The Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) is a tribe made up of talented marketers, business developers, executives, and other business people from all around the country. Our common goal is to build our networks and generate business for our respective organizations, but something we tend to overlook is that SMPS gives us the opportunity to be leaders in our own right and do things that we may not normally get to do in our everyday careers.
The theme for this year’s SMPS Michigan board of directors is based on Seth Godin’s book, Tribes, with the idea that everyone involved in SMPS is a leader. We all have the ability to shape the organization into what we would like it to be and in doing so it will provide us with experience that will positively impact our professional careers as well as the firms that we work for and with.
When I began my career in the A/E/C industry nine years ago, I never thought I would be in the position I am in today. Much of my success and education is because of the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) and I am so thankful for all the opportunities that the organization has afforded me.
Working on projects such as the development of the Pinnacle Awards Program – which will become a regional-based awards program in 2010 and assisting in the planning of the first-ever Heartland Regional Conference (one of the most successful SMPS regional conferences ever) has helped me build relationships, tested my abilities, and provided great leadership experiences.
SMPS offers the networking and educational opportunities that marketers, business developers, and other executives need to continue moving their business forward, but if offers something else too – experience beyond your typical job description. In today’s marketplace, don’t you need that competitive advantage?
In the book Tribes, Godin says, “[You have] everything you need to build something far bigger than yourself. The people around you realize this, and they are ready to follow if you’re ready to lead.”
So be a leader. Challenge yourself. Lead a tribe and become more involved in SMPS Michigan. You and your career will only benefit from the experience.
To get more involved or to just chat about life, call me or email me anytime at 248.436.5570 or dana.galvin@bartonmalow.com.
Best wishes in your future success!
