Zach Messler

Jennifer, I wouldn't say I think the title is looked down upon. Rather, I think you end up getting less moolah for the same work of other titles. FWIW, I do consider director of marketing communications kind of a dinosaur of a title. Perhaps it's not in certain industries. All I know is last time I heard it was back in 2003. With all the specialization that's happened the last decade or so in marketing, marcom ends up being seen as the "make it pretty" people. That's not something you want to be known for in a discipline that can (and should) be strategic. Don't get me wrong. The skillset's important. But, the view of that title is typically pretty poor. At least that's been my experience. What's yours been? 🤘👊💥😎

I think Stuart Smalley from old SNL days had it right. You're good enough. You're smart enough. And, doggone it, people like you. In all seriousness, you're in product marketing. That's not for the faint of heart. When I have setbacks, I go back to my LinkedIn recommendations. Keep a testimonial file -- from times when you did amizing work and people told you so. Then, go back to it when you need a kick in the pants. Read about how amazing you are. About the incredible work you've done. Now OWN IT. This works for me. And if it doesn't work for you, well... You're good enough. You're smart enough. And, doggone it, people like you. 🤘👊💥😊

You better read this fast. It's probably gonna get erased. This article has it backwards. Product marketing foundations shape brand, not the other way around. Now, before you roll your eyes and ask me what I'm smoking, consider this: Product marketing is largely about foundations. Positioning: How you show up in the minds of your buyers Messaging: What you say in support of 👆 Audience: Who you're for Problem: What you address Outcomes: What happens? Brand identity can't happen without a solid positioning foundation. Brand voice and tone can't happen without a solid messaging foundation. (Well, it can, but it's not gonna work as well as it could have!) Definitely learn the basics. Just understand what feeds what. 🤘👊💥😎

What tools for a killer product marketing video? That's simple. DM me, and I'll get you to my video guy. He's the best at video, bar none. Day-in-the-life videos Product demos Awareness You name it. Been working with him for almost a decade. 🤘👊💥😎

Sometimes the most effective ways to do something is simply to avoid the least effective ways. Wanna have a conflict-free experience with your manager? Make sure you do NOT: - Punch your manager in the head - Communicate exclusively in rhyme - Always make sure there's a whoopee cushion with your initials on your manager's chair - Insist on referring to your manager only by the nickname "The Supreme Overlord of Meetings" - Start every conversation with, "In my previous life, as your boss..." - Challenge your manager to a duel with foam swords - Tell your manager, "[NAME]. I am your father" in a gravelly Darth Vader voice - Wear a superhero costume to work and claim you're the only one who can save the company. You're welcome. 🤘👊💥😎

There's one thing that builds trust faster than anything else. Truth be told, it's not even that difficult. It's just one word. HELP. Srsly. Just help. Ask this question -- How can i help you right now? Or if that one doesn't float your boat, how 'bout this: "What can I do right now that would help you most?" Then...once you know what that thing to do is? DO IT. Just help. It's amazing what happens when you help without looking for anything in return. (Hint: You become trusted.) 🤘👊💥😎