The client will say they want a unicorn turns out- after talking to them- they just need two cats and a raccoon.

My first expert from RONisms, an amazing book created by my team (with the help of some very clever co-conspirators) spotlighting some of my (best?) uses of metaphors and analogies.

This one’s my favorite. I’ve used it more than a few times in my career—and I’m pretty sure I’ll be using it again.

You know that first call. The one from a client or a sales rep who’s fired up because the company’s top exec just gave verbal signed off on their new #1 priority. It’s big. It’s bold. It’s going to “change the game.”

They’re talking VR experiences, a brand-new website, and a cross-country roadshow in a custom-built 18-wheeler. Budget? No object. Timeline? Yesterday. Vision? Magical. We’re talking full-blown unicorn.

But then… you get on the actual call with the client. And reality kicks in.

It’s not VR. There’s no truck. There’s barely a budget. What they really need is an email campaign with a QR code.

Not a unicorn. More like… two cats and a raccoon. Adorable? Yes. Majestic? Not so much.

And look, there’s nothing wrong with two cats and a raccoon. They can still do great things. But I am always cautious when I hear magic and glitter and wind-blown manes…..

More RONisms coming soon.