How to lead with a 'Misfit' mindset

Why do misfits make the best PMMs?

Sarcastic Answer: Because no one understands what we do.
Real Answer: Because we see the world differently than most.

That unique flavor and perspective is what makes you so special. Let’s lean into it.

Welcome to the next episode of Dying 4 Influence. The weekly newsletter for misunderstood B2B product marketers.

Know how the best PMMs operate in B2B. Get a dose of knowledge to stand tall in a sea of unseasoned marketing.

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〽️ PMM stands for Product Marketing Misfit

In many ways, a PMM is synonymous with misfit.

We’re unique to our environment. We see the business differently than others. And at times it’s hard for us to adapt to our circumstances.

There are many ways to interpret a misfit, but here’s my favorite definition:

PMMs need to change how people think, feel, and solve their problems.

And for that, you need a never-ending curiosity. You have to push boundaries that feel uncomfortable. And for goodness sake, you should be living outside the box…not just thinking outside it.

But as we’ve seen many times, being “unique” has it’s challenges. And going against the grain is frowned upon in most establishments.

But don’t take my word for it. Just ask my good friend, Nikola Tesla

And now 100 years later, we’re all bitching about global warming and sustainable resources. Thanks, J.P.

And in 2024, your peers will admire Liquid Death but be too afraid to take “seamless” off the homepage.

They’ll talk about Canva’s rap-off for weeks, but your next launch gets downgraded to a blog post and email blast.

And according to Emma Stratton, it all comes down to one thing…

Fear. And I 1000% percent agree with her.

The status quo runs rampant across B2B. It’s a monster that swallows uniqueness and suffocates creativity.

People want to stand out, but fear being different.
They want to create a movement, but fear sharing their opinion.

So remember, there’s nothing wrong with you. There is just a bad case of the Fear Flu.

So as someone who takes great pride in being a misfit, here’s a few tips on how to lean into it:

1. identify the top 3 things that make you unique (person and as PMM)

2. communicate these 3 things as non-negotiables (manager / clients)

3. do unique projects and make variations…even if they never get shipped

I’m a misfit. You’re a misfit. And that’s where we fit in.

🎙Featured Episode:
_{Embracing the Misfit: Emma Stratton’s guide to “smart” product marketing}

Life isn’t ALL about messaging, you know?

Emma Stratton is leading the charge at Punchy. One of the most respected B2B Positioning and Messaging strategists in the world.

But to me, and to a lot of others, she’s more than just that. Emma is a staple of how to succeed as a misfit.

With no formal PMM or B2B tech experience, she commands the respect of PMMs and C-Suites across the globe. She is proof that success is about being yourself, finding harmony, and filling yourself with the things that give you energy

If you haven’t checked it out yet, head over to the 51 minute convo where we cover:

• 💀 Why Product Marketing is the "smartest" marketing there is

• 💀 Why work-life balance is a fraudulent idea, and how to create harmony

• 💀 Why it's important to be a misfit and let that part of you shine

• 💀 The Messaging Torture Chamber

• 💀 Her new book: ➟ "Make It Punchy"

Want to be a guest on our pod?

Line up at 9am EST for a chance to be on Season 3 of We’re Not Marketers.

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