Chris Pirillo » Social Media http://chris.pirillo.com News and Reviews! Geek, Internet Entrepreneur, Hardware Addict, Software Junkie, Book Author, Once TV Show Host, Technology Enthusiast, Shameless Self-Promoter, Tech Conference Coordinator, Early Adopter, Idea Evangelist, Tech Support Blogger, Bootstrapper, Media Personality, Technology Consultant, Thicker Quicker Picker Upper. Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:06:19 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.5 en hourly 1 © chris@pirillo.com () chris@pirillo.com() Geek, Internet Entrepreneur, Hardware Addict, Software Junkie, Book Author, Once TV Show Host, Technology Enthusiast, Shameless Self-Promoter, Tech Conference Coordinator, Early Adopter, Idea Evangelist, Tech Support Blogger, Bootstrapper, Media Personality, Technology Consultant, Thicker Quicker Picker Upper. chris@pirillo.com No no http://chris.pirillo.com/wp-content/plugins/podpress/images/powered_by_podpress.jpgChris Pirillohttp://chris.pirillo.com 144 144 How Can Companies Hire Social Media Directors?http://chris.pirillo.com/how-can-companies-hire-social-media-directors/ http://chris.pirillo.com/how-can-companies-hire-social-media-directors/#comments Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:59:02 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=15720 How Can Companies Hire Social Media Directors? is a post from Chris Pirillo

I came across an interesting link today while browsing Twitter. The author writes about how companies who are new to social media are failing miserably when it comes to writing job descriptions for their newly-created social media positions. He goes on to say he used to blame the companies themselves for writing poorly-constructed ads. Then, he realized that it isn’t the company’s fault at all. They don’t know what they’re doing, remember? They are new to this whole social media scene, and may not even know what it is they are looking FOR, exactly.

How would you suggest a company create a position for this, and market it? What should they look for? How should their ads be worded to be the most effective? I think that the social media experts in our community are the perfect place to get ideas flowing, and help these companies out!

What have you read today that sparked your imagination and interest, or made you stop and think? Make sure you share the links with the rest of us, so we don’t miss out!

Don’t miss our downloads center today! There are some excellent deals for both Windows and Mac people!

]]> How Can Companies Hire Social Media Directors? is a post from Chris Pirillo

I came across an interesting link today while browsing Twitter. The author writes about how companies who are new to social media are failing miserably when it comes to writing job descriptions for their newly-created social media positions. He goes on to say he used to blame the companies themselves for writing poorly-constructed ads. Then, he realized that it isn’t the company’s fault at all. They don’t know what they’re doing, remember? They are new to this whole social media scene, and may not even know what it is they are looking FOR, exactly.

How would you suggest a company create a position for this, and market it? What should they look for? How should their ads be worded to be the most effective? I think that the social media experts in our community are the perfect place to get ideas flowing, and help these companies out!

What have you read today that sparked your imagination and interest, or made you stop and think? Make sure you share the links with the rest of us, so we don’t miss out!

Don’t miss our downloads center today! There are some excellent deals for both Windows and Mac people!

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/how-can-companies-hire-social-media-directors/feed/ 5 Are There Any Drawbacks to Being a Geek?http://chris.pirillo.com/are-there-any-drawbacks-to-being-a-geek/ http://chris.pirillo.com/are-there-any-drawbacks-to-being-a-geek/#comments Thu, 05 Nov 2009 07:58:57 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=15451 Are There Any Drawbacks to Being a Geek? is a post from Chris Pirillo

My mouth hit the floor when I read the title of this thread earlier on Geeks. A drawback to being a Geek – what?! Are you kidding me? Being a Geek is the best possible thing to be. We have it all – brains, looks, girls… what more could we want? The looks, well, just because they are funny looks at times means nothing. It’s just part of the total package that makes us so amazingly perfect, right? And the girls – ahhh, the girls – we all know that Geek boys get all the girls, right? Wait, what? You have trouble finding a girlfriend? Well, perhaps if you showered more often, and stopped being so nervous around the fairer sex. Fine. The looks and the girls may be lacking. But we have the brains! And the brains get us the money! And the money gets us more Geeky gadgets! Who needs girls, anyway?

Ok, time to get serious here, my fellow Geeks. Do you actually feel there are drawbacks to being a Geek? I’m interested in hearing your answers. For me – life is good when you’re a Geek. I’m comfortable with who, what and how I am… and I wouldn’t have it any other way. But I know that not everyone would agree, so let’s have it.

There are hundreds of excellent titles available at our downloads site, including games and other fun things to do!

]]> Are There Any Drawbacks to Being a Geek? is a post from Chris Pirillo

My mouth hit the floor when I read the title of this thread earlier on Geeks. A drawback to being a Geek – what?! Are you kidding me? Being a Geek is the best possible thing to be. We have it all – brains, looks, girls… what more could we want? The looks, well, just because they are funny looks at times means nothing. It’s just part of the total package that makes us so amazingly perfect, right? And the girls – ahhh, the girls – we all know that Geek boys get all the girls, right? Wait, what? You have trouble finding a girlfriend? Well, perhaps if you showered more often, and stopped being so nervous around the fairer sex. Fine. The looks and the girls may be lacking. But we have the brains! And the brains get us the money! And the money gets us more Geeky gadgets! Who needs girls, anyway?

Ok, time to get serious here, my fellow Geeks. Do you actually feel there are drawbacks to being a Geek? I’m interested in hearing your answers. For me – life is good when you’re a Geek. I’m comfortable with who, what and how I am… and I wouldn’t have it any other way. But I know that not everyone would agree, so let’s have it.

There are hundreds of excellent titles available at our downloads site, including games and other fun things to do!

