This weeks radio interview about executive coaching turned out to be both an excellent discussion with coach John Oberg, and a learning experience for the host of the show.
For the first 14 minutes there were technical difficulties with the Blog Talk Radio system that prevented me from hearing John. Therefore as the host of a live show I had my first experience with having to fill dead air. Oh yes, I just talked about my experiences with executive coaches and talked about how one always must have a "back-up plan" when participating in live events.
Fortunately, John kept calling in from different phones until we got a connection that worked, and we jumped in with both feet to discuss the topic. If you have ever wanted to more about how corporate coaching operates, then take the time to listen to this weeks interview.
Click Here to listen. It should be fun for some to hear me squirm for the first few minutes!
Have A Great Day.
thom
http://www.thomsinger.com/
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Saturday, September 29, 2007
She Called Me An "SOB" - And I Liked It (Successful and Outstanding Blogger)
Each week Liz Strauss calls a list of bloggers "SOB's". And it's a good thing!
Her ongoing list of "Successful and Outstanding Bloggers" is nearly two years old (this is week 101) where she honors blogs that "take the conversation to their readers, contribute great ideas, challenge us, make us better, and make our businesses stronger".
It made me smile. Thanks Liz.
thom
Calm Down People
This morning I stopped to put gas in my car at a small gas station / mini-mart. There were some cars lined up at so I had to wait my turn, but not very long. As I got out to do my business, a motorcycle pulled in behind me and used the second pump. He had entered from the left side of the pumps while there was still a silver Honda Accord in line to the right.
The woman in the Honda had to wait about another minute to get to her pump, and then she unleashed on the biker for cutting in front of her to get to the pump. Wow, maybe he did cut, (from my point of view she was awaiting a car that was about to clearly finish, and he came around the other side, but who knows...maybe she had planned to drive around and circle into the right at that moment), but she was nasty and mean spirited about her ninety second delay to get to the pump. I was a little shocked.
He was not going to take her word daggers, and launched right back at her calling her names that one might expect from a guy on a motorcycle. She tossed the "F" word at him, and he made references about her personal relationships in colorful language that again one could visualize coming from the bandanna headed biker.
Meanwhile we all still filled up our gas tanks. Even if he did take "cuts" in line (I am still not convinced he did that), it did not really impact her world. Nobody stole her dog or shot bullets at her, and I cannot imagine that the one point five minutes of waiting was worth her blood pressure soaring. Of course, he did not need to engage her in the verbal tongue fu. They both were acting without much class or respect toward their fellow man.
But this happens all the time. People judge a situation from their own vantage point and immediately attack others. I am not suggesting that one should not stand up for themselves, but sometimes the world just needs a big "chill pill".
Have A Great Day.
thom
The woman in the Honda had to wait about another minute to get to her pump, and then she unleashed on the biker for cutting in front of her to get to the pump. Wow, maybe he did cut, (from my point of view she was awaiting a car that was about to clearly finish, and he came around the other side, but who knows...maybe she had planned to drive around and circle into the right at that moment), but she was nasty and mean spirited about her ninety second delay to get to the pump. I was a little shocked.
He was not going to take her word daggers, and launched right back at her calling her names that one might expect from a guy on a motorcycle. She tossed the "F" word at him, and he made references about her personal relationships in colorful language that again one could visualize coming from the bandanna headed biker.
Meanwhile we all still filled up our gas tanks. Even if he did take "cuts" in line (I am still not convinced he did that), it did not really impact her world. Nobody stole her dog or shot bullets at her, and I cannot imagine that the one point five minutes of waiting was worth her blood pressure soaring. Of course, he did not need to engage her in the verbal tongue fu. They both were acting without much class or respect toward their fellow man.
But this happens all the time. People judge a situation from their own vantage point and immediately attack others. I am not suggesting that one should not stand up for themselves, but sometimes the world just needs a big "chill pill".
Have A Great Day.
thom
Friday, September 28, 2007
Next Week - Bootstrap Your Book Seminar
Bootstrap Your Book Seminar - October 7, 2007
Surveys suggest that 87% of Americans would like to write a book. Are you one of them? Come and listen to success stories of self-published and small-press authors to discover the advantages of bootstrapping your book.
Bootstrap Austin presents:"Bootstrap You Book: Real Life Advice On How and Why To Self Publish"
Date: Sunday, October 7, 2007.
