MIMA

Join me at the MIMA event this Thursday evening for a deep dive into the power of inclusive content with Kelsey Lindell from Misfit Media. Besides the opportunity to soak in some sunshine on the Carmichael Lynch rooftop, here are five reasons you should get your ticket ASAP: 1) Kelsey is a disability rights advocate that is dedicated to improving representation in marketing and brand communications. And she has clear, practical steps every content team can put into action TODAY. 2) Beyond being a dynamic and delightful presenter, Kelsey is fresh off the plane from Cannes and has insights to share about what brands across the globe are doing 3) Did I mention ROOFTOP? Summer? Delicious foods and drinks? AND the chance to mingle with agency and brand-side leaders in digital. 4) Disability Pride month starts on July 1st. Whether you're doing something or not, it's a great time to tune your instincts and understanding about this powerful (and growing) audience. 5) Not only will we listen and learn; we'll have a chance for everyone to discuss and dig in after Kelsey's keynote. DM me for a discount code to use on your ticket purchase or MIMA membership (which comes with a free ticket to all of our monthly insight events!) [[ Special thanks to Carmichael Lynch and Carmichael Lynch Relate for hosting this important conversation! ]]

Are you trying to be everyone's cup of tea? In our quest to build successful careers and businesses, it's easy to fall into the trap of wanting to appeal to everyone. After all, more clients, customers, or interviews mean more opportunities, right? Well, not necessarily. Here's the thing: when we try to be everything to everyone, we often end up diluting our message, our services, and even our authenticity. We become vanilla ice cream. And let's face it, vanilla ice cream is just...well, fine. As someone who has personally struggled with the people-pleasing mentality, I know how challenging it can be to break free from the need to be liked by everyone. For years, I found myself bending over backward to accommodate others, sacrificing my own needs and desires in the process. But you know what I've learned? Trying to please everyone is not only exhausting, but it's also futile. No matter how hard I try, there will always be people who don't resonate with my message or style – and that's okay. I think it can be empowering to embrace our uniquenesses and quirks. Think about it: the people and brands we admire most are often those that aren't afraid to stand out, to be a little polarizing even. They have a distinct flavor (that's not vanilla) that resonates deeply with a specific audience. Now, I'm not saying we should aim to be exclusive or alienate people. What I am saying is this: by trying to be "right" for everyone, we risk watering down ourselves and our offerings - and frankly watering ourselves down requires a lot of energy! When we embrace our uniqueness and niche down, something magical happens. We attract people who not only need us but who truly appreciate and value what we bring to the table. So, if you're feeling the pressure to conform or appeal to a wider audience, I encourage you to take a step back and reflect on what makes you truly special. What sets you apart from the crowd? What makes you unique? Embrace those qualities wholeheartedly, and watch who shows up for you. It's okay not to be everyone's cup of tea. In fact, it's more than okay – it's liberating. I gave a little talk about this to a wonderful community of marketers, job seekers, and freelancers at MIMA last night, hosted by The Coven. It was wonderful to connect with old friends and meet some new faces! Jennifer Chenoweth, The LinkedIn Gal