Seattle Social Media Profiles » SMC Seattle Board Members

Blake Cahill of Visible Technologies

admin — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:21:33 +0000

Do you know Blake Cahill? For a long time, I actually didn’t.

Of course, being heavily involved in the local social media community I knew of him, but surprisingly, it wasn’t until recently that I spoke with him for the very first time. How did I know of Blake? Well, to put it simply, he’s a very “visible” guy. First off, he’s the SVP of Marketing at Visible Technologies, which is one of the premiere social media monitoring solutions companies anywhere. Besides that, I also knew of Blake as a co-host of one of my favorite social media podcasts, Socializing Media. Finally, I knew of Blake from being on the SMC Seattle board (as we’re both board members). But other than those three things, I honestly didn’t know much about him.

But recently, at an event in Bellevue I met Blake for the first time and have since spoken with him on a handful of occasions. Having done so, I can tell you this: he’s much more than the Visible Tech/SMC Seattle guy who’s on the podcast I like. Beyond being those three things, I’ve learned that Blake is a very devoted family man, an athlete, an artist, and most of all, a great guy with a solid sense of humor.

Please take the opportunity to get to know Blake Cahill. He can be found at many events around the sound and if you see him around, go say hey. You won’t regret it.

Thanks again, Blake!

The Basics:

1. What is your name?
Blake Cahill

2. Email?
blake@visibletechnologies.com

3. What is your occupation/company?
SVP of Marketing at Visible Technologies

4. What is the best part of your job?
Working with leading brands and agencies that are defining engagement and measurement in the social channel with their customers

5. Originally from? When and how did you end up in the Greater Seattle area?
East Coast, Midwest, Europe…been here for 5 years and enjoy people, business climate and outdoor activities of the Northwest

6.How can people find you on the web?
@bcahill on twitter

Social Media:

7. What is it about social media that attracts you?
The openness of dialogue and exchange of ideas

8. How do you utilize social media?
To stay connected, on top of breaking information, to share and to learn from others

9. What is one thing the main stream population should know about social media?
That it is such a rich source of insight and the most powerful way to connect with others

10. If people follow you on Twitter, what can they expect?
That I share interesting information about the social media space and pass along learning from others

11. How would you describe the social media scene in Seattle?
Vibrant and thriving – so maybe great brands doing things (Alaska, REI, Comcast, Microsoft, Starbucks) it’s amazing.

12. Do you remember your social media “wow” moment?
The wow moment for me was winning the business of a major finance services firm over three years ago that philosophically understood then where we would be now and invested towards it. They are reaping the rewards for it.

13. What is one piece of advice you give to new users of social media?
Join, listen and share

14. Are you currently working on any projects which involve the use of social media? If so, what are they?
Too many to mention but am involved with UW on a couple of interesting things to support some of their classes and curriculums about new media, technologies and PR . Additionally, we did some very cool work earlier in the year with the AdCouncil around a site for Veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

15. Are there any social media events or conferences in the future you would like to let people know about?
Here’s a link to a sample of things we are doing. http://www.visibletechnologies.com/events.html

Just For Fun:

16. What are your hobbies?
Triathlons, road biking, and painting

17. Favorite vacation spot?
Newport, Rhode Island

18. Favorite restaurant in Seattle?
Olivar

19. Favorite things to do in Seattle in the summer?
Bike, Swim or run around Lake Washington or Lake Sammamish

20. Favorite quote?
“Our lives are connected by a thousand invisible threads, and along these sympathetic fibers, our actions run as causes and return to us as results” – Herman Melville

21. Guilty pleasure?
TopPot Old Fashion Glazed Donuts – they are the best!

22. Favorite actor/actress?
Robert Redford

23. I really like it when…
The sun is out!

24. One day I would love to…
Teach where I went to school

25. If I could meet anyone, alive or dead, I would want to meet…
Nelson Mandela

Blake Cahill Links:

Blake Cahill talks with Jeremiah Owyang

Blake Cahill talks with Charlene Li

Shauna Causey: SMC Seattle, Jolkona, & Comcast

admin — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:58:25 +0000

They say Superwoman is merely a character of non-fiction. I tend to disagree. I say she is very real and lives in West Seattle.