Time: 5pm - 7pm
Location: BookPeople (5th and Lamar, Austin, Texas)
Panel of authors:Bijoy Goswami (author of "The Human Fabric")David Wolpert ( author of "Scoliosis Surgery: The Definitive Patient's Reference")Thom Singer (author of "Some Assembly Required" and "The ABC's of Networking")
Moderator - Tonja O'Neill
Surveys suggest that 87% of Americans would like to write a book. Are you one of them? Come and listen to success stories of self-published and small-press authors to discover the advantages of bootstrapping your book.
Bootstrap Austin presents:"Bootstrap You Book: Real Life Advice On How and Why To Self Publish"
Date: Sunday, October 7, 2007.
Time: 5pm - 7pm
Location: BookPeople (5th and Lamar, Austin, Texas)
Panel of authors:Bijoy Goswami (author of "The Human Fabric")David Wolpert ( author of "Scoliosis Surgery: The Definitive Patient's Reference")Thom Singer (author of "Some Assembly Required" and "The ABC's of Networking")
Moderator - Tonja O'Neill
Thursday, September 27, 2007
LinkedIn Rant - And A Challenge To Bloggers
Yesterday I was asked to connect on LinkedIn by someone I have never met before. I have read his blog (which is intelligent), but we have never corresponded with one another.
A few years ago I made the decision to only link to people via Linked In with whom I had a real business relationships. Because of my being a professional motivational speaker, I tend to meet large groups of people at one time (which often follows with LinkedIn requests from some in the audience), so I modified my LinkedIn protocol to only include folks with whom I have shared a meal or a beer. (I do make exceptions to this policy when I have corresponded in a Web 2.0/Social Media/Twitter/MySpace/FaceBook/Plaxo kinda way and feel a real connection or friendship has been established).
My point is that I want my connections on LinkedIn to actually be people I know personally. I want to feel I can freely call on them to make a legitimate introduction to another person in my network should the need arise. I do not want to have some arbitrary link to a stranger. I feel these links undermine the legitimacy of the network.
Anyway, I declined the LinkedIn invitation with the following:
I thought that was polite (maybe I am wrong), and I immediately received the following response:
"no problem by me whatsoever, but i disagree with your approach to linked in. linkedin is not a closed protected garden of contacts. it's a way to network with NEW people. the web is about sharing. you're not sharing and that's cool."
I am not sure how to react to this response. I am offended and feel I am being schooled by some guy I have never met who seems to feel very superior to me in the LinkedIn world. Is the web about sharing in all circumstances? I understand that people have different views on how to link to people on social networking sites, but I cannot believe that an hour earlier he sent me a note that read:
"Hi, after reviewing your background, I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn"
It sounded friendly and professional, but did he really mean:
"After reviewing your background I decided you could be beneficial to ME. I will never respect nor care about you or your beliefs, desires and opinions. I want to scan your contacts and see if there is anyone there who would be useful to ME. You see, I view LinkedIn as my personal tool to connect to strangers around the globe because if you are on LinkedIn, you are required to share with me, even though you do not know me. If you disagree, I will call you selfish. I want NEW people to call my own...AKA, I want YOUR people."
The funny thing is that if he had tried to connect on MySpace, FaceBook, or Twitter I would have gladly accepted the invitation, as I have different personal policies that I use on those sites.
This is the one where I want comments galore. Do not be passive, jump in the game today and leave your thoughts. I want other bloggers to write about this topic. Even if you disagree with me, I want to hear what you think about social networking sites and how your personal linking policy works. Are your contacts your real friends or just random digital links to people you know nothing about. What makes these services valuable, and what drives you crazy about LinkedIn (and the rest).
I challenge every blogger who reads this to chime in with his two cents on my dilemma on his or her blog. Come on, you know you were hoping to find a subject to blog about today anyway...make this your topic...leave the chorus and sing your solo about how you link, or don't link. Scream from the hilltops.
I will give a free copy of both my books, "Some Assembly Required" (second edition) and "The ABC's of Networking" to the first five people to email me at thom@thomsinger.com with a link to your new blog post with your opinions of social networking linking. That is two books that would cost some cashola on Amazon.com....FREE.... (please include your address in the email so I know where to send the books!).
Have A Great Day
and thank you for reading this rant!
thom
A few years ago I made the decision to only link to people via Linked In with whom I had a real business relationships. Because of my being a professional motivational speaker, I tend to meet large groups of people at one time (which often follows with LinkedIn requests from some in the audience), so I modified my LinkedIn protocol to only include folks with whom I have shared a meal or a beer. (I do make exceptions to this policy when I have corresponded in a Web 2.0/Social Media/Twitter/MySpace/FaceBook/Plaxo kinda way and feel a real connection or friendship has been established).