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/are-there-any-drawbacks-to-being-a-geek/feed/ 7 Micah Baldwin – Building Influence Onlinehttp://chris.pirillo.com/micah-baldwin-building-influence-online/ http://chris.pirillo.com/micah-baldwin-building-influence-online/#comments Thu, 22 Oct 2009 07:16:43 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=15091 Micah Baldwin – Building Influence Online is a post from Chris Pirillo


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Micah is VP, Business Development and Chief Evangelist for Lijit Networks, the sixth startup Micah has been involved in (having sold his last startup, Current Wisdom, in the beginning of 2007). He came to Gnomedex to talk to us about how we can better build up our influence online, and come to have more of a presence.

Micah got his start as a university fundraiser, being one of the first to fuze online activities and marketing strategies into alumni fund-raising. In 1996, he sent one of the first email campaigns to help drive alumni fundraising. Over his career, Micah helped universities such as The Catholic University of America and the University of San Diego see their annual giving programs grow by more than 150%.

Focusing on business development, online marketing and advertising, and product strategy, Micah was instrumental in the growth of companies such as MyPersonal (now Synacor – IPO), ServiceMagic (acquired by IAC), Indigio Group (acquired by Bridgeline Software) and other less successful startups, such as Kozmo.com.

Micah has helped author several books on internet and search marketing, and started the #followfriday meme on Twitter, which has become part of the fabric of the social web. A frequent speaker and with appearances on CNN and articles in many of the leading blogs, including Mashable and ReadWriteWeb, you can read about Micah’s philosophy of success through failure at his blog, Learn To Duck.

Want to embed this video on your own site, blog, or forum? Use this code or download the video:

]]> Micah Baldwin – Building Influence Online is a post from Chris Pirillo


Add to iTunes | Add to YouTube | Add to Google | RSS Feed

Micah is VP, Business Development and Chief Evangelist for Lijit Networks, the sixth startup Micah has been involved in (having sold his last startup, Current Wisdom, in the beginning of 2007). He came to Gnomedex to talk to us about how we can better build up our influence online, and come to have more of a presence.

Micah got his start as a university fundraiser, being one of the first to fuze online activities and marketing strategies into alumni fund-raising. In 1996, he sent one of the first email campaigns to help drive alumni fundraising. Over his career, Micah helped universities such as The Catholic University of America and the University of San Diego see their annual giving programs grow by more than 150%.

Focusing on business development, online marketing and advertising, and product strategy, Micah was instrumental in the growth of companies such as MyPersonal (now Synacor – IPO), ServiceMagic (acquired by IAC), Indigio Group (acquired by Bridgeline Software) and other less successful startups, such as Kozmo.com.

Micah has helped author several books on internet and search marketing, and started the #followfriday meme on Twitter, which has become part of the fabric of the social web. A frequent speaker and with appearances on CNN and articles in many of the leading blogs, including Mashable and ReadWriteWeb, you can read about Micah’s philosophy of success through failure at his blog, Learn To Duck.

Want to embed this video on your own site, blog, or forum? Use this code or download the video:

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/micah-baldwin-building-influence-online/feed/ 0 Here’s What I Posted to Twitter Last Weekhttp://chris.pirillo.com/heres-what-i-posted-to-twitter-last-week/ http://chris.pirillo.com/heres-what-i-posted-to-twitter-last-week/#comments Wed, 14 Oct 2009 17:30:19 +0000 admin http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=14961 Here’s What I Posted to Twitter Last Week is a post from Chris Pirillo

]]> Here’s What I Posted to Twitter Last Week is a post from Chris Pirillo

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/heres-what-i-posted-to-twitter-last-week/feed/ 0 Are YOU a Social Media Geek?http://chris.pirillo.com/are-you-a-social-media-geek/ http://chris.pirillo.com/are-you-a-social-media-geek/#comments Tue, 01 Sep 2009 07:52:38 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=14310 Are YOU a Social Media Geek? is a post from Chris Pirillo

I’ve talked quite a lot about social media recently, with good cause… everyone is talking about it! It’s the hot new thing. Wait, no – that’s not right. Social media isn’t “new.” Why do people keep saying it is? The only thing that’s new is the name for it – Social Media. As I said in a video earlier, social media is simply a set of tools we can use to communicate. Heck, we’ve had tools to communicate online for years now. It’s just that today’s tools are so much easier to use, everyone can use them. You don’t have to be a hard-core geek anymore. You simply have to be able to get online, and type something somewhere.

It’s amazing and awesome to me to see the amount of people who are introduced to social media every day. The number of us who just seem to get it is growing faster than I can keep up with. There are those who scoff, claiming social media is a passing phase. HELLO! Where the hell do you get that idea? As I said – I’ve been immersed in social media for about 17 years now. How is that a passing phase?! Those are the people who don’t get it. They are the ones who don’t take understand the immeasurable ways that interacting with others online in this fashion can change their lives. They are the ones who are missing out.

So, I ask again – are YOU a social media geek? Do you get it? What IS social media to you, anyway – and how do you make it a part of your life?

You do know that I have a couple of social media-related sites, right? If you don’t, what rock have you been hiding under? Hopefully, you’re a member of Geeks, and follow what’s being posted on Lockergnome, as well. We certainly have a hell of a lot of people on those sites who GET social media. Why don’t you check us out?

]]> Are YOU a Social Media Geek? is a post from Chris Pirillo

I’ve talked quite a lot about social media recently, with good cause… everyone is talking about it! It’s the hot new thing. Wait, no – that’s not right. Social media isn’t “new.” Why do people keep saying it is? The only thing that’s new is the name for it – Social Media. As I said in a video earlier, social media is simply a set of tools we can use to communicate. Heck, we’ve had tools to communicate online for years now. It’s just that today’s tools are so much easier to use, everyone can use them. You don’t have to be a hard-core geek anymore. You simply have to be able to get online, and type something somewhere.

It’s amazing and awesome to me to see the amount of people who are introduced to social media every day. The number of us who just seem to get it is growing faster than I can keep up with. There are those who scoff, claiming social media is a passing phase. HELLO! Where the hell do you get that idea? As I said – I’ve been immersed in social media for about 17 years now. How is that a passing phase?! Those are the people who don’t get it. They are the ones who don’t take understand the immeasurable ways that interacting with others online in this fashion can change their lives. They are the ones who are missing out.

