Success stories to provide templates for social media and speaker placement programs

Every individual with access to a computer now has the ability to produce and distribute written, audio and video content globally, using free Web 2.0 technologies like blogs, podcasts and social software. 

How do we, as marketers, discern what makes sense for our companies?  Join us at our Chicago Tech Breakfast May 9 to hear Web 2.0 expert Chris Rollyson, of Christopher S. Rollyson and Associates highlight what's working through corporate success stories. He will also point you in the direction of some resources that can help you tap the power of social media in 2008.

In a separate discussion, Steve Susina of Laurus Technologies will provide examples of how you can grow your company’s thought leadership through effective speaking programs, drawing on his success at Laurus, Tellabs and UTStarcom.  You won't want to miss this session if you've been contemplating how to get your team up on to the podium!

For those of you who aren't focused on social media or speaking, we will also have an "Open Discussion" table, where you can discuss whatever is on your mind with members of the Tech Image team.

Take a moment to share one of your success stories or a question to fuel the discussion below.  The best success story will be recognized at the breakfast!

Comments

[Steve Susina]

Since I'll miss the Social Networking roundtable :) I thought I'd raise this question for discussion ahead of the meeing:

I've noticed that most people use their personal e-mail as their primary LinkedIn or Facebook address. Has anyone experienced a different willingness on the part of others to engage in business discussions (as opposed to job-search discussions) when initiated through social networking.

I'm beginning to try some business prospecting via LinkedIn, but I'm sensitive about violating personal/work boundaries on the part of those I'm trying to reach.

Thoughts?

[Mary Conley Eggert]

Great question, Steve. My experience has been that it works well for connecting on collegial matters (vendor search, job search, etc.), but it's all about trust, and even the strongest referral or pitch requires a foundation of trust, which can be started on LinkedIn, but needs to be developed offline (at least for now).

I have had success connecting clients with prospects online, and believe the endorsement is what allows for the transfer of trust vis LinkedIn or any social media.

I'd love to hear other's experiences.

[christopher S. Rollyson]

Hi All, I'm excited about talking with you all to share some stories from the front and to hear your experiences with enterprise social networking and Web 2.0. I'll share some examples from top CPGs as well as healthcare and, of course, high tech.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Chris

[christopher S. Rollyson]

Steve, I'm not sure I understand your question, but I'll offer a couple of thoughts in the meantime. To put it mildly, we're all in a massive upheaval in which the "social contract" is fading more every year. We are becoming "free" agents by default, with most CxO tenures hovering around 2 years, healthcare and pensions diminishing and costs and government liability increasing significantly. It means that our individual professional networks get more vital, too, because they are our true safety nets. However, employers are at various stages of recognizing this. Your question about the email is a good one. I counsel people in most situations to use their personal email on LinkedIn because the LinkedIn network and interactions transcend employer, and most LinkedIn members understand that and would network with you regardless. That said, it is easy to use a work email and change it if you change jobs because LinkedIn will maintain the connection. Of course, it would not be kosher to use a work email for conducting personal business. Since everyone does a mixture of employer- and nonemployer-related business on LinkedIn, it's generally best to go personal. Hope this helps! Chris