Among bright and passionate people in social media—or anywhere, for that matter—if Shauna Causey isn’t mentioned in the bunch, clearly you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting her. Always beaming with energy, Shauna is one of the most involved people I know. Besides doing her normal job as a communications and community relations for Comcast, she’s also an advocate for non-profits and serves on many boards, including SMC Seattle, Leadership Tomorrow, Reel Grrls, and Jolkona. And I don’t think this even covers it all—for one, I know she’s also involved with Twestival Seattle.

How does she find the time do all of that? Super powers. Yep, it’s true.

Get to know Shauna, wouldja?

The Basics:

1. What is your name?
Shauna Causey

2. E-mail?
ShaunaCausey@comcast.net

3. What is your occupation/company?
SMC Seattle Communications Director, Communications/Community Relations for Comcast, Washington state. I also serve on four non-profit boards.

4. What is the best part of your job?
Learning, promoting, simplifying and sharing great ideas, connecting people, working with non-profits, and having the chance to be involved in social media and work with some incredibly dynamic people.

5. Originally from?
I was born in Seattle and have never left. I live in West Seattle near Alki Beach.

6. How can people find you on the web?

Twitter: twitter.com/ShaunaCausey
Facebook: www.facebook.com/shaunacausey
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ShaunaCausey
Mister Wong article: tinyurl.com/mua7s8
FriendFeed: friendfeed.com/shaunacausey
YouTube: www.youtube.com/shaunacausey
UStream: www.ustream.tv/ShaunaCausey

I manage the Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook accounts for Comcast, Washington state:

Boards:

Social Media:

7. What is it about social media that attracts you?
The rapid acceleration of new ideas, the stage for new voices, the vehicle for social action. Making the world a little smaller by connecting people from all over the world.

8. How do you utilize social media?
It’s a major part of how I communicate both for work and personally. I listen and share information about high-tech and Comcast-related news, Social Media Club Seattle, and non-profit board service.

9. What is one thing that mainstream population should know about social media?
Technology is becoming personalized and social media is the venue to get information that matters to you. In its best use, it’s not simply a life-casting tool (“what are you doing now”)… It’s a way to share and receive ideas and mobilize people into action.

10. If people follow you on Twitter, what can they expect?
I’m a news junkie and I like social media and tech news and best practices, new ideas, stories, and anything relating to Seattle-area startups. You’ll also get Social Media Club Seattle info, non-profit and Twestival news and every once in a while, and something about what I’m doing (if it’s interesting enough to tweet). Probably around 90 percent news and ideas and 10 percent personal.

11. How would you describe the social media scene in Seattle?
Michael Arrington, Founder of TechCrunch,was recently in Seattle and joked about us being too nice in this city. Others say there’s a Seattle “freeze”and people in Seattle are difficult to befriend. I’d say yes, we are nice. Yes, it can be hard to break into some Seattle niches. But, Seattle’s social media scene has a transformative power that is melting that urban myth that there’s a “Seattle freeze” and helping us here in Seattle become more honest and transparent.

12. Do you remember your social media “wow” moment?
Early this year, I planned a social media non-profit training (as part of a massive volunteer event called Comcast Cares Day#CCDay). I was unsure if it would be a success. In the end, we had around 25 seasoned social media people training 20 non-profits. Our hashtag was one of the top 10 words on Twitter across the world that day (thanks in part to the social media tent) and we garnered over 2,000 live-streaming views. I realized that using social media to forge opportunities, involve creative people, and reach an audience of interested people is extremely powerful. In this case, Chris Pirillo, Brad Butner, Charl Pearce, Kenji Onozawa, Jodi Church, Mike Foley, Doug Winfield, and so many others made it a great event. I am in awe of our social media community here.

13. What is one piece of advice you give to new users of social media?
Be generous with your time and attention. Listen. Remember that even though it’s a web-based tool, it’s still 100 percent about the people behind the avatar.

14. Are you currently working on any projects that involve the use of social media?
Yes, there are quite a few. I am always working on a few different projects that involve social media for work and for fun. I just joined the board of directors for Jolkona, an amazing local non-profit that does a great job of using social media. I am hosting a new show for Seattle 2.0, where we’re interviewing Seattle-area startups, called “Startup Builders.” I’m in the midst of planning the next Comcast social media training for non-profits (@Voluntweetup). I’m also helping Doug Winfield with Twestival, a non-profit event planned and executed on Twitter and working with Chris Pirillo to help with Gnomedex, a local tech conference. I’ve been having a great time helping some of our Seattle-area elected officials learn how to use social media. I’ve also got another idea in the works and hope to announce that soon.