So, I ask again – are YOU a social media geek? Do you get it? What IS social media to you, anyway – and how do you make it a part of your life?

You do know that I have a couple of social media-related sites, right? If you don’t, what rock have you been hiding under? Hopefully, you’re a member of Geeks, and follow what’s being posted on Lockergnome, as well. We certainly have a hell of a lot of people on those sites who GET social media. Why don’t you check us out?

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/are-you-a-social-media-geek/feed/ 7 How Do You Get Started in Social Media?http://chris.pirillo.com/how-do-you-get-started-in-social-media/ http://chris.pirillo.com/how-do-you-get-started-in-social-media/#comments Tue, 01 Sep 2009 07:11:58 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=14308 How Do You Get Started in Social Media? is a post from Chris Pirillo


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It took me many hours to actually get this video recorded. It’s just not easy for me to do. I’ve been a part of social media since before social media was a title for something. I’ve been conversing online since 1992. That fact alone makes it difficult for me to attempt to tell you where you should start – never mind the fact that social media means different things to different people.

So what IS social media? For me, it boils down to a set of tools that facilitates conversation. Tools have gotten easier to use – they aren’t just for Geeks anymore! With the advent of sites like Facebook and Twitter, literally anyone and everyone can take part in social media. It’s everywhere!

The social media scene here in Seattle is quite vibrant. I’ve been fortunate to meet many of the movers and shakers due to attending things like tweetups. For me, the best ones are the ones where people show up with no hidden agendas… they simply just want to get together, share ideas and thoughts, and hang out. So we’re using the Internet to meet people in real life. We were doing that long ago – we just didn’t have the name social media for what we were doing!

With that comes a lot of people who really don’t know what they’re doing. Many people involve themselves in things like Twitter because they know it’s important – yet they don’t use it right. They just don’t get it, nor do they understand what they should be doing.

So Seattle is pretty active. What about your city? Do you have an active base of people in social media? How active are you in social media? Do you have a number of people who get together in real life after meeting online?

People ask me all the time how they can and should get started in social media. I could tell you that the people I met recently who just got involved in social media within the past six months are the people I look to for inspiration. They didn’t just join.. they get it. They started doing something, and utilizing the social media tools.

The key is to not talk only about what you’re up to – the key is to support what others are doing. Interaction will result, and people will start to support you, as well. Social media is very soilent. It’s all about people.

Want to embed this video on your own site, blog, or forum? Use this code:

]]> How Do You Get Started in Social Media? is a post from Chris Pirillo


Add to iTunes | Add to YouTube | Add to Google | RSS Feed

It took me many hours to actually get this video recorded. It’s just not easy for me to do. I’ve been a part of social media since before social media was a title for something. I’ve been conversing online since 1992. That fact alone makes it difficult for me to attempt to tell you where you should start – never mind the fact that social media means different things to different people.

So what IS social media? For me, it boils down to a set of tools that facilitates conversation. Tools have gotten easier to use – they aren’t just for Geeks anymore! With the advent of sites like Facebook and Twitter, literally anyone and everyone can take part in social media. It’s everywhere!

The social media scene here in Seattle is quite vibrant. I’ve been fortunate to meet many of the movers and shakers due to attending things like tweetups. For me, the best ones are the ones where people show up with no hidden agendas… they simply just want to get together, share ideas and thoughts, and hang out. So we’re using the Internet to meet people in real life. We were doing that long ago – we just didn’t have the name social media for what we were doing!

With that comes a lot of people who really don’t know what they’re doing. Many people involve themselves in things like Twitter because they know it’s important – yet they don’t use it right. They just don’t get it, nor do they understand what they should be doing.

So Seattle is pretty active. What about your city? Do you have an active base of people in social media? How active are you in social media? Do you have a number of people who get together in real life after meeting online?

People ask me all the time how they can and should get started in social media. I could tell you that the people I met recently who just got involved in social media within the past six months are the people I look to for inspiration. They didn’t just join.. they get it. They started doing something, and utilizing the social media tools.

The key is to not talk only about what you’re up to – the key is to support what others are doing. Interaction will result, and people will start to support you, as well. Social media is very soilent. It’s all about people.

Want to embed this video on your own site, blog, or forum? Use this code:

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/how-do-you-get-started-in-social-media/feed/ 3 I Get By With a Little Help from my Friendshttp://chris.pirillo.com/i-get-by-with-a-little-help-from-my-friends/ http://chris.pirillo.com/i-get-by-with-a-little-help-from-my-friends/#comments Mon, 31 Aug 2009 08:22:14 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=14296 I Get By With a Little Help from my Friends is a post from Chris Pirillo

Do you remember that song? If you’re as old as I am, then I know you’re singing it in your head now, simply from reading the title. It’s true, you know. We ‘get by’ with the help of our friends. Sometimes, they may not even realize they are helping us, yet they do – simply by being there. Life is full of unexpected surprises, both good and bad. We can’t always be superman (woman!) and just handle everything on our own.

It’s ok to reach out to someone when you’re hurting/mad/confused/pissed off. It’s ok to need someone to talk to. It’s ok to need your friends! After all, they need you, too!

So why am I writing about this, anyway? It’s not some deep thought, nor a cry for help, I promise! I just happened to hear the song on the radio a bit earlier, and it made me remember how thankful I am to have such an awesome circle of friends surrounding me. I hope that you have that in your lives, as well!

One great way to make new friends is to reach out to like-minded people on social networking sites, like both Lockergnome and Geeks. Search through titles of posts and read things that interest you. Here, let me make it easy on you!

]]> I Get By With a Little Help from my Friends is a post from Chris Pirillo

Do you remember that song? If you’re as old as I am, then I know you’re singing it in your head now, simply from reading the title. It’s true, you know. We ‘get by’ with the help of our friends. Sometimes, they may not even realize they are helping us, yet they do – simply by being there. Life is full of unexpected surprises, both good and bad. We can’t always be superman (woman!) and just handle everything on our own.

