As marketers, we should always be listening. Listening to the consumer, listening to trends and engaging (ugh, buzz word) with those around us. I tend to put collaboration and listening above anything else–there is so much out there that I don't know, and there is always something to learn. I collaborate on my blog and with my Twitter chat #u30pro. I surround myself with smart people so that I can have high-level conversations on a daily basis that make me think. They help me to think outside my comfort zone.


When did some stop listening? And why?
Some might call Gen Y entitled–but I'd rather call the ones I call good friends goal-oriented. They are always working toward the next big thing. We just graduated college and got the degree, and many are working hard in their careers to advance. Is this everyone? No. But somewhere along the way, many thought they knew it all, were already savvy and smart, and are too focused on competing to learn from those around them.
Shameless self-promoters are everywhere in social media. In fields such as public relations and marketing, where much is done behind the scenes, validation for work is more apparent in this space. But the listening principle still applies.
So, stop every once and awhile. Listen to those around you. Talk to those who challenge you on a daily basis. Those that advocate this philosophy–I know a few in Gen Y that do–they are succeeding by leaps and bounds.
What are your steps? Do you find competition driving, or do you listen? Is there a balance?