15. Are there any social media events or conferences in the future you would like to let people know about?

Ongoing:Social Media Club Seattle monthly meetups. Info is at www.SMCSeattle.com.
August 20:Comcast Social Media Non-Profit Conference (twitter.com/Voluntweetup on Twitter). We hope to have these ongoing.
August 20-22: Gnomedex twitter.com/Gnomedex on Twitter or www.Gnomedex.com.
September 12: Twestival Seattle twitter.com/TwestivalSea.

Just For Fun:

16. What are your hobbies?
Beach volleyball, snowboarding, reading hyperlocal blogs like the West Seattle Blog, volunteering, and helping with local non-profit and tech events. I also enjoy perusing the real-estate market by using companies like Zillow and Redfin to find properties for friends.

17. Favorite vacation spot? Thing to do there?
Alderbrook Resort on Hood Canal is a favorite. The other one is a surfing and fishing village: Sayulita, Mexico. Great taco stands and the beach volleyball is always fun.

18. Favorite restaurant in Seattle?
Umi Sake House

19. Favorite things to do in Seattle in the summer?
Play volleyball on Alki Beach, relax in a hammock on the deck, and take my dog, Roxy, for walks around the neighborhood.

20. Favorite quote?
“They say that time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself.” –Andy Warhol

21. Guilty pleasure?
Movies. I watch quite a few movies and enjoy watching them from my living room (On Demand). I also love anything with ice: snow cones, slurpees, frappacinos, and margaritas.

22. Favorite actor/actress?
That’s a tough one. Jeremy Piven, maybe.

23. I really like it when…
I see other people put somebody else’s needs before their own.

24. One day I would love to…
Volunteer for a service project in another country. I worked at an orphanage in Costa Rica for a few weeks in college and it was incredibly tough to pull myself away from civilization and technology at first. In the end, it was a life-altering experience that is one of my favorite memories.

25. If I could meet anyone, alive or dead, I would want to meet…
Wow, I’ve had some amazing friends and mentors that I’ve already been lucky enough to know. Other than that, I guess the famous people would be Jesus, Jim Gaffigan, Brian Regan, Tim Russert, Bruce Springsteen, Oprah, and Stephen Colbert. A pretty big mix of faith, news, comedy, music, and one zany personality.

26. What would you like everyone to know about you?
I’d rather know more about other people.

BONUS QUESTION: Who would you like to see featured on Seattle Social Media Profiles?
I’d love to see Tracy Record and Charl Pearce. They are dynamic amazing women and we’re lucky to have them in Seattle. Their Twitter updates are a wonderful mix of news and information and a great funnel for, in my opinion, the most interesting information in Seattle. Also, Kenji Onozawa. Have you heard of that guy?

SHAUNA CAUSEY LINKS

VIDEO: Shauna Causey at SMC Seattle

Kevin Urie: President of SMC Seattle

admin — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 18:00:48 +0000

Many people have contributed to the idea of community, but one person in particular who has left a large footprint is Kevin Urie.

Since January, the Seattle social media community has been booming—Social Media Club Seattle events have been selling out with 200 people in attendance, tweetups are occurring on a weekly basis, and more and more new faces are finding the value in this whole “social media thing.” It’s an exciting time to be in this space. So, what happened in January? Social Media Club Seattle had it’s very first event. And without our next profiled member, the community here in Seattle probably wouldn’t be what it is today: active, vibrant, and growing.

You see, Kevin is the President of SMC Seattle; without him, the social media scene here in Seattle probably wouldn’t be what it is today. In fact, Kevin is so well respected in this scene that even Mashable took notice of him when they wrote their article, “Social Media Hub: Seattle.” In it, Ben Parr writes of Kevin:

If Veronica Wei Sopher is at the heart of Seattle’s social media scene, then Kevin Urie [@KevinUrie] is definitely one of its leaders. Not only did he help bring Social Media Club back to Seattle, but he is constantly drumming up grassroots support for social media in Seattle.

I for one, couldn’t agree more. Please get to know Kevin. In fact, go say “Hi” to him on Thursday at SMC Seattle’s July event!