My point is that I want my connections on LinkedIn to actually be people I know personally. I want to feel I can freely call on them to make a legitimate introduction to another person in my network should the need arise. I do not want to have some arbitrary link to a stranger. I feel these links undermine the legitimacy of the network.
Anyway, I declined the LinkedIn invitation with the following:
"Dear_______,
I really like your blog. I do not add anyone to Linked In that I have not eaten a meal or had a beer with. OR, someone I really get to know well via internet, blog, etc...
I really like your blog. I do not add anyone to Linked In that I have not eaten a meal or had a beer with. OR, someone I really get to know well via internet, blog, etc...
I hope we stay in touch and can get to know each other, as I would love to add you to my linked in. I hope you understand.
thom"
"no problem by me whatsoever, but i disagree with your approach to linked in. linkedin is not a closed protected garden of contacts. it's a way to network with NEW people. the web is about sharing. you're not sharing and that's cool."
I am not sure how to react to this response. I am offended and feel I am being schooled by some guy I have never met who seems to feel very superior to me in the LinkedIn world. Is the web about sharing in all circumstances? I understand that people have different views on how to link to people on social networking sites, but I cannot believe that an hour earlier he sent me a note that read:
"Hi, after reviewing your background, I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn"
It sounded friendly and professional, but did he really mean:
"After reviewing your background I decided you could be beneficial to ME. I will never respect nor care about you or your beliefs, desires and opinions. I want to scan your contacts and see if there is anyone there who would be useful to ME. You see, I view LinkedIn as my personal tool to connect to strangers around the globe because if you are on LinkedIn, you are required to share with me, even though you do not know me. If you disagree, I will call you selfish. I want NEW people to call my own...AKA, I want YOUR people."
The funny thing is that if he had tried to connect on MySpace, FaceBook, or Twitter I would have gladly accepted the invitation, as I have different personal policies that I use on those sites.
This is the one where I want comments galore. Do not be passive, jump in the game today and leave your thoughts. I want other bloggers to write about this topic. Even if you disagree with me, I want to hear what you think about social networking sites and how your personal linking policy works. Are your contacts your real friends or just random digital links to people you know nothing about. What makes these services valuable, and what drives you crazy about LinkedIn (and the rest).
I challenge every blogger who reads this to chime in with his two cents on my dilemma on his or her blog. Come on, you know you were hoping to find a subject to blog about today anyway...make this your topic...leave the chorus and sing your solo about how you link, or don't link. Scream from the hilltops.
I will give a free copy of both my books, "Some Assembly Required" (second edition) and "The ABC's of Networking" to the first five people to email me at thom@thomsinger.com with a link to your new blog post with your opinions of social networking linking. That is two books that would cost some cashola on Amazon.com....FREE.... (please include your address in the email so I know where to send the books!).
Have A Great Day
and thank you for reading this rant!
thom
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
66 Tips For Better Networking - #37
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
You Are A Brand.
Guess what? You are no different from a multi-billion dollar organization. Nike, Starbucks, Disney, McDonalds, etc... all have brands and so do you. Everything you have ever done makes up how others see you. You ARE a brand. When people in your business community think about you they already have an image of who you are and what you do (are they right?). If they do not know you, they may have heard of you or about your company from other people in your industry (or city), thus they will have preconceived notions about your personality, integrity, character, etc...
Business guru Tom Peters launched the “self-branding” crusade with an article in the August 1997 issue of Fast Company Magazine called “The Brand Called YOU”. In this now famous piece (it is the most widely downloaded article on the Fast Company website), Peters challenged readers to take control of their future:
Have A Great Day
thom
www.thomsinger.com
P.S. - Have You Read "Some Assembly Required: How To Make, Grow and Keep Your Business Relationships"? Now is a great time to check out my book as you wrap up 2007 and start planning for 2008.
Additionally, if your company or law firm is planning a 2008 Strategic Planning Session, and you know that expanding the individual networks of those on your team...AND raising the level of corporate visibility in your community is important...contact me. I will be happy to come and speak at your event anywhere in the USA, Canada or beyond (Are you listening Ireland, my goal for 2008 is to come back and speak in your wonderful country!).
You Are A Brand.
