Chris Brogan's wisdom sought in SW Florida!

I attended a networking luncheon this week, and was seated at a table with five other professionals from various companies. The topic of social media came up in conversation. Two people didn't say anything at all and kept their noses down in their meals. Two people acknowledged it by saying, "Yeah, I'm on Facebook." Another said, "I tried Twitter, but it just didn't work for me." To which, one of the originally-silent folks chimed in, "Oh yeah, me too." -- and that person owns an internet-based business!

I was astounded! These individuals who are out networking, and have web sites, and even web-based businesses were of the opinion that social media was of no value to their business. How wrong!

Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and the rest are not fads that will be going by the wayside. They're the continuation of social media which began years ago with chat rooms and has exploded in popularity in recent times. And it's not just for teenagers. Many businesses and professionals have found great success with the platform social media provides. If you're not there, your competitor will be! If you don't take the time to learn and join in the conversation -- you'll be left in the dust.

Be sure to check out this wonderful article by Chris Brogan about 50 ideas for using Twitter for business. Chris Brogan will be presenting his strategies live on Saturday, September 12th here in Fort Myers at the Twestival in Southwest Florida. If you have any doubts about the effectiveness and necessity of social media marketing for your business, be sure to attend his presentation at 10am at the Sanibel Harbour Resort. The cost is only $35 and 100% of the proceeds to go benefit the PACE Center for Girls. There are tons of other events going on all over Southwest Florida throughout the weekend. Check out the Twestival site for details - or watch for it on Twitter with #twestival hashtag.

Meanwhile, off to continue my social media evangelism!