NOTE: This is NOT the “Kevin Urie” we’re talking about: KevinUrie.com. Although maybe Kevin should grow a Magnum P.I. ’stache?

The Basics:

1. What is your name?
Kevin Urie

2. E-mail?
kevin at changeitmarketing dot com

3. What is your occupation/company?
Digital Evangelist (weird title, but it describes what I do well) at Destination Marketing.

4. What is the best part of your job?
Talking with companies about things I am truly passionate about. There is nothing better than seeing an idea that I believe in implemented and then lead to great results.

5. Originally from? When and how did you end up in the Greater Seattle area?
Born and raised in Shoreline, Washington, then took a brief stint in Southern California for college, but had to return because I missed the amazing people in Seattle.

6. How can people find you on the web?
changeitmarketing.com (will start blogging again soon with revamped site I am working on); Twitter – @kevinurie; FB – www.facebook.com/kevinurie; and Destmark.com.

Social Media:

7. What is it about social media that attracts you?
The radical departure it takes from traditional marketing. It truly levels a playing field more than any other medium.

It allows anyone with good ideas to get their ideas heard and the best companies, large or small, to really rise to the top, not just the ones with the largest ad budgets necessarily.

I also like how fast it is changing and how much there is to learn about it. Anything that changes on a consistent basis for me is fun because it keeps me entertained and means I learn something new every day.

8. How do you utilize social media?
I use it to learn. I love to constantly be learning and challenged and that is what I get every day from my connections in the social media space.

9. What is one thing that mainstream population should know about social media?
To give it time and to not be intimidated. It might take a little while to find your voice and find a place you feel you belong, but you will, and when you do, it will change you.

10. If people follow you on Twitter, what can they expect?
Bad spelling, bad grammar, and hopefully some good info. I try to use Twitter to learn from others, share with others, and to give people a little sense of who I really am and what I think.

11. How would you describe the social media scene in Seattle?
Educational. Some of the greatest people I know I have meet in the social media scene in Seattle. We have the most compassionate and caring city in the world and everyone is here to help you any way they can.

12. Do you remember your social media “wow” moment?
The first SMC Seattle event where we had close to 200 people show up. I was thinking we would have around 60 max. All we used was social media to promote it.

13. What is one piece of advice you give to new users of social media?
Try to add value to the community in some way and never be shy to disagree with someone or something you heard.

14. Are you currently working on any projects that involve the use of social media?
I am currently working with a few clients to help them implement their social media programs. I try to get them to believe in it and then implement it. If they don’t believe in it or if the person in charge of it at the company is not passionate about social media or the company they work for, the social media program will not succeed.

15. Are there any social media events or conferences in the future you would like to let people know about? Social Media Club Seattle of course….. There you will find great people and I hope you will make some great connections that may lead to future businesses or lifelong friendships. I have seen it happen already and I know I will again.

More info at smcseattle.com.

Just For Fun:

16. What are your hobbies?
Family time with wife and two girls, time with my computer, golf, and smoking cigars. I try to make it to as many Lynnwood Cigar Club events as possible. Nothing better than a good beer and a good cigar.

17. Favorite vacation spot? Hawaii Thing to do there?
I like to bodyboard, but it has been a few years; don’t know if my body could keep up now. Don’t get there much now, mostly I spend time in Chelan and in Palm Desert these days.

18. Favorite restaurant in Seattle?
The Met.

19. Favorite things to do in Seattle in the summer?
Seattle Father’s Day Beer Festival.

20. Favorite quote?
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” – Philippians 4:13

21. Guilty pleasure?
Cigars.

22. Favorite actor/actress?
Jason Statham. Think I am one of the few people who actually enjoyed the movie Crank.

23. I really like it when…
I am in “go” mode and am getting a lot of things done.

24. One day I would love to…
See Seattle known as the social media headquarters.

25. If I could meet anyone, alive or dead, I would want to meet…
I’ll pick both. Dead, it would be Da Vinci; alive, it would be John Chambers, CEO of Cisco.

26. What would you like everyone to know about you?
If you need my help, please ask! I will help in anyway I can. Sometimes I just suck at finding ways to help. I’m working on it.

