Last week I attended the North American International Auto Show Charity Preview, as I typically do each year. While not the block-buster event of years past, attendance for the charity event rebounded some and over $2.5 million dollars was raised to support those in need.

More than ever before, new ways of thinking about the automobile were showcased and this picture of a three-wheeled car epitomizes the changing mood of this industry and the willingness of the public to consider what was never considered in the past (or even laughed at).

The same mood is washing over the marketing industry and our clients. For the small marketing firm, this “mood swing” has swung open the door of opportunity where previously gatekeepers once stood (you know who you are!). Our biggest challenge of 2010 will be taking advantage of this opportunity and meeting the demands of clients whose doors we didn’t dare dream of walking through last year. The key to success is collaboration—with other small companies, with big companies, with freelance talent. Collaboration will drive innovation and creativity in the marketing space—to service those leading the economic recovery.

A bit Pollyanna for those of you who know me, but I think 2010 will be a rockin’ year for marketers in more ways that one!