Fifteen years ago, I started NOW Marketing Group with a simple yet powerful belief: relationships matter more than transactions. What began as a passion for helping brands build genuine connections has grown into a thriving agency, an incredible community, and a movement centered around Relationship Marketing.
Check out my older expanded versions of these lessons.
Along the way, I’ve faced challenges, celebrated victories, and learned lessons that have shaped me as a leader and a person. Reflecting on this journey, I’m sharing 15 key lessons from 15 years in business—each one hard-earned and deeply meaningful.
- Relationships Will Always Outperform Transactions
People do business with those they know, like, and trust. Relationship marketing isn’t just a strategy; it’s the foundation of sustainable success. When you invest in genuine connections, your brand’s impact and loyalty grow exponentially. - Care More Than Your Competition
Out-caring your competition is the ultimate differentiator. We live in a world where most businesses focus on quick wins, but those who lead with empathy and service will always stand out. - Your Brand Is Built By the Stories People Tell About You
Marketing isn’t just about what you say—it’s about what your customers say. Every interaction you have is an opportunity to create a memorable experience that gets shared and shapes your brand’s reputation. - Hire for Heart, Train for Skill
The best team members aren’t always the most experienced—they’re the ones who align with your mission, values, and culture. Skills can be taught, but passion and alignment with your purpose are priceless. - The Right People Make All the Difference
A great company isn’t built alone. Surround yourself with people who challenge you, support you, and believe in your vision. The right team, mentors, and network will help you navigate the highs and lows of business. - Authenticity Wins Every Time
People crave authenticity. Whether in marketing or leadership, showing up as your real, imperfect self builds deeper trust and connection. Brands that embrace authenticity create communities, not just customers. - Consistency Creates Trust
Trust isn’t built overnight—it’s built over time through consistent actions, messaging, and commitment. Whether in content creation, customer service, or leadership, consistency strengthens credibility. - Marketing Should Be Magnetic, Not Disruptive
Instead of interrupting, attract your audience with value. Relationship marketing is about pulling people in with education, entertainment, and engagement—not pushing your message onto them. - Your Brand’s Biggest Asset Is Your Community
Customers are more than transactions; they are advocates, supporters, and partners. A thriving community amplifies your message, fuels growth, and creates loyalty that no ad spend can match. - Social Media Is Meant to Be Social
Platforms change, but the purpose remains the same—connecting with people. If you’re only posting to sell, you’re missing the point. Engage, listen, and build conversations that strengthen relationships. - Pivoting Is a Sign of Strength, Not Weakness
The business landscape changes constantly. Adaptation isn’t about giving up on your vision—it’s about adjusting your strategy to keep growing. The best leaders embrace change with confidence. - Boundaries Are Essential for Longevity
Saying “yes” to everything leads to burnout. Protecting your time, energy, and focus ensures that you can show up fully for the things that matter most. Prioritize what aligns with your mission. - Your Mission Should Be Bigger Than Money
Revenue is important, but impact is everything. A purpose-driven business naturally attracts the right clients, employees, and opportunities. When you focus on making a difference, success follows. - Failure Is a Lesson, Not an End
Every setback contains a lesson that prepares you for the next stage of growth. The most successful people aren’t the ones who never fail—they’re the ones who keep learning and moving forward. - The Best Investment Is in People
Whether it’s your team, clients, or community, the greatest return on investment comes from pouring into people. When you support, uplift, and empower others, the impact extends far beyond business.
15 Years of Building Relationships That Matter
Looking back on this journey, I’m beyond grateful for the incredible relationships, experiences, and lessons that have shaped NOW Marketing Group. The future of marketing isn’t about algorithms—it’s about people.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you’re a client, team member, Social Media Week Lima conference attendee (or past speaker), or someone who believes in the power of relationships, I appreciate you. Here’s to the next 15 years of building brands that care, connect, and create lasting impact!
What lessons have you learned in your business journey? I’d love to hear your insights—drop them in the comments!
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