Don’t be an expert, be open. Let’s be honest. There is a lot of talk about embracing mistakes, failing fast, and showing vulnerability. But expertise is both rewarded and embraced, and often essential to being viewed as credible. How do you balance this? The marketing leader finds ways to communicate expertise while still showing openness toward others, inviting participation.
This balance is serious Jedi-level $h#t (I’m still working on it). You’re never really a master. But the difference between a “functional expert” (director) and “leader” (VP or CMO) lies in tone, tenor, and self-awareness. You don’t have to be perfect, but you do have to develop tools to navigate challenges with grace. Experts feel closed. Leaders feel open.
— Loved: How to Rethink Marketing for Tech Products (Silicon Valley Product Group) by Martina Lauchengco