It’s hard to explain what you get out of being part of the Marketing Academy. Unlike a Weight Watchers programme where you can visualise the before and after, you’re never quite sure what the end result of this intense year will be.
Five months in and I can already start seeing some changes. I now say things like ‘vision’ and ‘purpose’, without an ounce of irony. In meetings I listen… really listen instead of mentally preparing what I’m going to say when it’s my turn to speak. The changes aren’t limited to work; I now tell people I appreciate what they do and it’s often met with a stunned, quizzical expression.
It all sounds a bit airy fairy and has led many to wonder if I’ve either joined a cult or survived a near death experience. So I brought the topic up with James Scroggs, one of the mentors, and he simply explained: you get to learn in a year what the average person doesn’t figure out until well into their forties. On paper that sounds incredible, but in reality it’s not a short cut, to call it that would be a disservice. There’s certainly no magic wand. It’s more like having time to consider what’s important to you and learn little things you can do differently that’ll have a huge impact. And of course there’s the added benefit of learning from some ridiculously smart people in the industry.
So what have I picked up so far?
“When you do things deliberately, it’s more likely to be successful” – Dominic Grounsell, who is without question the most focused person I’ve ever met. He has such a clear vision (see, there I go again), it challenges you to reassess what you’re striving towards.
“What you focus on grows and develops. What you ignore withers and dies” – Karen Hunter, who explained how easily your thoughts can impact your reality.
“Marketing is like conducting an orchestra” – Mike Hughes’ simple lesson on how leadership is about bringing out the best in others, who are all working to a shared goal.
“As well as a to-do list have a to-be list” – Hayley Spurling and Nina Holdaway’s reminder of the impact of your behaviour on others.
“Make the most of every opportunity” – Sherilyn Shackell. This one does what it says on the tin.
On their own, these pearls of wisdom give you a lot to consider. Add them up over the year and I expect it’ll be similar to the Weight Watchers equivalent of finally losing bingo wings and feeling like a better version of yourself.
@Oh_Clara
