I’ve found that the spirit of social medias is one of sharing, openness and honesty; the ones who are the most successful are the ones who are able to adhere to this spirit. The use of ‘prison’ here suggests to me that the author isn’t comfortable with the social media modus operandi.

I, for one, enjoy the relationships that I have built online, appreciate controversy for what it is, another perspective and think the world would be a better place with more people looking for more genuine ‘win-win’ relationships as cultured in most socnet relationships.

Mark Montoya
@MarkMontoya

1. The uptake in social media is because ultimately as humans we want to connect and be appreciated by others. You are unlikey to be followed by people who hate you (although Howard Stern made a sizeable living on his radio show from the majority of his listeners hating what he said most of the time but tuning in to see what he said next!). But many of your friends on Facebook or quite likely followers on Twitter are because they are interested in what you have to say – not because they want to be your BFF.

2. What is missing from this conversation and many around personal branding’s link to social media is asking two key questions, which Mitch Joel spoke to at a recent event.
a. Figure out the Why? – what are the reasons that you want to be on these mediums. If it is to just connect with BFF’s great , generate followers great, stimulate controversial conversations great – but be consistent.
b. Then worry about the What? – in other words determine your WHY before you even start to consider which ones to use.

If just connecting to your friends is key why choose such a public place as Twitter? You could use Facebook with private setting and some type of messenger service or just set up a complete Ning profile.

Me thinks you might not be being totally authentic with your intentions Juan – controversial enough for you?

Just my Toonies worth.

I am sorry that I used your post as an example for what is missing in our discussions on personal branding and which you can read about here: http://mindfulmarketers.blogspot.com/

But I hope that this will spark a meaningful exchange for all involved and enhance our process of self discovery.

Enjoy!

I try never to add the “good post! Keep it up!” comments. I don’t mean to be offensive but they look kind of lame. I don’t think most bloggers are so insecure that they need affirmations from total strangers.

On the other hand, I comment only when I slightly disagree. I have found that bloggers may not need the affirmations but if you publicly tell them they are wrong, they don’t like it much.

Please feel free to disagree completely with me. I can take it.

Melissa

P.S. and just in case I am wrong…Good post! Keep it up!

It’s weird to randomly message someone out of the blue. I mean, unless you’re a hot girl, people don’t really reach out to you.

Well, I guess I should be more specific. From my blogging, I have had many people connect with me through Facebook. I think this is awesome; however, it’s hard for me to take the time to connect with everyone. Unless I’ve had a deep interaction with this person, I probably won’t look at her images or notes.

I think Facebook is a great way to stay in touch with people you care about.

As far as brands, I have only seen the major brands tangibly benefit. Of course Coca Cola is going to have a huge fan base. They’re huge!!! But small mom and pops don’t really benefit as greatly.

I’ll check out your blog post soon enough

These are the sort of things that come back to haunt you later in life. Much better ‘being yourself’ by adding value to the community.

I just completed a response for him also: Personal Branding Liberates You from the Prison http://wp.me/py0kh-mp