Kevin Urie Links

VIDEO: Kevin Urie, Veronica Sopher, & SMC Seattle

VIDEO: Kevin Urie – How Social Media Will Change in 2009

VIDEO: Kevin Urie Talks Social Media Club Seattle

Barry Hurd of 123 Social Media & SMC Seattle

admin — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 16:59:00 +0000

Meet Barry Hurd, SMC Seattle board member and the mind behind local social media consulting firm, 123 Social Media. With over a dozen years of experience in online marketing and brand reputation management, Barry knows his stuff when it comes to social media. When he isn’t out helping companies realize social media isn’t sticking an ad on Facebook, Barry can be found enjoying his other hobbies, which include anything from being outdoors to cooking up some fresh salmon.

As a board member of SMC Seattle, Barry can be found at every SMC Seattle event. I suggest you chat it up with him there; he’s funny a guy who’s very knowledgeable on all things related to social media.

The Basics:

1. What is your name?
Barry Hurd

2. E-mail?
barry dot hurd at 123socialmedia dot com

3. What is your occupation/company?
Online media, brand, and reputation – President @ 123SocialMedia.com.

4. Originally from? When and how did you end up in the Greater Seattle area? (if applicable)
Yakima, Washington, native. Spent a few years in various cities and ended up in Seattle a decade ago.

5. How can people find you on the web?
Type Barry Hurd into Google.

You can also find me @:
www.123socialmedia.com
twitter.com/123socialmedia
www.linkedin.com/in/barryhurd
www.visualcv.com/barryhurd
www.peoplepond.com/barryhurd

Social Media:

6. Why do you like social media?
The ever-changing evolution. Every time someone creates a new way of doing things, it shifts hundreds of other cards in the deck. This creates a very fluid and dynamic environment that allows me to flex my problem-solving skills and examine new ways solving problems or leveraging opportunities that may not have existed a month ago.

7. How do you utilize social media?
A better question is how do I not?
I look at social media as an opportunity to transform and accelerate relationships across dozens of areas ranging from business processes to where I am going to find a good place to eat. With that in mind, I always look at new tools and ask myself “How can I use that?” and I completely disregard the intent it was created for. In this way, I can use my own ingenuity to find simple and revolutionary ways of doing what I need to do.

8. What is the one thing that mainstream population should know about social media?
That it isn’t just about business or marketing and that it can be utilized for any group, whether it is a method of keeping in touch with family or an opportunity to make the next mega-corporation.

9. If people follow you on Twitter, what can they expect?
I tend to point to a lot of information that revolves around online brand and reputation material, often pertaining to public relations and how professionals are perceived online. I also chat with members of the SMC Seattle crew and some national personalities.

10. How would you describe the social media scene in Seattle?
There are a lot of bright minds in Seattle looking at where we are heading rather than where we are. As a community, we have dozens (if not hundreds) of thought-leaders who are finding niches to explore.

11. Do you have a good social media success story or “wow” moment?
Most of the “wow” moments I have are over a quiet cup of coffee as I discard the information and focus on the business tasks at hand. As a business person, I continuously refer ideas to professionals in my network that have the bandwidth and talent required to see the idea succeed.

12. Are there any social media events or conferences in the future you would like to let people know about? Please include dates, locations, etc. Where can more information be found?
There are so many great events in Seattle that cover an amazing amount of ideas. I routinely monitor sites like Meetup, Eventbrite, Upcoming, Biznik, Seattle 2.0, SMC Seattle, and many others for different niche events. The key is to do some searching online and find a community that relates to social media in a way you understand.

Just For Fun:

13. What are your hobbies?
Airsoft, social media (yes, it is a hobby), networking, camping (without technology, everyone needs a break), and whatever my eight-year-old son wants to try next.

14. Favorite vacation spot? Thing to do there?
The San Juan islands are great. They provide a little bit of everything: camping, kayaking, cycling, hiking….

15. Favorite restaurant in Seattle? Favorite food?
The Melting Pot just north of the Science Center. If I am preparing it, fresh salmon.

16. Favorite things to do in Seattle in the summer?
Although I love Seattle, everything I love to do in the summer is outside of Seattle… hiking, camping, visiting friends…

17. Most embarrassing CD you own?
I don’t own any CDs. That is so 90s.

18. Any hidden talents?
Cooking (at least everyone says I should be a chef instead of a social media professional), writing poetry, singing, marksmanship, problem solving, and games of strategy.

