Tim Washer. Keynote Speaker + Event Emcee

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Portlandia — The Social Media Explore Tour

Cancel your plans for Nov 14-15 and catch the Greyhound to Portlandia.   Jason Falls and the Social Media Explorer crew make their next tour stop in the City of Roses.  I learned so much from the event in Orange County last week, and met some great folks, including OakMonster, who cracked me up with this image:

Sharks

This doctrine has defined my success as a communicator.

Falls’ event also taught me a few things about what to look for when choosing a conference speakers who have deep domain expertise in marketing and social media, and are also entertaining and inspirational.  Here are a few presenter characteristics:

1) Numbers guy. Larry Rosin clearly has a passion for standard deviations, and he combed through the pie charts in an entertaining fashion.  He told us that political campaign yard signs have a surprising influence on voters.  Uh-oh.  Larry also revealed that the stories we hear about the death of Facebook come from traditional media — there are no data to support this claim.  As I’ve often said, don’t let facts get in the way of a good story.   I’d recommend looking through the Social Habit Report.

2) Vulnerability. While most of the presentations will change how I conduct my business, Courtney Seiter’s opening will change how I conduct my life.  She opened with quotes about a friend who passed away recently.  At the memorial service, everyone was reflecting what a good, guine listener her friend had been, and how he asked questions.  “It’s amazing to see the effect that someone paying attention to other people can have.”   It was a moving way to begin her presentation, The art of being interested.   She went on to walk us through a vast array of tools, demonstrating how we can show our interest in people on social media.

The art of being interested
Courtney Seiter

3) Knowledge of Market Trends.  Tim Hayden‘s presentation, “All of Your Marketing is Mobile, You Just Don’t Know It” was full of actionable ideas that I’ve already started implemented.

4) Good Teacher. What is truly remarkable about Marcus Sheridan was simplicity in which he lays out an inbound marketing / social media plan that anyone can implement.  In short, quit talking about yourself and become a good teacher.  Use your blog to answer the questions your prospective customers have.  His free e-book shares all the detail.

With this caliber of speakers, keynote Scott Stratten, fun locals like Babcock Jenkins’ Carmen Hill and Voodoo Doughnuts, you can’t miss Portland.  Register here.

3 Comments

  • Tim Washer on Nov 13, 2012 Reply

    Thanks Nancy. I’ll do my best to swing by Voodoo Donuts http://www.travelchannel.com/video/tony-digs-doughnuts-in-portland-11740

  • Nancy Breed on Nov 10, 2012 Reply

    Tim – I always learn and laugh from your stuff. I have now included a hidden shark slide in all of my presos “just in case”…Voodoo donuts — one of the most interesting, intimidating, slightly scary places I’ve ever ordered a donut…3 adjectives I never expected to use to describe a donut purchase…outside that one time in Baltimore.

  • Marcus Sheridan on Oct 29, 2012 Reply

    Tim, thanks so much for the kind words buddy. It was great meeting you at the OC and your presentation and style were incredibly refreshing.

    Keep spreading the good word my friend. 🙂

    Marcus

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