When I interviewed at Treefrog in May 2018, I remember being asked about my five-year plan. At the time, I had just left a graduate program that unexpectedly wasn’t the right fit. My five-, 10-, and 20-year plans had just gone out the window. I don’t remember my answer, but I think it was a prettier version of exactly that. Well, I hope it was prettier.

As I leave my role as Content Strategy Manager, I couldn’t be happier that I took the chance to develop a new plan as part of the Treefrog team. 

While I’ll be back to visit the office dog, turtle, and even the ferrets, leaving Treefrog has been a difficult decision. At the risk of sounding too sappy, it feels a little like home. I’m excited for new opportunities, but mostly I’m grateful for all of the knowledge, experience, and relationships gained during my time here.

Because I know that I’ll be moving forward with new insight, I wanted to share five lessons I’ve learned as a Treefrogger: 

1. Empathy is an asset.

Any good marketer knows that being able to walk a mile in the customer’s shoes will make your message more effective. But in some workplaces, putting empathy first can be seen as a weakness rather than a skill.

At Treefrog, I learned that practicing empathy isn’t just a huge part of the company culture. It’s a driving force behind every piece of great, strategic content. When we work with clients and with each other, empathy is always at the forefront. It’s an asset, never a weakness. That’s a lesson I’ll carry with me everywhere I go.

2. Being a good culture fit is underrated. 

Work doesn’t feel as much like work when you’re a good culture fit. When you’re comfortable in your workplace, you’ll feel happier and more inspired. I’ve been fortunate to work with a team that makes being in the office fun. 

Being part of the Treefrog family taught me that the people around you shape your experience. But that means your attitude and approach influence the company culture, too. When you find a great fit, appreciate it and do your part to make it even better. 

3. You’re stronger when you’re part of a team.

Whether we’re working together to develop strategy or bouncing around funny ideas for Facebook posts, creativity flows best in a group. Our team is constantly collaborating on big and small projects to get positive results.

This work environment reminded me that there’s no way I can do it all—and that’s okay. We’re all stronger and more productive when we’re part of a team that’s dedicated to making every end product the best it can be.

4. Confidence is key.

When we first meet with a client, we encourage them to believe in their own expertise. After all, they know their business better than anyone else. Their confidence in their work fosters success for our projects and their company. 

When I came to Treefrog, I felt uncertain about my own skills and knowledge. By working hard and using my resources, I developed confidence in my ability to make decisions, create quality work, and help our clients. Even when I made mistakes, I trusted myself to use my experience to make a plan and keep moving forward. 

Having confidence in your talents helps you be happier, more successful, and more inspired every day. 

5. There’s always an opportunity to learn and grow, as long as you’re willing to take it.

Like I mentioned, I came to Treefrog without a plan. I was nervous to jump into an industry job and start something new. I wasn’t sure I’d find my footing anywhere. But when I saw the chance to join the team, I thought I should give it a try.

As it turns out, I couldn’t have asked for a better place to work with a more amazing group of coworkers and friends. I was provided the time to settle in, the chance to learn, and the freedom and support to take on new challenges that helped me become a better marketing professional.

The big lesson: From failures to successes, every experience comes with an opportunity to learn and grow professionally and personally, as long as you’re willing to try. 

As my time at Treefrog comes to a close, I’m excited for new opportunities and forever grateful for the skills and relationships I developed as a member of the team. 

– Kelsey Eversole

Our proven marketing protocol helps companies make more money, free up time, and plan an effective strategy.

Treefrog Marketing is an agency in Lafayette, Indiana focused on small business. We specialize in strategic marketing and advertising, graphic design, web design, social media, SEO, and more. For more information, please visit our website. You can also connect with us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram.