1. Read, read and read more. Not everything but those online sites, books, magazines that are really informative, interesting and leading edge. There is nothing like knowing what’s going on, who is doing what, what the next thing is and learning from other people who can do the stuff we aspire to standing on their head. Don’t just read in the online media and marketing sectors. Try reading outside that. There are many occasions when I’ve read something quite different and been able to apply what other people have done either in a tactical marketing manner or just learning from their how to manage my career better. It also helps with product development!
2. Do things that other people won’t or don’t do. Look for the quick hits and solve the long term problems your customers have or your bosses have been struggling with for years. You need a lot of energy for this and great negotiation skills but your reputation will soar with customers and bosses alike.
3. Always, always understand people, their motivations, what inspires them, what they need and then give it to them. This goes for customers, colleagues, employees, bosses and everyone else. Get to know your top 20 customers really well. Keep in touch with them, go and meet them each year. Find out what is bugging them, what their problems are. Remember, customers are now buying experiences not just products or service.

I hope this helps. The key thing is to concentrate on three things that are going to have the biggest impact on your business, career, customers etc and go for them rather than trying to do everything at once which just sends you round and round in circles!!

Good luck and keep in touch.

Ann