Seeing the Light Bulb Go On - An Educator's Delight

Cartoons have used the image of a light bulb appearing over a character's head when they get an idea. A lot of teachers, myself included, will tell you we get a real rush when we see the proverbial light bulb go on over someone's head.

I was always good at retail sales. I think part of the reason was that I got more excited about helping my customers learn about the product than I did in selling it to them. Sure I liked to make a sale too, but only if I felt like it was a good fit and that the customer would know how to use what I was selling.

In my consulting career, I have the habit of teaching my clients how to fish instead of reeling in the catch for them. I like empowering them to be successful at marketing, not just gain a few customers while I am in charge of their campaigns.

This has met with mixed results. A lot of clients want me to do the work and they don't know or care how I do it. Others are grateful that I am willing to share my secrets and help them be successful long term.

So if you are thinking of hiring me as a marketing consultant, be warned that I will try to get you to learn what I am doing so that you can be successful in the long term.

Don't get me wrong, the best leaders delegate to multiply their efforts. I'm not suggesting you have to do all the daily tasks yourself. I do recommend that you have enough understanding to oversee your marketing campaigns well, including managing your marketing team and/or vendors.