19. What would you like everyone to know about you?
I am just a down-to-earth guy who loves what I do. Reach out and touch base with me. I love connecting with professionals and discovering how our niche expertise overlaps. If there is a question they have about social media and how it can interact with them in a beneficial way, I am always open to a cup of coffee.

Barry Hurd Links:

Jeff Shuey: SMC Seattle Board Member & Biz Dev Consultant

admin — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 17:07:32 +0000

Jeff Shuey was one of the first people I met at any meetup of any type. It was at one of Chris Pirillo’s tweetups at the Issaquah Brewhouse in November of last year and I happened to be seated right across from him. I remember thinking to myself, “What have I gotten myself into?” At the time, I had little idea of what a Twitter was, so how I ended up at a tweetup was completely beyond me. I had no idea what I was doing there.

Over the next few hours of sitting across from him, I learned a lot about Jeff: he’s an ex-Microsoftie and a devoted father, had a new puppy, and is really passionate about social media. But beyond that, and during that same time, I found him to be friendly, open, interested, and in general, a really great guy.

Since that tweetup, I’ve attended several more and am always looking forward to the next one because they’re a great time. I enjoy the great conversation, the amazing and passionate people I meet, and of course, there’s always a tasty brew to be had. But the reason I bring up Jeff is because, for me, he’s the guy who made my first tweetup experience great and it’s that which keeps me coming back.

Many of us who are involved in the social media community in Seattle are what you can call “savvy tweetup veterans.” We go to them regularly, see a lot of the usual suspects, and throughout the evening, we may not move away from those folks. We can get in a groove without even thinking about it.

At these times, it’s easy to forget what it can be like for a “first timer” at one of these tweetups. This is a person who may or may not know anyone, might not be as outgoing as the rest of us, and there’s a possibility that they might be intimidated by the groups of folks who look like they all know each other. But as this community in Seattle continues to grow (and it will), it’s good to remember that the next tweetup might be there first for many and their initial interactions will set their expectations for the next.

How will they remember their first tweetup?

I guess what I’m getting at is, whenever you feel like you’re getting in a rut, be like Jeff; don’t be afraid to say “Hi” and engage new people. It may not be a big deal to you, but it might make or break someone’s feelings towards tweetups. In being like Jeff, you will be helping to nurture our social media community here in Seattle and ensure it’s continued growth.

Happy Friday.

The Basics:

1. What is your name?
Jeff Shuey

2. E-mail?
jeff.shuey@gmail.com

3. What is your occupation/company?
Business Development Consultant

4. What is the best part of your job?
Helping companies grow and exceed their goals. Meeting a lot of very passionate, talented and intelligent people from all walks of life.

5. Originally from? When and how did you end up in the Greater Seattle area?
I was born and raised in beautiful Southern California. In 1999, I took a job with Microsoft and moved my family to Seattle.

6. How can people find you on the web?

People can find me via e-mail – jeff.shuey@hotmail.com
My blog – jshueywa.blogspot.com
Twitter – @jshuey
Facebook – www.facebook.com/people/Jeff-Shuey/559053464
LinkedIn – www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshuey

Social Media:

7. What is it about social media that attracts you?
It’s easy to engage. Especially with tools like Twitter—it’s easy to ask a question, respond to a question, and to just generally get involved. It’s also a great way to casually keep friends, family, and colleagues up-to-date on what you are doing. Social media serves as a continuously running string to stay connected. Of course, the other benefit of social media is that people can turn it off and check out when they need to. Then when they are ready, they can check back in and catch up.

8. How do you utilize social media?
I spend a fair amount of time with social media tools and apps. I have met some great people and have learned things I would have never had the privilege or the time to find or research. So, for me, social media is a great equalizer and a way to connect with great minds. The information is out there. It’s up to me to determine what information is valuable.

9. What is one thing that mainstream population should know about social media?
The primary thing everyone should know about social media is something they have heard probably a thousand times in their life: “You get out of it what you put into it.”

10. If people follow you on Twitter, what can they expect?
People that follow me on Twitter can expect commentary on cloud computing and the enterprise content management (ECM) community. Also, I tweet a lot of local content for the greater Seattle area. And, I retweet content that I find interesting and that I think people will also be interested in reading or seeing.

