Are we having fun yet?

I loved B.L. Ochman's recent post that marketers are not having enough fun.  Isn't it the truth!  Sometimes I think we are too harried, stretched too thin from travel, and too grim from internal political machinations in order to simply enjoy the ride. 

I interact with a lot of very successful professional service firm senior marketers and leaders.  I don't see enough spontaneous smiling and laughing.  When I do see it, oh what a relief!  One of my favorite CMOs does a great job of joshing her global marketing team members.  She's light hearted, affectionate and real.  I'm convinced this is partly why she's enjoyed her long tenure at her firm. 

I've also seen a professional firm CEO inject some fun into his very serious work.  He does it through a hilarious form of self-deprecation that instantly makes everyone relax and focus.  Clients and employees alike know it:  it's a refreshing jolt to be with him!

Of course, competition is fierce . . . the stakes are high . . . we have to be politically sensitive . . . yada . . .  yada . . .  But isn't there a place for being real, being lighter, enjoying the roller coaster thrill of business?  Are you having enough fun? 

Comments

[B.L. Ochman]

I've always thought a light touch is better than a heavy hand in marketing. So glad to see that you agree.
BL