Guess what? You are no different from a multi-billion dollar organization. Nike, Starbucks, Disney, McDonalds, etc... all have brands and so do you. Everything you have ever done makes up how others see you. You ARE a brand. When people in your business community think about you they already have an image of who you are and what you do (are they right?). If they do not know you, they may have heard of you or about your company from other people in your industry (or city), thus they will have preconceived notions about your personality, integrity, character, etc...
Business guru Tom Peters launched the “self-branding” crusade with an article in the August 1997 issue of Fast Company Magazine called “The Brand Called YOU”. In this now famous piece (it is the most widely downloaded article on the Fast Company website), Peters challenged readers to take control of their future:
Start right now: as of this moment you're going to think of yourself differently! You're not an "employee" of General Motors, you're not a "staffer" at General Mills, you're not a "worker" at General Electric or a "human resource" at General Dynamics (ooops, it's gone!). Forget the Generals! You don't "belong to" any company for life, and your chief affiliation isn't to any particular "function." You're not defined by your job title and you're not confined by your job description.
Starting today you are a brand.
If Peters is right, and I think he is, then you must make the same level of investment in yourself that we see large companies making to become an icon in the minds of those you encounter. I am not suggesting that you need a million dollar marketing budget or that you will be running full page advertisements in your local newspaper, but there are many things that you can do to promote yourself.
That is right, you need to promote yourself (I know, you mom said not to brag, but this is not bragging). Devote the time to think about your image and decide what actions you must take to raise you profile within targeted segments of your community. Different personality types will find different ways to do this, so I do not suggest you simply copy others, as to make self-promotion successful, you must make it part of you. But everyone should become comfortable with public speaking, writing and networking. Putting forth efforts in this area will help you become seen as an expert.
Take control and spread the word about what makes you a valuable asset to those around you.Have A Great Day
thom
www.thomsinger.com
P.S. - Have You Read "Some Assembly Required: How To Make, Grow and Keep Your Business Relationships"? Now is a great time to check out my book as you wrap up 2007 and start planning for 2008.
Additionally, if your company or law firm is planning a 2008 Strategic Planning Session, and you know that expanding the individual networks of those on your team...AND raising the level of corporate visibility in your community is important...contact me. I will be happy to come and speak at your event anywhere in the USA, Canada or beyond (Are you listening Ireland, my goal for 2008 is to come back and speak in your wonderful country!).
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Combining The Not-So-Obvious
Blogger, cartoonist and marketer Hugh MacLeod is a pretty interesting guy. His blog, that features his cartoons, opinions and other random stuff is widely read, and he has become a friend to many techies and marketers around the planet.
His two main marketing clients of whom he blogs often are Stormhoek Winery (a South African wine producer whom he has help launch to international fame...although I still can't find a bottle in Austin, Texas), and Microsoft (that little company in Seattle), for whom he has created the Blue Monster campaign; "change the world or go home!"
What is amazing about Hugh is the talent that he has employed to link the two together (Think of how Malcolm Gladwell can connect kindergarten and the plague). These two random companies with nothing in common have now been joined by the mind of MacLeod and the creation of Stormhoek Blue Monster Reserve, a private wine label exclusively for Microsoft.
According to MacLeod - "The wine is not a commercially available product, just a wee "social object" for geek dinners and people inside the Microsoft ecosystem". This is great marketing. Find two items that seem to have no connection, link them together, create exclusivity, and WAMMO - - people are talking. There is a stir of tech folks who want the chance to be invited to sip this vino.
I love it when two great things come together. When I was a kid and television shows would do "cross-overs" I was hooked (think "Six Million Dollar Man" and "Bionic Woman" or "Happy Days" and "Laverne and Shirley" having mixed episodes that tied together!!). Congrats to Hugh, I think this is genius. Heck, we are talking about it here at Some Assembly Required!
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
His two main marketing clients of whom he blogs often are Stormhoek Winery (a South African wine producer whom he has help launch to international fame...although I still can't find a bottle in Austin, Texas), and Microsoft (that little company in Seattle), for whom he has created the Blue Monster campaign; "change the world or go home!"
What is amazing about Hugh is the talent that he has employed to link the two together (Think of how Malcolm Gladwell can connect kindergarten and the plague). These two random companies with nothing in common have now been joined by the mind of MacLeod and the creation of Stormhoek Blue Monster Reserve, a private wine label exclusively for Microsoft.
