New Rule Added To My When In Doubt Don't Book. Negative comment, One Response, Then Move On

I post regularly on LinkedIn about streaming, advertising, marketing, success, and things that make me (and hopefully others) feel good. I respect this platform and aim to keep it business focused. My goal is simple: share insight that helps others. Honestly, writing it out helps me too.

A long time ago, a boss told me,

“The further you stick your chin out, the more likely it is to get popped.” Turns out, he was right.

From time to time, I receive negative feedback. That comes with the territory. Most of it is thoughtful, and I welcome healthy dialogue. Every so often, something off-base shows up.

Recently, someone I have worked with and known for years, posted a comment that was, negative, condescending, and full of half-truths (exactly with the post was about). I spent 17 years in sales leadership at that company and eventually left, in part, because of how they were handling CTV, streaming, and most digital. I won’t air dirty laundry, but I will say this: the experience shaped the DNA of the CTV | Streaming company I run today, which was built to be everything they were not.

Now to the point and the rule I’m putting in writing for myself (and maybe for others too):

If someone posts a false or negative comment on something I’ve shared, I will respond once. Quickly. Clearly. Confidently. Respectfully.

That’s it. No second rounds. No back-and-forth.

LinkedIn isn’t a playground for petty arguments. It’s a place for professionals to connect, grow, share ideas, and raise the bar. That’s the energy I try to bring every time I post.

Show strength when needed. Always take the high road. Stay classy no exceptions.

New rule’s in the books.

Good lesson for me.

Maybe a helpful one for you too.