It’s ok to reach out to someone when you’re hurting/mad/confused/pissed off. It’s ok to need someone to talk to. It’s ok to need your friends! After all, they need you, too!

So why am I writing about this, anyway? It’s not some deep thought, nor a cry for help, I promise! I just happened to hear the song on the radio a bit earlier, and it made me remember how thankful I am to have such an awesome circle of friends surrounding me. I hope that you have that in your lives, as well!

One great way to make new friends is to reach out to like-minded people on social networking sites, like both Lockergnome and Geeks. Search through titles of posts and read things that interest you. Here, let me make it easy on you!

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/i-get-by-with-a-little-help-from-my-friends/feed/ 1 Putting the Me in Social Mediahttp://chris.pirillo.com/putting-the-me-in-social-media/ http://chris.pirillo.com/putting-the-me-in-social-media/#comments Mon, 31 Aug 2009 07:06:27 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=14294 Putting the Me in Social Media is a post from Chris Pirillo


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If you are posting media that isn’t social, then you are completely un-cool. All media needs to be social! I’m happy to report that I’m going to be featured in the Seattle Social Media Profiles! Sadly, I didn’t get to wear a crown for the day or anything. They do, however, want me to answer a series of questions, so here goes!

  • Name – Seriously? If they don’t know it, how did I get nominated for this gig? Ok, ok – I’m Chris Pirillo.
  • Occupation or company – I don’t know what my occupation is, really. I’m a Geek, and work for myself. I’m lucky enough to have made a career out of a personality disorder.
  • What is the best part of your job? – The commute time! I roll out of bed into this room, and I’m there, dude!
  • When and how did you end up in Seattle? – I originally started out in Iowa. I ended up here because I wanted to be here. I love the weather here in the Northwest, and the outdoors (even though I’m the Great Indoorsman).
  • How can people find you on the Web? – Google the word Chris. You’ll find me.
  • What is it about social media that attracts you? – The babes! Dude – seriously – have you seen the social media babes? They’re very attractive, except for that one that we won’t talk about.
  • How do you utilize social media? – I tickle it with my pinger! I use Ping.fm to sneeze out updates to sites such as Twitter, Facebook and more. I honestly feel that social media is using me, instead of the other way around. Maybe I’m just paranoid, but I feel like I’m being followed by thousands and thousands of people!
  • What is the one thing that the mainstream population should know about social media? – They should know it’s happening, whether they’re using it themselves or not. People are talking about you (or your company) whether you know it or not.
  • If people are following you on Twitter, what can they expect to read? – They can expect pithy quotes. Sometimes, I can be a little blue. I post links from people who post on Geeks and Lockergnome, or ones that others send to me that I like.
  • How would you describe the social media scene in Seattle? – Sometimes it’s very stinky, and other times it’s beer-y. In any sense, it’s a hot scene. If there’s a social media event, there will be hundreds of people who show up!
  • Do you remember your social media “WOW!” moment? What was it? – Uhm… I really don’t know. I don’t know if I’ve ever had a “WOW!” moment. It kind of just came upon me before I even really knew it, and I was off. I was doing social media before that even became a term!
  • What is one piece of advice you give to new users of social media? – Be yourself, and understand that transparency applies to you. It’s important. Don’t ever think you’re the exception to that rule.
  • Are you currently working on any projects that involve the use of social media? – Yes! I’m recording this as a video for YouTube right now!
  • Are there any social media events or conferences in the future that you would like people to know about? – Well, at the time of this recording we were getting ready for Gnomedex! That’s my annual tech/social media conference. I definitely recommend it, of course.
  • What are your hobbies? – I build LEGO sets!
  • Favorite vacation spot and thing to do there? – My favorite vacation spot is Costco, actually. I love their hot dogs with a large drink. It’s only $1.50!
  • Favorite restauraunt in Seattle? – Costco, of course! I love both the hot dogs and polish sausages.
  • Favorite thing to do in Seattle in the summer? – Well if it’s meal-time, I like to just go to Costco!
  • Favorite Quote? – I’d have to say the curly one!
  • Guilty Pleasure? – On a rare occasion, I will go to Costco, get a hot dog, and add sauerkraut!
  • Favorite actor/actress? – My favorite actor is Harrison Ford. I’ve modeled my entire career after him. I’ve been told I am the Harrison Ford of Geeks! I’ve worked very, very hard to attain that title.
  • “I really like it when…” – Someone goes out and gets a Costco hot dog for me! That’s the best, because I don’t like to leave my home environment!
  • “One day, I would love to…” – Finish this video! How long has it been already? Is anyone still reading/watching?
  • “If I could meet anyone, alive or dead, it would be…” – Someone alive! I wouldn’t want to meet a dead person. Can you imagine the awkward conversation? It wouldn’t go anywhere!
  • What would you like everyone to know about you? – What do you want to know about me? I’ll answer any question! I would like you all to know that I don’t take myself seriously, and that’s something I’ve been accused of on occasion. Does that make sense at all?
  • Who would you like to see featured on Seattle Social Media Profiles, and why? – I really don’t know. I’d like to see the person who has not been featured yet… because in social media, everyone is important. Just because a person is only followed by 10 people, it doesn’t make them any less important than someone who is followed by thousands. I’d like to see the person you’d least likely expect to be featured be the next one featured!

If you made it this far into the video, good for you! You’re a Geek just like the rest of us.

Want to embed this video on your own site, blog, or forum? Use this code:

]]> Putting the Me in Social Media is a post from Chris Pirillo


Add to iTunes | Add to YouTube | Add to Google | RSS Feed

If you are posting media that isn’t social, then you are completely un-cool. All media needs to be social! I’m happy to report that I’m going to be featured in the Seattle Social Media Profiles! Sadly, I didn’t get to wear a crown for the day or anything. They do, however, want me to answer a series of questions, so here goes!