According to MacLeod - "The wine is not a commercially available product, just a wee "social object" for geek dinners and people inside the Microsoft ecosystem". This is great marketing. Find two items that seem to have no connection, link them together, create exclusivity, and WAMMO - - people are talking. There is a stir of tech folks who want the chance to be invited to sip this vino.I love it when two great things come together. When I was a kid and television shows would do "cross-overs" I was hooked (think "Six Million Dollar Man" and "Bionic Woman" or "Happy Days" and "Laverne and Shirley" having mixed episodes that tied together!!). Congrats to Hugh, I think this is genius. Heck, we are talking about it here at Some Assembly Required!
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Blog Talk Radio Show - Week #7 - Liz Handlin of Ultimate Resumes
This week's show is a "Must Listen". Liz Handlin was a great guest. She has 20 years experience in the HR business, and Liz Knows Resumes!
Click Here to listen, or there is a button on the left side that will have her show live for one week.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Click Here to listen, or there is a button on the left side that will have her show live for one week.
Have A Great Day.
thom
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Nine-Year-Old Author
New Year Publishing is about to release a series of children's books by nine-year-old author / entrepreneur Paris Morris. The illustrated books chronicle the adventures of a young girl whose life changes when her parents add twins to the family. "I'm Having Twins" and "My Twins Are Coming Home" are the the start of her series.Check out her website, which has information about her upcoming books and also has free coloring pages and a chance to join her mailing list.
Those with twins in the family (or if you know families with multiples), this site is a must.
For all of you entrepreneurs who read this blog.... you gotta love a nine-year-old kid who decides to write her own books after seeing her mom writing! The entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the leaders of tomorrow!!!
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Friday, September 21, 2007
66 Tips For Better Networking - #36
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Sometimes when our lives get busy we rationalize that our networking efforts are frivolous and that if we just work late, or run home early it will not make a difference. Many business professionals have great plans for cultivating their connections and building real relationships, but when faced with driving across town to attend that business event or taking the time to schedule face-to-face meetings, they just don't have the extra energy. Thus they miss the chance to make that connection that can lead to real opportunities.
Have A Great Day.
Happy Birthday, Sara
My wife is HOT!
She is a great wife and mother and I want to wish her a happy birthday. The great part of having a blog is you get to say such things to the whole world!!!
thom
Thursday, September 20, 2007
VOTE Now!
Voting closes at end of day Friday, September 21st for the SXSW Interactive Festival.
There are 735 proposed panels and just about 100 spots, so your vote can make a difference.
Please go and vote for my panel! If you have seen me speak in the past, feel free to leave a comment on the voting page.
Thanks
thom
There are 735 proposed panels and just about 100 spots, so your vote can make a difference.
Please go and vote for my panel! If you have seen me speak in the past, feel free to leave a comment on the voting page.
Thanks
thom
Bootstrap Your Book Seminar - October 7, 2007
Surveys suggest that 87% of Americans would like to write a book. Are you one of them? Come and listen to success stories of self-published and small-press authors to discover the advantages of bootstrapping your book.
Bootstrap Austin presents:
"Bootstrap You Book: Real Life Advice On How and Why To Self Publish"
Date: Sunday, October 7, 2007.
Time: 5pm - 7pm
Location: BookPeople (5th and Lamar, Austin, Texas)
Panel of authors:
Bijoy Goswami (author of "The Human Fabric")
David Wolpert ( author of "Scoliosis Surgery: The Definitive Patient's Reference")
Thom Singer (author of "Some Assembly Required" and "The ABC's of Networking")
Moderator - Tonja O'Neill
Cost: FREE.
Bootstrap Austin presents:
"Bootstrap You Book: Real Life Advice On How and Why To Self Publish"
Date: Sunday, October 7, 2007.
Time: 5pm - 7pm
Location: BookPeople (5th and Lamar, Austin, Texas)
Panel of authors:
Bijoy Goswami (author of "The Human Fabric")
David Wolpert ( author of "Scoliosis Surgery: The Definitive Patient's Reference")
Thom Singer (author of "Some Assembly Required" and "The ABC's of Networking")
Moderator - Tonja O'Neill
Cost: FREE.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
The Future Of Employment
Imagine a company that came to an employee or potential employee and discovered what is their passion…their inner life’s spark (you know, the “if you could do anything” stuff). The executives in this business could craft a job to meet the person’s strengths and additionally find ways to help that person chase their dream. Think of how this company's staff would feel about coming to work knowing that everyone wanted to see the employees individually find balance in their life and prosper.
Everyone has different things that bring them joy. If they feel they must hide their passion at work they will never reach their potential. A company can engineer salary and responsibilities to meet the needs of an employee, creating a unique combination of flex time and performance targets.
