Hi friend,

There’s something about the “firsts” that stays with you. Whether it’s your first time at a new school, your first day at a new job, or even the first week in a new role—you never forget how those moments made you feel.

For many, that feeling is excitement, but for others, it’s pure anxiety. And let’s be honest—it’s often a blend of both.

I still remember my first day at my first “real” job after college. I walked into the office after the Memorial Day holiday and felt nothing. Nothing new or nothing old; just more of the same.

Now, for me: I had interned at O'Brien & Gere for about 2-3 summers and had a job offer when I graduated so the dress code, people, location, lunch menu... was all the same. My biggest revelation was that I didn't go back to school. Summer had come and gone, and the work was still there, and so was I.

It was a wake-up call that it was going to be all the same from here on out. Get up and go to work, day in and day out. So I'd better be sure I liked it.

So, this is my letter to you: the first-timers, the ones navigating the unknown. Here's some wisdom I can impart from my first job nearly 20 years ago.

Whether it’s your first week at a new company or your first day in a new role, there’s one thing I need you to remember: they hired you. You earned this.

Your potential and your presence are enough. When you show up as yourself, imperfections and all, that’s when the real magic happens.

Best, 

Kara 

Kara Rudy

COO, MarketDesign

Our team will be out of office for the following dates through the end of the year:

• November 27-29
• December 3-5
• December 24-January 1

Feel free to submit any requests, and we'll work on them as soon as we're back in the office.

YOUR TECH VIEW POINT:

Why the WordPress + WP Engine Clash Means It's Time to Switch to HubSpot

Navigating the complexities of website platforms is more important than ever, especially as the WordPress and WP Engine conflict raises questions about the future of the WordPress ecosystem.

At the heart of the issue is a debate over platform control and plugin functionality. WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg has expressed concerns about WP Engine’s influence, which could lead to fragmentation and unpredictability for businesses relying on their plugins.

For companies using WordPress, this situation underscores the challenges of managing third-party tools and maintaining a stable web presence. Compatibility issues, security risks, and support limitations are just a few potential obstacles on the horizon.

That’s why many businesses are exploring all-in-one platforms like HubSpot. With built-in features, enhanced security, and a unified support team, HubSpot provides a reliable alternative to decentralized systems like WordPress.

In our latest blog, we explore the implications of this conflict and discuss how businesses can navigate these changes with confidence. Whether you stick with WordPress or explore other options, staying informed is key to making the right choice for your business.