  • Name – Seriously? If they don’t know it, how did I get nominated for this gig? Ok, ok – I’m Chris Pirillo.
  • Occupation or company – I don’t know what my occupation is, really. I’m a Geek, and work for myself. I’m lucky enough to have made a career out of a personality disorder.
  • What is the best part of your job? – The commute time! I roll out of bed into this room, and I’m there, dude!
  • When and how did you end up in Seattle? – I originally started out in Iowa. I ended up here because I wanted to be here. I love the weather here in the Northwest, and the outdoors (even though I’m the Great Indoorsman).
  • How can people find you on the Web? – Google the word Chris. You’ll find me.
  • What is it about social media that attracts you? – The babes! Dude – seriously – have you seen the social media babes? They’re very attractive, except for that one that we won’t talk about.
  • How do you utilize social media? – I tickle it with my pinger! I use Ping.fm to sneeze out updates to sites such as Twitter, Facebook and more. I honestly feel that social media is using me, instead of the other way around. Maybe I’m just paranoid, but I feel like I’m being followed by thousands and thousands of people!
  • What is the one thing that the mainstream population should know about social media? – They should know it’s happening, whether they’re using it themselves or not. People are talking about you (or your company) whether you know it or not.
  • If people are following you on Twitter, what can they expect to read? – They can expect pithy quotes. Sometimes, I can be a little blue. I post links from people who post on Geeks and Lockergnome, or ones that others send to me that I like.
  • How would you describe the social media scene in Seattle? – Sometimes it’s very stinky, and other times it’s beer-y. In any sense, it’s a hot scene. If there’s a social media event, there will be hundreds of people who show up!
  • Do you remember your social media “WOW!” moment? What was it? – Uhm… I really don’t know. I don’t know if I’ve ever had a “WOW!” moment. It kind of just came upon me before I even really knew it, and I was off. I was doing social media before that even became a term!
  • What is one piece of advice you give to new users of social media? – Be yourself, and understand that transparency applies to you. It’s important. Don’t ever think you’re the exception to that rule.
  • Are you currently working on any projects that involve the use of social media? – Yes! I’m recording this as a video for YouTube right now!
  • Are there any social media events or conferences in the future that you would like people to know about? – Well, at the time of this recording we were getting ready for Gnomedex! That’s my annual tech/social media conference. I definitely recommend it, of course.
  • What are your hobbies? – I build LEGO sets!
  • Favorite vacation spot and thing to do there? – My favorite vacation spot is Costco, actually. I love their hot dogs with a large drink. It’s only $1.50!
  • Favorite restauraunt in Seattle? – Costco, of course! I love both the hot dogs and polish sausages.
  • Favorite thing to do in Seattle in the summer? – Well if it’s meal-time, I like to just go to Costco!
  • Favorite Quote? – I’d have to say the curly one!
  • Guilty Pleasure? – On a rare occasion, I will go to Costco, get a hot dog, and add sauerkraut!
  • Favorite actor/actress? – My favorite actor is Harrison Ford. I’ve modeled my entire career after him. I’ve been told I am the Harrison Ford of Geeks! I’ve worked very, very hard to attain that title.
  • “I really like it when…” – Someone goes out and gets a Costco hot dog for me! That’s the best, because I don’t like to leave my home environment!
  • “One day, I would love to…” – Finish this video! How long has it been already? Is anyone still reading/watching?
  • “If I could meet anyone, alive or dead, it would be…” – Someone alive! I wouldn’t want to meet a dead person. Can you imagine the awkward conversation? It wouldn’t go anywhere!
  • What would you like everyone to know about you? – What do you want to know about me? I’ll answer any question! I would like you all to know that I don’t take myself seriously, and that’s something I’ve been accused of on occasion. Does that make sense at all?
  • Who would you like to see featured on Seattle Social Media Profiles, and why? – I really don’t know. I’d like to see the person who has not been featured yet… because in social media, everyone is important. Just because a person is only followed by 10 people, it doesn’t make them any less important than someone who is followed by thousands. I’d like to see the person you’d least likely expect to be featured be the next one featured!

If you made it this far into the video, good for you! You’re a Geek just like the rest of us.

Want to embed this video on your own site, blog, or forum? Use this code:

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/putting-the-me-in-social-media/feed/ 2 Are You Following Us on Twitter?http://chris.pirillo.com/are-you-following-us-on-twitter/ http://chris.pirillo.com/are-you-following-us-on-twitter/#comments Thu, 20 Aug 2009 19:48:52 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/are-you-following-us-on-twitter/ Are You Following Us on Twitter? is a post from Chris Pirillo

Are You Following Us on Twitter?

twitter.com/chrispirillo – We’re showing non-profits how to use social media to further their causes today. The volunteers placed on the back of this t-shirt are on Twitter… but are you following them? Take a look at voluntweetup.net/ if you’d like to know more.

]]> Are You Following Us on Twitter? is a post from Chris Pirillo

Are You Following Us on Twitter?

twitter.com/chrispirillo – We’re showing non-profits how to use social media to further their causes today. The volunteers placed on the back of this t-shirt are on Twitter… but are you following them? Take a look at voluntweetup.net/ if you’d like to know more.

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/are-you-following-us-on-twitter/feed/ 3 These are a Few of My Favorite Thingshttp://chris.pirillo.com/these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-things/ http://chris.pirillo.com/these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-things/#comments Fri, 14 Aug 2009 05:35:23 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=14188 These are a Few of My Favorite Things is a post from Chris Pirillo

I’m willing to bet that old song is now stuck in your head. If you’re too young to know and remember the song – well, you just missed out. Look it up on YouTube, and immerse yourself!

What are your favorite “things”? You cannot list people, as they aren’t things. We all know your family, friends and loved ones come first… that’s a given! I’m talking about honest-to-goodness things. Is your cell phone the best thing you own? What about your iPod, or maybe even your dual monitors? Heck, maybe your favorite things aren’t even tech-related. That’s ok, as well! I’m curious to see what everyone will list as being their favorite thing.

