Relationships matterIf I had to sum up my call with Troy Singer, co-host of the Higher Ed Marketer Podcast and Digital Marketing Specialist at Ring Digital, in two words, that’s what I’d say. Troy is a proud Ohio State Buckeye alumn, seasoned marketer, and accomplished podcaster. His civic involvement is admirable, as he serves as a board member at multiple organizations in the greater Dayton metropolitan area. I was first introduced to Troy in July on my way to work through his podcast when I scrambled to learn as much about the higher-ed marketing industry as I could — fast! As I embarked on a new career in marketing, the Higher Ed Marketer Podcast hosted by Troy and Bart Caylor first served as a guide, then as a trusted friend riding alongside me into Atlanta each morning. A few short months later, I had to pleasure of meeting Troy in person at the AMA Symposium for the Marketing of Higher Education conference outside Washington, D.C. It felt like hanging out with an old pal as we talked podcasts and higher-ed marketing trends over breakfast. Troy made me feel welcome and included, which helped my inner introvert open up and get to know other folks around the conference hall. Yesterday, we had the chance to hang out virtually again, this time over Zoom, and discuss some of his recent podcast episodes, Ring Digital, and marketing-related topics. Here are 3 key takeaways from our conversation: Q 1: What advice would you give someone starting in their marketing career? A: Have a plan, work hard on the plan, but realize that you may encounter detours on the way to your destination. Don’t get discouraged, but keep moving forward, and you’ll eventually reach your desired goal. Q 2: What’s the best way to continue to improve one’s marketing skills? A: Consume as much content as you can that is distributed by respected marketing thought leaders, whether on podcasts, YouTube, blog articles, or LinkedIn. Q 3: What’s one of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your marketing career? A: Relationships matter! Both from a career perspective and in a way that will help you best fulfill a customer’s needs. (More about this in the video.)There you have it, folks, another great conversation with one of my marketing friends, sharing thoughtful advice and relevant insights. So, in 2023, do not ask what your connections can do for you; ask what you can do for your connections and build relationships that matter.Be sure to give Troy a fellow and listen to an episode of The Higher Ed Marketer Podcast. It’s full of great nuggets, my friends. Until next time!