I sure have. In fact, I’ve got a whole video sharing about this situation — and how this particular interaction changed the way I lead my business and my family. It’s a story I’ve wanted to share for a while, because it’s got some valuable humble leadership tips I wish I’d have heard earlier. But if you can only choose to read this post OR watch the video, go click the link below. (Just don’t get distracted by all the awesome Fractional CMO content and forget to come back here!)
Don’t have time to read this post? Watch the video here!
You’ve got time to watch the video AND read this post? Awesome!
So here’s the short version:
Years ago, my business was really struggling. I wanted to buy out my (then) business partner, but didn’t have the money. I met up with a friend over drinks, and in the process of sharing stories and catching up, I decided to tell him about my struggle. Now, this friend has great business instincts and has done *very* well for himself and his family. He’s one who never “sugar-coats” anything, and tells things like they are. He was a go-to for advice and leadership tips, but I’d NEVER asked him for financial help.
After hearing my predicament, this “ friend” offered to buy out my partner. I said no. He asked me how much money I was making a year, so I told him.
“Do you know what half of your yearly salary sounds like?” he asked. I said that I didn’t.
He took off his super expensive watch, threw it into the air, and it landed on the floor with a thud. “That’s what half of your yearly salary sounds like,” he said.
I. Was. Shocked.
How cruel to rub his wealth and success in my face! Was he trying to steal my business out from under me? What an arrogant, self-absorbed jerk!
Except he wasn’t. It took a while to realize it, but my friend wasn’t being a self-absorbed jerk. I was. Buying out my partner wouldn’t be a burden for him. And I desperately needed help, but my ego was getting in the way. This very…er…”visual” lesson was exactly what I needed to break through my own pride and accept the help my business and family deserved.
Lessons in Humble Leadership
Since then, 8 SIGNAL (and I!) have changed. We’ve incorporated service and “humble confidence” into our business core values By offering fractional CMO services, we’re able to help business leaders get the marketing help they need. As I’ve reflected on the “watch on the floor” experience, here are some principles and leadership tips that stand out. Hopefully these leadership tips can help you as well.
- It’s Okay to Ask For Help: If you’re struggling in your business, asking for help isn’t a weakness. No one can do it all. And when it comes to your team, it’s valuable to model openness and honesty.
- Don’t Let Your Pride Get In the Way of Progress: Setting aside your ego makes room for valuable feedback and expert advice. Humility isn’t easy or natural (for me at least!). But humble leadership benefits everyone: including your team and your clients.
- Value Constructive Criticism: The truth can be hard to hear. It can be painful. But when we listen to the truth, it breaks down barriers and paves the way to meaningful change. Choose to see feedback as an opportunity to improve instead of a setback.
- Build Genuine Relationships: Similar to the first point, no one is a Lone Ranger. As business leaders, we need a support system. We need authentic connections with peers and mentors who provide feedback, leadership tips, and guidance as we navigate challenges. Whether this insight comes from a peer group, a fractional CMO, or someone else — we all need support.
- Invest In Your Growth: All of us are “works in progress.” Take the time to reflect, get advice, and grow as a person. By doing this, you’ll become a better leader, have personal goals aligned with your business goals, and create a positive and motivated work environment for everyone.
This experience taught me that to truly move forward, you often need to set your pride aside. No one can do it all. It’s vital to ask for help, and to accept it when you need it. Embracing humility and being open to growth not only strengthens your leadership but also paves the way for progress in both business and personal life.
Thanks for reading, and I hope this story inspires you to face your own challenges with honesty and an open heart. Let’s grow together!
What’s holding you back from progress? If the answer is “marketing leadership,” we’re here to help. Contact us today to see how a Fractional CMO can help your business drive results and meet your goals.