Together a company and its employees can prosper. The individual can pursue his dream while working to make the business wildly successful.
Sound like a fantasy? It isn’t. There are companies out there that are seeing their future success depends on working with their staff to create a win-win work environment. No longer can a company just have a cookie cutter job description and expect the best talent to be excited about conforming to meet the mold. The future is carving out unique roles for unique individuals.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Everyone has different things that bring them joy. If they feel they must hide their passion at work they will never reach their potential. A company can engineer salary and responsibilities to meet the needs of an employee, creating a unique combination of flex time and performance targets.
Together a company and its employees can prosper. The individual can pursue his dream while working to make the business wildly successful.
Sound like a fantasy? It isn’t. There are companies out there that are seeing their future success depends on working with their staff to create a win-win work environment. No longer can a company just have a cookie cutter job description and expect the best talent to be excited about conforming to meet the mold. The future is carving out unique roles for unique individuals.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
66 Tips For Better Networking - #35
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
He said this happens sometimes between the ages of 35 and 40.
As I have passed the BIG 4-0 I have become much more at ease with my personal strengths and my weaknesses. I am no longer ashamed of the things I do not do well (I am a lame-o in most sports), and I am not as braggadocios about my talents. I am at peace with who Thom Singer is as a person, and happy with my place in the world. The image is no longer holding the same level of important.
I think this is important to grasp in our personal and professional lives. I meet a lot of young people (mid-twenties) who are very focused on proving themselves to the world. They love the image of success, without really understanding how it is attained. They buy BMW's on extended credit and act like they are hot stuff. I smile, because I walked that path, too (minus the BMW). I wonder if they are lucky enough to have a good dad who told them the "truth" so they will recognize their real soul when them meet themselves at age 40.
Ignore the image you have created and live as the person you are. Let you business associates see the real you, and you will create more powerful long-lasting relationships. Allow yourself to pursue your heart's desire. Embrace each day as the next step to attaining your goals. And be true to that voice inside that is showing you the way to success.
thom
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Blog Talk Radio Show - Week #6 - Chris Justice
This week I had a great conversation with Chris Justice, CEO of Sparksight. Chris is an expert in marketing and advertising with a unique understanding of the importance of social media and how this ever changing area is impacting companies.
The world of PR, marketing, advertising and corporate event management are all being turned upside down as a variety of emerging social media outlets. Corporations no longer control the public conversations about their products....customers and other observers are in charge. People are talking and smart companies are paying attention.
Is it scary for a 50 year old CEO or entrepreneur to accept that a bunch of 25-year-old technology enabled bloggers and discussion forum participants are going to have as much or more impact on her company's image as her highly paid PR firm? Yep, scary as hell. But that does not change the reality of a Social Media Web 2.0 world.
CLICK HERE to listen to this great conversation between myself and Chris Justice of Sparksight.
Have A Great Day.
thom
http://www.thomsinger.com/
The world of PR, marketing, advertising and corporate event management are all being turned upside down as a variety of emerging social media outlets. Corporations no longer control the public conversations about their products....customers and other observers are in charge. People are talking and smart companies are paying attention.
Is it scary for a 50 year old CEO or entrepreneur to accept that a bunch of 25-year-old technology enabled bloggers and discussion forum participants are going to have as much or more impact on her company's image as her highly paid PR firm? Yep, scary as hell. But that does not change the reality of a Social Media Web 2.0 world.
CLICK HERE to listen to this great conversation between myself and Chris Justice of Sparksight.
Have A Great Day.
thom
http://www.thomsinger.com/
Saturday, September 15, 2007
And The Oscar Goes To.....
My wife and I have begun renting all the Academy Award winning movies from 1960 forward (not in order, as Netflix just sends them as they choose). We came up with this idea after attending a wine dinner at the Alamo Drafthouse Movie Theatre (Film Noir and Pino Noir!), where they showed the movie "The Apartment". This 1960 Academy Award winner was quite fun, and they served wine from the MacMurray Vineyards (Actor Fred MacMurry was one of the stars of the movie). Additionally, all the food served at dinner were what the characters in the movie at during the show.
Since then we have seen about 5 of these old classic Oscar winners. While all interesting, the most amazing thing is the slow pace of some of these movies. We have to remind ourselves with each movie that Hollywood has matured over the past forty years, and the styles that made a good flick in the 1960s are just different today.