We’re so wrapped up with using our gadgets and gizmos that we sometimes forget all about human connections. We forget to take the time to really talk to others, and get to know them. Why not spend some time today checking out what the people around you are talking about? Go ahead – join their conversations!

]]> These are a Few of My Favorite Things is a post from Chris Pirillo

I’m willing to bet that old song is now stuck in your head. If you’re too young to know and remember the song – well, you just missed out. Look it up on YouTube, and immerse yourself!

What are your favorite “things”? You cannot list people, as they aren’t things. We all know your family, friends and loved ones come first… that’s a given! I’m talking about honest-to-goodness things. Is your cell phone the best thing you own? What about your iPod, or maybe even your dual monitors? Heck, maybe your favorite things aren’t even tech-related. That’s ok, as well! I’m curious to see what everyone will list as being their favorite thing.

We’re so wrapped up with using our gadgets and gizmos that we sometimes forget all about human connections. We forget to take the time to really talk to others, and get to know them. Why not spend some time today checking out what the people around you are talking about? Go ahead – join their conversations!

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/these-are-a-few-of-my-favorite-things/feed/ 3 Is Your Attention Spa… Cookies!http://chris.pirillo.com/is-your-attention-spa-cookies/ http://chris.pirillo.com/is-your-attention-spa-cookies/#comments Thu, 13 Aug 2009 02:18:41 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=14174 Is Your Attention Spa… Cookies! is a post from Chris Pirillo

OmniDragon read an article on CNET, which explains how Starbucks might ban laptops in their stores – because people come in there, buy a coffee, and sit on their computers (using the Internet for hours and hours at a time). He scribbled this:

I got to thinking about what you said last year during Gnomedex. I think it was on Twitter? Something like: “I wish everyone would put their laptops down and talk to each OTHER!” How is it possible that this machine is hindering me from communicating with other people? It’s my comfort zone. This is my TV, my radio, my telephone, my magazine, my newspaper, my IM client, my chat… my megaphone. When you’re in an auditorium listening to someone on stage with a microphone, you don’t need your megaphone. All you need is your brain. Maybe what helps people think is distracting themselves with something else?

Oh, I’m sorry. Were you saying something, dude? I was checking my tweets when you emailed me.

]]> Is Your Attention Spa… Cookies! is a post from Chris Pirillo

OmniDragon read an article on CNET, which explains how Starbucks might ban laptops in their stores – because people come in there, buy a coffee, and sit on their computers (using the Internet for hours and hours at a time). He scribbled this:

I got to thinking about what you said last year during Gnomedex. I think it was on Twitter? Something like: “I wish everyone would put their laptops down and talk to each OTHER!” How is it possible that this machine is hindering me from communicating with other people? It’s my comfort zone. This is my TV, my radio, my telephone, my magazine, my newspaper, my IM client, my chat… my megaphone. When you’re in an auditorium listening to someone on stage with a microphone, you don’t need your megaphone. All you need is your brain. Maybe what helps people think is distracting themselves with something else?

Oh, I’m sorry. Were you saying something, dude? I was checking my tweets when you emailed me.

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/is-your-attention-spa-cookies/feed/ 5 What’s the First Thing you do in the Mornings?http://chris.pirillo.com/whats-the-first-thing-you-do-in-the-mornings/ http://chris.pirillo.com/whats-the-first-thing-you-do-in-the-mornings/#comments Thu, 06 Aug 2009 12:59:40 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=14097 What’s the First Thing you do in the Mornings? is a post from Chris Pirillo


Add to iTunes | Add to YouTube | Add to Google | RSS Feed

My friend Traci records and uploads a weekly Question of the Day on her sites. Often these questions are philosophical and make you really think about yourself and your life. While I was visiting Hawaii this past week, I was able to help record one of the questions! I decided to ask: What is the first thing you do every day?.

The first thing Traci does in the morning is to thank her Higher Power for her life, and the blessings that she has. The first thing that I do, though, is to check my email! Do you honestly think I’m joking! You know me!!

What’s the first thing you do every morning, and why do you follow that particular routine?

Don’t forget to check out the excellent content being posted all around our community.

]]> What’s the First Thing you do in the Mornings? is a post from Chris Pirillo


Add to iTunes | Add to YouTube | Add to Google | RSS Feed

My friend Traci records and uploads a weekly Question of the Day on her sites. Often these questions are philosophical and make you really think about yourself and your life. While I was visiting Hawaii this past week, I was able to help record one of the questions! I decided to ask: What is the first thing you do every day?.

The first thing Traci does in the morning is to thank her Higher Power for her life, and the blessings that she has. The first thing that I do, though, is to check my email! Do you honestly think I’m joking! You know me!!

What’s the first thing you do every morning, and why do you follow that particular routine?

Don’t forget to check out the excellent content being posted all around our community.

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/whats-the-first-thing-you-do-in-the-mornings/feed/ 8 Social Networking in Hawaiihttp://chris.pirillo.com/social-networking-in-hawaii/ http://chris.pirillo.com/social-networking-in-hawaii/#comments Thu, 06 Aug 2009 11:35:54 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=14090 Social Networking in Hawaii is a post from Chris Pirillo


Add to iTunes | Add to YouTube | Add to Google | RSS Feed

My experience in Hawaii this time, as compared to last, is night and day in how I came away from it. This time, I went there with an open mind, ready to jump into the social culture, wanting to make connections and meet new friends. I was overwhelmed, to say the least. The people I met were awesome, very conscious of the impact that social networking has on the World. Many of them, like Ryan (@Hawaii on Twitter and just about everywhere else!), immerse themselves in social media on a daily basis.

Years ago, Ryan used to run a Mac-based dial-up bulletin board. He calls himself a “middle-aged Dad who loves Web 2.0″. He absolutely GETS social networking. He makes good use of all the services we know and love, such as Facebook, Twitter, Digg, and Delicious!

