating politics, and bouncing back stronger every time you’re knocked down.Survival Is for the Fittest
This industry isn’t for the faint-hearted. It’s a game of endurance, adaptability, and relentless self-preservation.It’s in Writing or You’re Being Lied To
Verbal promises mean nothing. If it’s not documented, it doesn’t exist. Insist on clarity in writing, always.Never Work for Free
Exposure doesn’t pay bills. “Opportunities” that don’t come with a paycheck are exploitation in disguise. Value your time, or no one else will.
