Significant Career Lesson From a CEO and Co-Founder at Digital Niche Agency
Jason, CEO & Co-Founder at DNA, learned that checking one's ego at the door is crucial for success; this involves prioritizing "what is the best outcome for everyone" in challenging situations, focusing on productive discussions, and improving outcomes rather than assigning blame, which has had a significantly positive impact on their career and business dealings.
Executive/Leadership, Communication, Problem-Solving, Teamwork, Overcoming Challenges
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Jason Fishman
CEO & Co-Founder
Digital Niche Agency (DNA)
NA
NA
General Studies / Not Applicable
Finance (Banking, Fintech, Investing), Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Entrepreneurship and Business Owner
Worked 20+ Hours in School
Video Highlights
1. Check your ego at the door. Successful business requires navigating ups and downs, and confrontational discussions with team members and clients. Prioritizing the best outcome for all parties involved, rather than ego-driven demands, is crucial for organizational success.
2. Focus on productive discussions to overcome challenges. When campaigns underperform, the focus should be on solutions such as improving traffic, adjusting audience targeting, refining messaging, and optimizing the sales funnel. This approach is more effective than assigning blame.
3. Prioritize collaborative problem-solving over individual desires. Instead of demanding specific actions from team members or clients, focus on collaborative problem-solving to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes. This fosters positive relationships and improves overall results, even beyond measurable metrics.
Transcript
What is one lesson that you have learned that has proven significant in your career?
Check your ego at the door. Business has ups and downs. You're going to have confrontational discussions with internal and external team members.
Early in my career, I saw managers argue with clients, business owners, and CEOs. They focused on what they wanted to do, rather than what would benefit the business. I think that's a function of ego.
I've tried to bring this understanding to my conversations, dealings, and partnerships, and it's made a big difference. I ask, "What is the best outcome for everyone, for both sides of the table?" This is versus demanding that team members, clients, or partners treat me a certain way or leave. That approach does not serve the organization.
It's something I've learned and been able to apply, though it's not easy. There's always a startup that isn't hitting its goals and wants to point fingers. We try to focus the conversation on productive discussion points for everybody.
If a campaign isn't working to its full degree, we focus on how to get more traffic, change the audience or messaging, or improve the funnel. We focus on what can be done to improve standing, rather than taking offense. I've found this has had a positive effect beyond what's measurable.