Description

In this conversation, Kevin Sellers, CMO of Ping Identity, shares insights on marketing in Japan and the importance of simplicity in messaging. He discusses a failure early in his career and the lessons he learned about collaboration and decision-making. Kevin recommends the book 'Insanely Simple' by Ken Siegel, which explores Steve Jobs' approach to simplifying everything. He also shares his perspective on being a first mover versus a settler in a market. In this conversation, Kevin Sellers shares insights and experiences from his career in marketing and leadership. He discusses the importance of being the first in a market, citing Abraham Lincoln as a role model for character and integrity. Kevin also highlights the impact of John Anton, his former boss and mentor, who took a chance on him and changed the trajectory of his career. He emphasizes the importance of identifying competence in others and making decisions based on measurable impact. Kevin reflects on his decision to join Ping and the challenges of transitioning to a new business model. Finally, he shares a powerful lesson he learned from a CEO: the value of asking others for their opinions and fostering open communication.

Takeaways

• Be cautious about advice and forge your own path, as others' experiences may not align with yours.
• When seeking advice, consider the source's unique experiences and filters.
• Marketing in different cultures requires understanding and adapting to their specific preferences and values.
• Simplicity is key in marketing, as it helps to effectively communicate and resonate with the audience.
• Being a first mover or a settler both have their advantages, but true innovation and value creation are essential in either scenario. Being the first in a market can be more fun and rewarding.
• Character, integrity, and perseverance are important qualities in a leader.
• Taking a chance on talented individuals can lead to great success.
• Competence, confidence, and collaboration are key indicators of potential in others.
• Decisions should be based on measurable impact and business strategy.
• Asking for others' opinions and fostering open communication can lead to better decision-making and alignment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Best Piece of Advice

02:16 Marketing in Japan

09:08 Failure and Lessons Learned

13:18 Book Recommendation: Insanely Simple

22:56 Being First vs. Being a Settler

27:41 The Importance of Being First

28:02 Kevin's Role Model: Abraham Lincoln

30:31 Kevin's Personal Journey: John Anton

34:31 Identifying Competence in Others

38:18 Kevin's Decision to Join Ping

47:31 The Power of Asking 'What Do You Think?'