(I write this with my “snarkasm” filter cranked up to 11)

If you are like me, while on business travel, you are hanging around your corporate hotel room and suddenly it dawns on you. Hey! Wouldn’t it be great to have an exact replica of this room carefully tucked within my very own residence!

Sure this would be great–but think of the time involved in tracking down the exact bed runner, shower head, table lamp, the slightly used terry-cloth robe and the aromatherapy personal care products. Who has the time?

But wait!

The marketing wizards at Marriott have developed their own in-room catalog–providing an easy-to-follow online shopping roadmap–making this far-fetched dream an easy-to-obtain reality. Prices range from $40 for the projection alarm clock up to $3642 for the Complete King-sized bed package (Euro Sham, Euro Pillow, Accent Pillow, Duvet Cover, Matelasse Deluxe Bed Skirt).

If you are like me, your fingers will want to immediately run (not walk) to www.shopmarriott.com. Enjoy! – Doug.

There was a time, when it was possible to graduate from college, assume a position a marketing communications (graphic designer, copywriter, illustrator, typesetter) within a corporation, move up the corporate ladder–and receive a gold watch upon retirement.

Within my own professional career (dating back to1984), there have been 2 major "meteor strikes” within the creative/marketing profession. The initial blast took place in the mid to late 1980s, when the computer firmly established itself within workplace.

Those who failed to accept the new technology, floated out to sea on icebergs–with their little bags of corn, rub-down type and t-squares.

In the very early 1990s, the World Wide Web put down roots and quickly pulled the 'sheet' out from under the printing industry–taking with it the stubborn print-loyalists.

Who knows what lurks in the near future?

Chances are high, that another catastrophic event will cause yet another paradigm shifting shakeup.

How is one to prepare?

Is it possible to build a successful marketing communications career, that will span 40-50 years?

I would love to hear your thoughts and suggestions! – Doug.