11. How would you describe the social media scene in Seattle?
Vibrant. The social media scene in Seattle is dynamic and spans everything from small businesses to large corporations; from local government, including a lot of our elected officials to grass-roots organizations; and students, artists, and even a few street vendors.

12. Do you remember your social media “wow” moment? What was it?
I think my “wow” moment came when I asked a question and had several responses within minutes. That was impressive to me. So, the “real-time” nature of social media combined with the generosity of the social media community was my “wow” moment.

13. What is one piece of advice you give to new users of social media?
My one piece of advice would be… get started! Take the time to get started by thinking about what you want to do with social media. Make a commitment to spend at least two weeks getting up-to-speed and then get involved—lurk for a while if you are more comfortable with that, then jump in, get engaged, and become part of the conversation. As you build your skills and comfort level, tell your friends, family, and colleagues. It can be daunting at first, but keep this in mind… everyone had to start at some point. Why don’t you start today!

14. Are you currently working on any projects which involve the use of social media? If so, what are they?
Yes, I am working on several projects that involve the use of a broad spectrum of social media, including blogging, Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. There are a few other technology components that I categorize as being tied to the social media computing scene and they include webcast and conference call tools, ECM, and advanced search technologies. The projects I am working on span what are traditionally seen as social media tools and apps and combines them with the other technologies to help companies achieve their goals faster and more cost effectively. The result is focused on an integrated solution that will become part of the overall infrastructure and can be maintained in a predictable and repeatable manner.

15. Are there any social media events or conferences in the future you would like to let people know about?
Depending upon the interests of the individual there are countless events involving social media. There are groups focused on specific horizontal segments, such as marketing, sales, customer service, etc.; others focused on vertical segments, such as legal, sports, medical, etc.; and many that combine these two aspects.

For a great place to start, I recommend looking at the Social Media Club – Seattle chapter website: www.smcseattle.com. There is a running calendar of events posted at www.smcseattle.com/calendar.

Just For Fun:

16. What are your hobbies?
Mountain biking, wakesurfing, umpiring and coaching baseball, and lacrosse.

17. Favorite vacation spot? Thing to do there?
Maui: windsurfing and hanging out with family and friends. Closer to home: Lake Sammamish for wakesurfing and boating.

18. Favorite restaurant in Seattle?
This is a tough one. There are so many great restaurants in Seattle. If I have to pick one, I think it’s got to be Palisade. Great view, food, and ambience.

19. Favorite things to do in Seattle in the summer?
Seattle is a great place to live because no matter what direction you go on the compass, there is something to do. Summer in Seattle is a special time of year. I like to get up early and ride my mountain bike in the solitude of the forests. Then I’ll get out on one of the local lakes for a wakesurfing session followed up with a BBQ for family and friends. Since it doesn’t get dark until around 10pm,a lot can happen in a single day.

20. Favorite quote?
“Take responsibility for your own actions.”

21. Movie you’re embarrassed to say you like?
Dan in Real Life. Actually, I highly recommend this movie. It’s got a lot of “teaching moments.” I guess I should be embarrassed to say that I have seen it at least five times.

22. Last song you listened to?
Morrissey – “Every Day Is Like Sunday”

23. I really like it when…
I see people have their “aha” or “wow” moment when using social media. As a parent, I also like it when I see my kids succeed, especially when they had to work hard to discover their “aha” moment.

24. One day, I would love to…
Be able to spend my days on Maui or the Big Island while writing, thinking, and relaxing with a never-ending flow of friends and family coming by to visit and play.

25. What would you like everyone to know about you?
I like to collaborate and share ideas.

Jeff Shuey Links:

Marcus Schmidt: Windows Online Community Manager

admin — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:52:13 +0000

Microsoft. Inevitably, when you think of that ginormous company out in Redmond, often times you can’t help but think of one of its top competitors: Apple. Why? Because the debate about which is better is such a polarizing one. Either you’re a Windows fanboy or you’re an Apple fanboy—there’s no inbetween, gray area, or sitting on the fence on this one. You have to choose a side.

As for me, I’m a big fan of both. They both make great products that are valuable to me. On the Mac, I love iMovie 09. Have you tried it? I wish I had a Mac just so I could use it. Seriously, I would probably give up two of my kidneys and a lung just so I could play with it for 15 minutes. I love it.