Last night we watched "Lawrence of Arabia", the 1962 Best Picture. I had seen this one before (we are skipping the ones we have BOTH seen....and therefore will NOT have to repeat viewing of my least favorite, "The English Patient"!). Lawrence of Arabia is nearly four hours long, and while the cinematography is phenomenal, we both fell asleep with about 45 minutes left. Any movie that has an intermission built in should not be viewed in one sitting!
Still, even at four hours long this film ran circles around "The French Connection" (1971) and "Tom Jones" (1963). Not that these were bad movies, they are just a crystal clear example that our culture has changed and our expectations of entertainment have become more demanding of constant action and stimulation.
Have A Great Weekend.
thom
Since then we have seen about 5 of these old classic Oscar winners. While all interesting, the most amazing thing is the slow pace of some of these movies. We have to remind ourselves with each movie that Hollywood has matured over the past forty years, and the styles that made a good flick in the 1960s are just different today.
Last night we watched "Lawrence of Arabia", the 1962 Best Picture. I had seen this one before (we are skipping the ones we have BOTH seen....and therefore will NOT have to repeat viewing of my least favorite, "The English Patient"!). Lawrence of Arabia is nearly four hours long, and while the cinematography is phenomenal, we both fell asleep with about 45 minutes left. Any movie that has an intermission built in should not be viewed in one sitting!
Still, even at four hours long this film ran circles around "The French Connection" (1971) and "Tom Jones" (1963). Not that these were bad movies, they are just a crystal clear example that our culture has changed and our expectations of entertainment have become more demanding of constant action and stimulation.
Have A Great Weekend.
thom
Friday, September 14, 2007
66 Tips For Better Networking - #34
Route 66 - The Journey Toward Success
Opportunities Come From People
Make it a priority to help others achieve their goals and you will be amazed at how it will improve your life. We interact with people everyday and have no idea what is going on inside their soul. People who work in banks, law firms, accounting firms and other businesses often have passions beyond their careers. When you discover what inspires people in their heart, you will have an amazing key to unlocking a more powerful relationship.
Discovering these interests are as easy as asking "besides your job and family, what really interests you?" or "if you could do anything in the world, what would that be?". These simple inquiries can open the flood gates to what makes them tick. Once you know this, you can become a conduit to their future success. Even if you cannot help them, you can be one of the people who support their dreams, and having support can make all the difference in the world.
People are drawn to people who take an interest in them. When you show them that you look at them as more than a co-worker, client or prospect....but instead as a human being, you will stand out from the crowd. Especially if the person is a client or a prospective client. Too often when we sell to people we see them as the "prize". The hunger to win the business makes the other person feel like a piece of meat.
If you look at your network of professional contacts and only see people as a path to attaining your success, then you are not really networking. Instead, look at how you can help other people. Uncover ways that you can be help others build a bridge to success, even if you get nothing in return.
When I help others, I love seeing the smile on their face. I do not expect them to repay me beyond a "thank you". Yet, opportunities come from people, and some of those you assist will find ways to later help you reach your dreams. Not everyone, but it only takes one special person in your life to launch your future into the cosmos.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Opportunities Come From People
Make it a priority to help others achieve their goals and you will be amazed at how it will improve your life. We interact with people everyday and have no idea what is going on inside their soul. People who work in banks, law firms, accounting firms and other businesses often have passions beyond their careers. When you discover what inspires people in their heart, you will have an amazing key to unlocking a more powerful relationship.
Discovering these interests are as easy as asking "besides your job and family, what really interests you?" or "if you could do anything in the world, what would that be?". These simple inquiries can open the flood gates to what makes them tick. Once you know this, you can become a conduit to their future success. Even if you cannot help them, you can be one of the people who support their dreams, and having support can make all the difference in the world.
People are drawn to people who take an interest in them. When you show them that you look at them as more than a co-worker, client or prospect....but instead as a human being, you will stand out from the crowd. Especially if the person is a client or a prospective client. Too often when we sell to people we see them as the "prize". The hunger to win the business makes the other person feel like a piece of meat.
If you look at your network of professional contacts and only see people as a path to attaining your success, then you are not really networking. Instead, look at how you can help other people. Uncover ways that you can be help others build a bridge to success, even if you get nothing in return.
When I help others, I love seeing the smile on their face. I do not expect them to repay me beyond a "thank you". Yet, opportunities come from people, and some of those you assist will find ways to later help you reach your dreams. Not everyone, but it only takes one special person in your life to launch your future into the cosmos.
