The great irony of my life is I went into advertising because I was better with words than math or science. Then spent most of my life selling math and science. Go figure. I began in post Mad Men era NY agencies working with an early PC maker. I ended up in Atlanta helping create one of the first agencies to apply modern marketing to tech (acquired later by a major global agency network). I still trace everything that guides me back to that pioneering agency experience.
Since then I helped solve marketing challenges for companies across every aspect of the enterprise. Eventually I went brand side where authentic storytelling is more crucial than ever to connecting brands to customers. Because, while AI can do more than ever, you can't automate authenticity. Not yet, at least.

Aside from the need to be honest and authentic, I've come to believe a few things during my career about what I do and the nature of the market that define my approach to my work. A few of them follow.
Critical lesson from my agency years. Once you accept this, "now you're ready to start marketing."
What you say about yourself must be true. As well as credible and relevant to the audience at this moment/place in time.
In considered B2B decisions details are critical; emotion comes next. So speak to the head first, then go for the gut/heart.
If that is, you have what it takes, and permission from the audience, to be who you want to be (new spin on perception=reality).

Be connected to people you trust and love. I've been married 30+ years to wife Beth who keeps me and our four grown kids connected and moving in the right direction. It's important to have people like that in your life. And to be that person for others, too.

I rowed crew in college, an experience that taught me my most important lessons in life. Work hard, push yourself to your limits, do it together, trust others and be someone others can trust. If you haven't read "The Boys in the Boat," you should. Sums it up nicely.

Our four kids have given me a life of joy and laughter. Raising them with Beth has been my #1 accomplishment. Today, with the kids all grown, these two crazy dogs keep me laughing and smiling. Being passionate about work and having fun go hand in hand.
Hyman Says is Eric Hyman's creative portfolio site
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