At the same time, I still got mad love for Windows. I’ve been a huge fan since I discovered Windows 95 (Ski Free anyone?). You can imagine then, how stoked I am that Windows 7 is almost ready to roll out. Honestly, it’s pretty gangster. It’s got a slick interface, accessible features, and I love the simplicity of it.

For me, the question of which is better, Mac or PC, is one I don’t even address because I think there’s room for both, and as a consumer, I love to see healthy competition. There is no light side or dark side of the force to debate here.

Now that we’ve gotten the disclosures out of the way, one thing that has impressed me specfically about Microsoft has been their usage of social media tools. From Bing, to Xbox, to Zune, to Windows, many of their teams have fully embraced it and it’s something I love seeing.

For me then, having the opportunity to speak with Marcus Schmidt, Online Community Manager for the Windows team, was an incredible opportunity. We spoke about a variety of topics ranging from social media to his job as an Online Community Manager to South Dakota. It was a fascinating discussion and I’m sure you’ll think so as well.

Get to know him Marcus. He’s a great guy and he’s a gamer to boot!

Thanks again, Marcus.

The Basics:

1. What is your name?
Marcus Schmidt

2. What is your occupation/company?
Senior Marketing Manager and Community Manager at Microsoft.

3. Originally from?
South Dakota

4. When and how did you end up in the Greater Seattle area?
Came here in 1997 to work for Microsoft.

5. How can people find you on the web?
@marcusatmsft on Twitter and marcusatmicrosoft.spaces.live.com. I also cotweet on @MSWindows and @windowslive.

Social Media:

6. Why do you like social media?
I really like the immediate personal relationships you can create with people around a specific topic or interest.

7. How do you utilize social media?
I would say 80% of my social media time is related to work and about 20% personal. I primarily blog and tweet, but also have done some podcasting and v-logging. I also do Facebook and LinkedIn, but not as much as I probably should.

8. What is one thing that mainstream population should know about social media?
Social media happens with or without you. People are talking about your product, service, company, issue, or interest and it’s up to you if you want to listen and/or engage.

9. If people follow you on Twitter, what can they expect?
Information about Microsoft stuff, mostly Windows related. Plus a few tweets about baseball, maybe something about my plans for the weekend. And they can absolutely expect responses to their @’s and DM’s. If you have questions about Microsoft stuff, I’ll try to help as best I can.

10. How would you describe the social media scene in Seattle?
Vibrant and growing! Working on the board of the SMC Seattle group, I’m amazed by the passion and interest around social media. Our events are always sold out, which is a great reflection on the interest level.

11. Do you remember your social media “wow” moment?
Probably one of my biggest “wow” moments was when I blogged and tweeted a question about “Why do you use a Windows PC?” and got like 68 comments within a day. What an amazing response!

12. Are you currently working on any projects which involve the use of social media?
My whole job is social media. My top projects right now are focused on building community activities on our own website with a site called the Clubhouse (which I’ll explain more during the interview), a site called Answers (more on this in the interview too), and a new part of our Windows website that helps bring those two community activities together along with our other social media work on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and other communities on the web.

13. Are there any social media events or conferences in the future you would like to let people know about?
Just keep in touch with SMC Seattle on our website (www.smcseattle.com) or Twitter account @SMCSeattle.

Just For Fun:

14. What are your hobbies?
Travel, Washington wines, cooking, reading, photography, playing Xbox, and gardening.

15. Favorite vacation spot? Things to do there?
My wife and I took a great trip to South Africa a little over a year ago. We loved the whole country, but I really liked taking photos on the safari. I shot about 3,300 pictures.

16. Favorite restaurant in Seattle? Favorite food?
Herb Farm in Woodinville… love anything with fresh herbs. But make sure you set aside a lot of time for the multicourse meal. It’s a must-do at least once—kind of expensive, but worth it!

17. Favorite things to do in Seattle in the summer?
Sit in the sun and read.

18. Most embarrassing CD you own?
Hmmm. Hootie and the Blowfish’s Cracked Rear View?

19. Any hidden talents?
Hmmm… none come to mind.

20. What would you like everyone to know about you? Other interesting facts?
My wife and I have two guinea pigs as pets. Great pets for busy people.

Marcus Schmidt Links:

VIDEO: Marty Collins (@SeattleGirl) talks with Marcus Schmidt

VIDEO: Twitter Roadtrip’s Interview with Marcus Schmidt