First time writer Kerri Twigg wrote a great summary this week on the importance of finding “your authentic voice” as a leader; on the value found in striking a balance between directive and supportive tones.  The authors of the book were literally referring to your voice – how you speak and interact with others – but the message resonated with me on a different level; namely, how to maintain a clear tone (or “voice”) as you scale. We’ve been growing at a […]

I came across this story this morning and thought it worth sharing:  http://enterprisestrategies.com/2012/07/30/a-social-media-success-story-ups/ (it’ll take you two minutes to read) I have no idea if @AndyJankowski is a big deal online.  My guess is neither did UPS.  The fact is it doesn’t matter.  From the sounds of the story, the response was personal, genuine and effective.  When your brand is interacting with the “real world” (and if you’re running a real business, then it is), you need to be aware of the impact. […]

So, follow this with me, if you will:   1.  I recently reached out to a very cool blogger named Willie Jackson, just to say hey.  (took me 90 seconds) 2. Because Willie is a self pronounced Seth Godin fan (as am I), I made reference in the email to an interview I recently conducted with Seth. (5 seconds) 3.  Willie decided watched the interview and, about three minutes in (from what I can tell), he tweeted about it.  (3 […]

Cleaning up the office over the weekend, I came across an old copy of my notes from The Long Tail.  (It’s a great book – you should 100% check it out if you haven’t already.) One of the ideas I took away from the book is this: “When your content is free, it doesn’t make sense to be boring.” Now, this is probably true with paid products as well, but I’ve got imagine it’s ever more important when you’re competing […]

Quick question about social media: When you use it, are you communicating?  or are you connecting? Communication is about facts.  Data, insight.  Sharing links, sending that funny video viral.  Connecting is in the moment, and fairly quickly forgotten under the barrage of more. Connecting is about making someone feel heard.  Understood, appreciated.  Sharing links, and then discussing.  Slowing down long enough to get to know someone.    Connecting is about conversations. I guess the question is, is social media the […]