Back when I made the video a few years ago about reasons I wouldn’t move to Hawaii, Ryan took me to task. He wanted to make this experience different, so he made sure it rained! I felt so much more at home.

I was really impressed at how many people showed up to our little Tweetup. We had about 60 people in all. Ryan says that he has had ones with well over 100 people at times. People don’t realize how social of a culture Hawaiians are. They always have been, but the convergence of Web 2.0 and social media have made it even easier for them to connect.

Ryan says that all these years, he has felt that technology wouldn’t just sell you things… it would connect people and build communities, which is what he loves seeing hapen. He’s born and raised in Hawaii.

I asked Ryan what the general feel of social media is in Hawaii. It’s not confined to just us Geeks. You’ll see businsses there, as well as your everyday “joe”. People are learning, and the concept is quickly growing.

Hawaii definitely has personal interaction wrapped up. They have always been a sociable community. Now, by making use of places such as Twitter, they are showing the World exactly what impact social networking has had on Hawaii.

Want to embed this video on your own site, blog, or forum? Use this code or download the video:

]]> Social Networking in Hawaii is a post from Chris Pirillo


Add to iTunes | Add to YouTube | Add to Google | RSS Feed

My experience in Hawaii this time, as compared to last, is night and day in how I came away from it. This time, I went there with an open mind, ready to jump into the social culture, wanting to make connections and meet new friends. I was overwhelmed, to say the least. The people I met were awesome, very conscious of the impact that social networking has on the World. Many of them, like Ryan (@Hawaii on Twitter and just about everywhere else!), immerse themselves in social media on a daily basis.

Years ago, Ryan used to run a Mac-based dial-up bulletin board. He calls himself a “middle-aged Dad who loves Web 2.0″. He absolutely GETS social networking. He makes good use of all the services we know and love, such as Facebook, Twitter, Digg, and Delicious!

Back when I made the video a few years ago about reasons I wouldn’t move to Hawaii, Ryan took me to task. He wanted to make this experience different, so he made sure it rained! I felt so much more at home.

I was really impressed at how many people showed up to our little Tweetup. We had about 60 people in all. Ryan says that he has had ones with well over 100 people at times. People don’t realize how social of a culture Hawaiians are. They always have been, but the convergence of Web 2.0 and social media have made it even easier for them to connect.

Ryan says that all these years, he has felt that technology wouldn’t just sell you things… it would connect people and build communities, which is what he loves seeing hapen. He’s born and raised in Hawaii.

I asked Ryan what the general feel of social media is in Hawaii. It’s not confined to just us Geeks. You’ll see businsses there, as well as your everyday “joe”. People are learning, and the concept is quickly growing.

Hawaii definitely has personal interaction wrapped up. They have always been a sociable community. Now, by making use of places such as Twitter, they are showing the World exactly what impact social networking has had on Hawaii.

Want to embed this video on your own site, blog, or forum? Use this code or download the video:

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/social-networking-in-hawaii/feed/ 2 The Geeks Shall Inherit the Earthhttp://chris.pirillo.com/the-geeks-shall-inherit-the-earth-2/ http://chris.pirillo.com/the-geeks-shall-inherit-the-earth-2/#comments Wed, 05 Aug 2009 09:49:31 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=14049 The Geeks Shall Inherit the Earth is a post from Chris Pirillo

There’s an old saying in the Bible or some book that I don’t even remember for sure. It says “And the Geeks shall inherit the Earth”. A friend of mine argued with me the other night, claiming that it’s supposed to be the meek shall inherit the Earth. I beg to differ. I know what it says, thank you very much. We all know it’s pure fact that Geeks are taking over the World, and that we will one day rule inherit the World. Why haven’t you given in and joined us yet? You know you’re going to have to!

Seriously, being a Geek is an amazing thing. Geeks are not just computer guru’s, you know. A Geek is anyone who is passionate about something, whether it’s computers, motorcycles, or even gardening. Using this definition, it’s easier to imagine Geeks one day making a huge difference in this World of ours. What am I saying? We already have. Look at some of the strides in medicine, technology and science in just the past few years. There are an astounding number of new inventions, cures and gadgets on a daily basis.

If you could change the World somehow, make an impact so to speak, what would it be? Just imagine for a few moments that you have the brains/money/power to change any one thing. What would you do?

While you’re contemplating, make sure you take the time to check out what others are up to in our community!

]]> The Geeks Shall Inherit the Earth is a post from Chris Pirillo

There’s an old saying in the Bible or some book that I don’t even remember for sure. It says “And the Geeks shall inherit the Earth”. A friend of mine argued with me the other night, claiming that it’s supposed to be the meek shall inherit the Earth. I beg to differ. I know what it says, thank you very much. We all know it’s pure fact that Geeks are taking over the World, and that we will one day rule inherit the World. Why haven’t you given in and joined us yet? You know you’re going to have to!

Seriously, being a Geek is an amazing thing. Geeks are not just computer guru’s, you know. A Geek is anyone who is passionate about something, whether it’s computers, motorcycles, or even gardening. Using this definition, it’s easier to imagine Geeks one day making a huge difference in this World of ours. What am I saying? We already have. Look at some of the strides in medicine, technology and science in just the past few years. There are an astounding number of new inventions, cures and gadgets on a daily basis.

If you could change the World somehow, make an impact so to speak, what would it be? Just imagine for a few moments that you have the brains/money/power to change any one thing. What would you do?

While you’re contemplating, make sure you take the time to check out what others are up to in our community!

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/the-geeks-shall-inherit-the-earth-2/feed/ 5 How Do You Think Outside the Box?http://chris.pirillo.com/how-do-you-think-outside-the-box/ http://chris.pirillo.com/how-do-you-think-outside-the-box/#comments Tue, 04 Aug 2009 11:01:33 +0000 Chris http://chris.pirillo.com/?p=14018 How Do You Think Outside the Box? is a post from Chris Pirillo

My friend Greg is a dentist. Yet, he attends Gnomedex every year. You might be wondering why he would do that. After all, it’s a conference about technology, social media, and Human Circuitry. Greg says that the answer is simple: Gnomedex has at provided him the grounds for inspiration to act outside of his profession… and to think outside of the box. He’s always loved technology, and recognizes how it intersects with any type of business – including your local dentist!

