Those that have begun the process of using social media, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. start by being driven by a desire to get their name out on the web. They understand the value of being visible and being found but still use the tools as one way – push your message out there, vehicles. The [...]

They say life can change in the blink of an eye, but you never really appreciate how true that phrase is until someone blinks. On July 7, 2011, at 4:30pm, life blinked for my 20 year old son, Ben and the ripple effects of that blink reach beyond comprehension. He was hit directly in the [...]

If you aren’t using Twitter to connect with your customers – you are missing out on a great, real time venue. This weekend I discovered an article by Jeff Bullas about how the Fortune 100 companies are using (or not, as is the case) Twitter to be connected with their customers. It turns out that [...]

I have been working for EnviroScience as a contract writer, and in the process, I’ve learned quite a lot about Milfoilsand aquatic weed control. Each time I write something about a Milfoil weevil and the weeds they eat, I think two things: 1.  Lake Chautauqua. The lovely, shallow lake that the Chautauqua Institute is situated on [...]

Are you watching the news? Of course you are – how could you not? It is at times like this when we witness the devastation through no fault of anyone and the subsequent death, injury and homelessness that we should stop and count our blessings. We have a chance to make a difference – you [...]

I recently participated in the question of the week at Dr. Shannon Reece’s site Strategies and Tactics for Women (however, they work for men too). The question – how do you go about making your customers a fan of your business? Thirty seven people responded with their take on the situation – I am tip [...]

I just got my copy of Scott Ginsberg’s newest book, Ideas are Free, Execution is Priceless. It is a quick, daily read that offers insights, tips, motivations and a few reality slaps in the face. I love it.  Truth be told, although my Amazon copy just came in the mail, I took advantage of a [...]

The economy has taken its toll on all businesses, some more than others. But add to that fact, changing technology and the change in consumer buying habits and you have a more challenging operational situation. Borders Books announced yesterday that it is filing Chapter 11. On the same day I received a detailed email from the [...]

On Friday I had the pleasure of presenting my Social Media workshop to the participants of the Stark County Board of Mental Health during their annual conference. The group was lively and engaging and I had a great time.  During my discussion about social shopping and the consumer trend to connect with businesses, one of [...]

This past week I did my civic duty by serving on a jury trial in Judge Cosgrove’s courtroom. I’m not here to talk about the case - but rather want to talk about the culture Judge Cosgrove has developed in her courtroom. As part of the case (a wrongful death suit in which a medical practice [...]