Sunday, March 6, 2011

Connect - It is still a who you know world

Kendall Marshall #5!:
This is the fourth post in a six part series about how I created my website, churnOn.com and this blog; as well as launched an ecosystem of social networking tools in just four weeks. The series is dedicated to Coach Dean Smith and pays tribute to the four corners offense. As my social media activation continues to take me towards unique and interesting business opportunities, let me note that my Tar Heels are 'connecting' on all cylinders and captured the ACC regular season championship with a special win over Duke on Saturday!

Read part one: The Four C's that launched churnOn.com 
Read part two: Create, Connect, Complete, and Churn
Read part three: In corner number one: Create!

Last week I wrote about the creation phase of the website and especially the importance of the word 'start'. The emphases was on moving the ball forward by finding steps that would launch the project from 'idea' to 'reality'. One of those steps was the use of a vision board.

Vision Board
After making the vision board, I oscillated out of 'creation' mode and into 'connect' mode. I put the board in the car and I drove around asking my friends, "What do you think of this idea?" There are other ways to describe the transition from create to connect. I got out of my head and went into my heart. I switched from mental capacity to social capacity.

The process of moving away from creating (mental, mind) to connect (social, heart, emotional) moved me closer to my goal. I attracted what I needed in the way of positive feedback and also I found people who could help me move the project from vision board to the computer. Friends said, "Yes, Page great idea, you can do it!" Others said, "I love your writing and your unique style. Go for it." I needed to hear that and it propelled me further into the project.

My next crucial connection was with the geniuses at the Apple store. For therein laid the magic to unleash the publishing tool, the MacBook.The Apple store became my home away from home, signing up for two hour 'personal project' sessions and working on the Website at the genius bar. Those young men and women are really good at what they do.

I will share more this week about how to 'connect' with people who can help, when you are working on a project. How are your connection skills? Are you 'connecting' on all cylinders (like #5 Kendall Marhsall) when you have a good idea that needs to be shared or launched?

3 comments:

Drew M. said...

Nice thoughts, Page. In today's world, being resourceful is perceived as being much more than maintaining a Rolodex of contacts. With FB, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc (not to mention Youtube and the zillion other tutorial websites) step by step instructions can be found for nearly any task or project. These tools can really level the playing field in terms of capabilities but lack two essential ingredients needed for success. They can't provide the feedback and support needed to blast off and they can't spread the good word for you. For this, you'll have to dust off the ole Rolodex.

There is truly no substitute for the influential people that help us make things happen in this world. We should never be afraid to call on them for support, and offer ours openly at every opportunity. I might have learned that from you.

Go 'Heels!

G. Page Singletary said...

Thanks Drew. Creating my personal website and blog has been interesting on many fronts, one being the different perspectives people have on social media. As a sales professional I knew I needed to embrace the tools. But in the end, I wouldn't trade my Rolodex for anything.

Tim Fox said...

The ability to connect and be connected should be a class that is mandated in college or high school (along with real life personal finance). Class is in session on your blog.

Speaking of connecting and technology, I'm fascinated by the cloud. I wonder what the Apple Bar geniuses think about this amazing article on the future of technology that is now:

http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/11_11/b4219052599182.htm