Have A Great Day.
thom
www.thomsinger.com
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Attitude Defibrillator
Do you ever feel like your attitude has suffered a massive coronary? You want to see the glass as half-full, but it is just screaming "half-empty" so loud that you are dead on arrival?
We all have bad days, but sometimes those bummer feelings take over your life and limit your potential. You want a bright future, but all you see are gray clouds. On these days, wouldn't it be great if you could just shock your attitude back to life?
My friend, Chad Goldwasser, (one of America's top realtors) is a master at personal motivation. He has grown his real estate empire, The Goldwasser Team, into one of the most successful within the Keller Williams organization. He will tell you that one of the reasons for his amazing achievements has been that he has learned how to harness his positive attitude.
Hanging around with Chad is like having Tony Robbins as your best friend. He is always excited to see others reach their potential, and has launched The Goldwasser Institute to empower individuals to make constructive changes in their personal and professional lives. He has created seminars, motivational CD's and other training products that can jump start people who want to accomplish more in their lives.
His newest product is a CD titled "Attitude Defibrillator". It is based on his belief that while attitude is not "everything", choosing to attack your life with a positive demeanor will help propel you forward. I was having a "bad day" on Tuesday morning. I had a copy of the CD and popped it into my car's player....WAMMO... once the CD was done, I felt like I had received an electric shock that helped put my attitude back on course. Chad's words and his excitement were like a defibrillator restarting my positive attitude.
This new CD is available for purchase at The Goldwasser Institute website for $18. A small investment for a way to zap your attitude back on track. If you regularly listen to motivational materials in your car, this program is for you. If you do not regularly listen to such materials, maybe you should!
Have A Great Day.
thom
We all have bad days, but sometimes those bummer feelings take over your life and limit your potential. You want a bright future, but all you see are gray clouds. On these days, wouldn't it be great if you could just shock your attitude back to life?
My friend, Chad Goldwasser, (one of America's top realtors) is a master at personal motivation. He has grown his real estate empire, The Goldwasser Team, into one of the most successful within the Keller Williams organization. He will tell you that one of the reasons for his amazing achievements has been that he has learned how to harness his positive attitude.
Hanging around with Chad is like having Tony Robbins as your best friend. He is always excited to see others reach their potential, and has launched The Goldwasser Institute to empower individuals to make constructive changes in their personal and professional lives. He has created seminars, motivational CD's and other training products that can jump start people who want to accomplish more in their lives.
His newest product is a CD titled "Attitude Defibrillator". It is based on his belief that while attitude is not "everything", choosing to attack your life with a positive demeanor will help propel you forward. I was having a "bad day" on Tuesday morning. I had a copy of the CD and popped it into my car's player....WAMMO... once the CD was done, I felt like I had received an electric shock that helped put my attitude back on course. Chad's words and his excitement were like a defibrillator restarting my positive attitude.
This new CD is available for purchase at The Goldwasser Institute website for $18. A small investment for a way to zap your attitude back on track. If you regularly listen to motivational materials in your car, this program is for you. If you do not regularly listen to such materials, maybe you should!
Have A Great Day.
thom
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Austin Tech Happy Hour - TODAY 9/13/2007
The next Austin Tech Happy Hour will be this Thursday from 6pm - 8pm at Gruv (at 101 West Fifth Street), just a few doors down from Kenichi. Last month's event was much bigger, and thus very crowded, so a larger venue was necessary for September.
This event will be at Gruv, one of Austin's top nightspots, and the whole place will be exclusively for this happy hour. There is ample parking across the street and next door.
Click Here for the map.
ATHH would like to thank Compass Learning for sponsoring the September happy hour. As one of Austin's top employers, they are one of the nation's leading providers of K-12 education software. And a big thank the Young Men's Business League for their support!
If you live in Austin, and work around the technology industry, you do not want to miss Thursday night's Austin Tech Happy Hour.
Tell a friend!
thom
http://www.thomsinger.com/
This event will be at Gruv, one of Austin's top nightspots, and the whole place will be exclusively for this happy hour. There is ample parking across the street and next door.
Click Here for the map.
ATHH would like to thank Compass Learning for sponsoring the September happy hour. As one of Austin's top employers, they are one of the nation's leading providers of K-12 education software. And a big thank the Young Men's Business League for their support!
If you live in Austin, and work around the technology industry, you do not want to miss Thursday night's Austin Tech Happy Hour.
Tell a friend!
thom
http://www.thomsinger.com/
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