When we talk about social media platforms there is a tendency to point to Twitter and Facebook as the platforms where we all agree that we spend a majority of our time online. When we need videos we go to YouTube. When we need photos we head over to Flickr. And when we need to update our professional resume, we head over to LinkedIn. But that’s exactly the issue. Many of us only invest time into LinkedIn when we’re nearing or at the point of need. I’m guilty of it too. It is the platform that they’re the most familiar with and trust the most. Here are a few. MORE >>

When I speak to groups or am interviewed about Facebook, I am often asked to provide examples of companies that are “doing it right.&# With well north of 500 million users who spend over 700 billion minutes per month on Facebook, companies are increasingly interested in how Facebook can be leveraged as part of their marketing campaigns. It’s only natural. Many companies jump in and set up a Facebook Page but aren’t really sure where to go from there. There is no strategy. No goals. No content calendar. The Facebook Page has been created and viola, all is done. Inconsistency. MORE >>

A little more than 2 years ago Chris Brogan and I were both attending the first Social Media Jungle event in New York so we decided to carpool down together. During those 5 hours or so of driving and over a dinner at a Chili’s in Middletown, CT later that night, we talked about a new project that he was launching. He was getting ready to unveil New Marketing Labs to the world and was close to signing the first contract which was going to be with Citrix Online (the folks who make GoToMeeting , GoToWebinar , and other similar products). With the new job comes a new place to explore. MORE >>

After a few months of brainstorming, planning and prepping, Jason Keath , Michael Brito and I are thrilled to announce the launch of The Socialized Business podcast. The first episode of the show is already live. During this first episode we discuss why we decided to launch a social business podcast, what social business means to us and discuss the future role of social media managers. In case you’re not able to listen to the podcast right now or are wondering a bit more information, I wanted to provide a brief overview of the podcast for you. What is The Socialized Business Podcast? MORE >>

What separates an elite military group such as the Navy Seals from others? They train non-stop. They train for every situation imaginable. They train for what happens when the plans fail. When they execute a mission they’re relying not just on their skills, they’re relying on their training. In business we need to think more like Navy Seals and train for situations that could endanger our community, our customers, our partners and our vendors. It’s in the preparation that separates the good from the great. 11 Steps to Developing a Digital Crisis Communications Plan. Marketing. MORE >>