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Advertising Quote by David Ogilvy

“I never tell one client that I cannot attend his sales convention because I have a previous engagement with another client; successful polygamy depends upon pretending to each spouse that she is the only pebble on your beach.” quote by David Ogilvy
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“I never tell one client that I cannot attend his sales convention because I have a previous engagement with another client; successful polygamy depends upon pretending to each spouse that she is the only pebble on your beach.”

David Ogilvy

About This Quote

Source Book: Confessions of an Advertising Man, 1963, Advertising

Describes juggling client commitments, likening it to polygamy where each client feels uniquely valued.

In simple terms: Balancing multiple clients requires making each feel exclusive.

Key Takeaway

Treat each client as a priority, not a competitor.

Themes

business client management relationships

Mood

strategic pragmatic

Type

professional advice

When to use this quote

  • advertising campaigns
  • consulting
  • sales meetings

Key Concepts

polygamy metaphor prioritization customer experience

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure genuine attention for each client?
  • What limits exist in managing many relationships?
A Different Perspective

Overpromising can damage trust.

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