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And if I do, how can I maintain a “personal&# touch? What a *great* question, thank you! The simple answer is you shouldn’t automate ANY part of your social media marketing, communications, product development, customer service, or talent acquisition efforts. At least, not until you understand social media well enough to know exactly how to use each social media channel to connect with your target audience. Do you really want to drive faster in the dark? Your mileage will vary. real person, or an anonymous entity? What your mom never told you about automating social media. Bakers.  MORE >>

A new report shows that LinkedIn – not Facebook and not Twitter – is the No. social network. If you think about it, that makes a lot of sense. Facebook is still a personal space for a lot of people. It’s a place to connect with friends and family. And, yes, if you own a business, then you probably use it for that too. But there is, and there will always be, an element of personal in Facebook. Twitter, on the other hand, hasn’t caught on in the mainstream just yet. And, who knows, it may never do so. But, as mentioned, it isn’t mainstream. That’s obvious. MORE >>

This post might be completely narcissistic. Sorry. By all means skip it if you like. But I had a really interesting conversation with some friends over on Google+ about the fact that social media can create really superficial vantage points. We can see a few tweets or a blog post or a Facebook status from someone and think we’ve got them all figured out. So much nuance can be lost in the midst of snippets of electronic and fleeting communication. By contrast, social media has and continues to bring me some of the most meaningful friends and relationships I’ve ever had. Or try. MORE >>

This is a guest post by Tony Hue. Sorry, Darren Rowse. just don’t have the commitment to build a better blog in 31 days. Nor do I have $20. In fact, I don’t think anyone needs 31 Days to Build a Better Blog. You have the talent, you have the passion, and, evidently, you have the desire to improve your blog. So join me, young Frodo. Let’s build a blog people want to read. In 7 days. Day 1. Look at you! Your blog is better already as you read this sentence! Pat yourself on the back! Alright. Before I continue, I will ask you 3 important questions. Why do you blog, Tony? Day 2. MORE >>