Just Another Blog

Nothing else to say.

The best part of being part of an entrepreneurial venture is that things happen remarkably fast. Simply put, there is a lot less talk and a lot more action. Yes, I'm investing money and time and taking risks. In fact, every day we take risks, but that's the part I like most. We have really good motivation to experiment and try new things, and our culture is very forgiving when mistakes happen. 

How can businesses of all sizes instill the entrepreneurial spirit?  How can you talk less and act more?

I appreciate the debate regarding the effectiveness of social media, I really do. But at the end of the day, we are simply talking about a new form of communication. And it is two-way communication, that allows dialog when done correctly. People can post statements, comments or opinions. And others can respond. Just look at this exchange.

It all started with a simple post and someone listening. Listening for an chance to connect in a natural, non-threatening way. Sure, I took a chance nothing could happen; there would be no response. So what. And 1st Mariner could have brought us in and we turned out to be fools. But you know what? It didn't turn out that way. The chance paid off, for both parties.

I enjoy social media largely because I like meeting new people. And that is why I find social media easy. Meeting new people comes natural for me. If you are a people person, be yourself online. Be helpful. Be a little fun. If this doesn't come natural for you, that is ok. But don't have high expectations for social media.

I thought I would start the new Year without getting too deep, after all, most of us are likely feeling a little groggy today as we get back from vacation or the long weekend.

With so much talk of advocacy in the financial services world, why not dumb it down a little. When thinking of your brand or even your day-to-day existence ask yourself this. Are you helpful?