How do you think outside of your box? Do you even bother? What helps push you past your own “limits” and expectations of yourself? I’m interested in hearing what it is that helps you push yourself to do more.

]]> How Do You Think Outside the Box? is a post from Chris Pirillo

My friend Greg is a dentist. Yet, he attends Gnomedex every year. You might be wondering why he would do that. After all, it’s a conference about technology, social media, and Human Circuitry. Greg says that the answer is simple: Gnomedex has at provided him the grounds for inspiration to act outside of his profession… and to think outside of the box. He’s always loved technology, and recognizes how it intersects with any type of business – including your local dentist!

How do you think outside of your box? Do you even bother? What helps push you past your own “limits” and expectations of yourself? I’m interested in hearing what it is that helps you push yourself to do more.

]]> http://chris.pirillo.com/how-do-you-think-outside-the-box/feed/ 0 How to Handle Remote Tech Support <em>Using <a href="http://www.gotoassist.com/chris">GoToAssist</a> is the easiest way to view and control another person's computer online. Use it to provide instant technical support to family, friends and customers. Start a session with just one click, and instantly connect with the other party. </em> chris@lockergnome.com (Chris Pirillo) Partner Mon, 13 Jul 2009 06:30:00 GMThttp://gotoassist.com/chris/ http://gotoassist.com/chris/ Network Tools for Windows You need these network tools, no matter which operating systems and networks you have to support. <a href="http://support.solarwinds.com/updates/New-Customer.cfm?ProdID=568&campaign=ipmon_DL_lockergnome&CMP=BAC-ipmonDL_lockergnome">SolarWinds ipMonitor</a>: Affordable Network Monitoring for SMBs. Get turnkey network, server and application availability monitoring with SolarWinds ipMonitor v9.0. This easy-to-use, reliable solution for SMBs delivers out-of-the-box availability monitoring so you always know exactly what's up with Active Directory, DNS, Exchange, FTP, Web, IMAP, MS SQL Server, and SMTP. <a href="http://support.solarwinds.com/updates/New-Customer.cfm?ProdID=568&campaign=ipmon_DL_lockergnome&CMP=BAC-ipmonDL_lockergnome">Download your free trial today</a>. Or, try their <a href="http://www.solarwinds.com/products/freetools/">totally free tools</a>! And, through 2/29, save 20% when you purchase <a href="http://store.solarwinds.com/s.nl/sc.16/.f">ipMonitor 9.0</a>. chris@lockergnome.com (Chris Pirillo) Partner Mon, 25 Feb 2008 06:30:00 GMThttp://support.solarwinds.com/updates/New-Customer.cfm?ProdID=568&campaign=ipmon_DL_lockergnome&CMP=BAC-ipmonDL_lockergnome http://support.solarwinds.com/updates/New-Customer.cfm?ProdID=568&campaign=ipmon_DL_lockergnome&CMP=BAC-ipmonDL_lockergnome Get Your Own Web Site Starting at just $3.99/month, web hosting from <a href="http://www.godaddy.com/gdshop/default.asp?isc=cp2">GoDaddy</a> includes 99.9% uptime, 24/7 support and free access to GoDaddy Hosting Connection, THE place to install over 30 FREE applications sure to help you get the most from your hosting plan and Web site. Enter <a href="http://www.godaddy.com/gdshop/default.asp?isc=cp2">code CP2</a> at checkout, and save an additional 10% on any order. <p>Plus, as a friend of Chris Pirillo, enter code <a href="http://www.godaddy.com/gdshop/default.asp?isc=chris7">CHRIS7</a>, that's C-H-R-I-S and the number 7, when you check out, and save an additional 10% on any order. Get your piece of the internet at <a href="http://www.godaddy.com/gdshop/default.asp?isc=chris7">GoDaddy.com</a>.</p> chris@lockergnome.com (Chris Pirillo) Partner Mon, 25 Feb 2008 06:30:00 GMThttp://www.godaddy.com/gdshop/default.asp?isc=cp1 http://www.godaddy.com/gdshop/default.asp?isc=cp1 VMware and Parallels for Virtual Machines It doesn't matter if you're running on Windows or Mac OS X - every power user needs either <a href="http://send.onenetworkdirect.net/z/13766/rn_a32755/">Parallels</a> or <a href="http://send.onenetworkdirect.net/z/17081/rn_a32755/">VMware</a> (or both). There's never been an easier way to test software without destroying your primary operating system's stability. Think of how many times you wish you could press a 'reverse' button on your computer. Plus, there's no easier way to try new Linux distributions - see what all the fuss is about. Run Windows in OS X, run Linux in Windows, but the best way to do either is with <a href="http://send.onenetworkdirect.net/z/17081/rn_a32755/">VMware</a> and/or <a href="http://send.onenetworkdirect.net/z/13766/rn_a32755/">Parallels</a>. chris@lockergnome.com (Chris Pirillo) Partner Mon, 25 Feb 2008 06:30:00 GMThttp://chris.pirillo.com/2008/02/19/parallels-or-vmware/ http://chris.pirillo.com/2008/02/19/parallels-or-vmware/ Coupons for Online Shopping <p style="color: red">This feed is fueled by Lockergnome <a href="http://www.lockergnome.com/buy/">Online Shopping and Coupon Codes</a></p> <p> Before you shop next time, see if we have <a href="http://coupons.lockergnome.com/">a coupon</a> first. </p> chris@lockergnome.com (Chris Pirillo) Partner Sat, 12 Jul 2008 07:56:13 GMThttp://coupons.lockergnome.com/ http://coupons.lockergnome.com/