What Bill Thinks

Recently, I received a copy of Twitter Marketing for Dummies to review. I’m a fan of the Dummies guides. They often contain lists that are worth the price of the book (I like shortcuts.) Having said that, I’ve learned to be a bit suspicious of the “experts.” Expertise tends to be overrated and most often unnecessary. However, if there are Twitter experts, then Kyle Lacy is one.

Many people are quick to point out that Twitter is simply the latest, greatest thing. Well, uh, yeah. Don’t large hordes of people gather around the latest and the greatest? Sounds perfect for people who need to do some marketing.

The book title says this book is about marketing but regardless of role or title, anyone involved with business will benefit from the content. In the world of social media the lines between marketing, sales, customer service, and PR are blurring. This is certainly the case with new media apps such as Twitter.

The thought of all you could be doing with this trendy tool is quickly overwhelming. It’s hard to know where to start. Getting advice from an experienced user, whether from a book or a blog, can save a lot of time.

I consider myself relatively savvy when it comes to social media. I’ve been blogging and using Twitter for some time now. Nevertheless, I learned a few things myself and made note of a number of websites and applications I didn’t know about. Kyle offers solid advice and helpful tips throughout the book (though thanks to the way they do these books it gets a bit redundant).

I confess. I’d rather read a book than a blog. I like the way they smell; the way they feel. But I have to say, if you’re a business owner reading a book about Twitter then you’re a bit behind. But don’t give up. Better late than never.

Twitter will eventually be passe. It will pass out of favor or we’ll move on to a new technology. Most of the concepts in this book are applicable to much of the social media realm and will transfer to whatever new tool emerges next.

DISCLAIMER: So as no one is mislead and the FTC is fully satisfied be it known that I was sent the copy of the book at no charge in exchange for a review. However, the positive review of the book is my genuine, if not enthusiastic, opinion.

Tags: Twitter
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Posted on Monday, 1st March 2010 by Bill

I think high schools need to get serious about helping kids prepare to be adults. Parents and family have the first responsibility, and I would toss in faith and similar communities, but if we’re going to have public schools and require attendance, let’s make them more effective.

My two big issues are health and money.

We, at least me and my high school buddies, made fun of those who were taking Consumer Math. This was a math class for those who couldn’t handle the advanced courses. We thought of it has, “How To Make Change For A Dollar.” Now I have a different opinion. I think consumer math should be required to graduate.

I got my first credit card at 19. In less than two months I was cutting it up and mailing it back. The credit card company was happy and I got to experience debt stress for the first time. My daughters regularly get fatherly advice about credit cards. Hopefully it will make the difference for them. I do hope the recent changes in the laws will make a difference.

With all the useless classes, and days spent watching movies and television shows (don’t get me started on that), couldn’t we squeeze in some serious education about budgeting, balancing bank accounts, and understanding credit & loans? I know there’s time. And, as far as I know, there shouldn’t be any moral or religious conflicts with regards to what should get taught (i’m thinking of sex ed).

That leads me to the health issue, or, more specifically, nutrition and fitness. Our kids , especially the older ones, need to learn about fitness; that they need to be active and help doing it. They spend time in PE and health classes learning about badminton and condoms, and those aren’t useless things, but what about basic nutrition and exercise principles? One lesson on the latest food pyramid at some point in elementary school isn’t enough. Perhaps this would be one of the most significant things we could do to address our health care crisis.

I don’t want to see our schools back off of advanced subjects, especially math & science, to make room for these. The U.S. is going to be in serious trouble in the coming generation, if we don’t improve the quality of students entering and coming out of college. However, we would still have serious trouble with hordes of brilliant young people unable to manage their finances or to get off the couch.

I don’t want my kids to be broke and fat their whole lives.

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Posted on Monday, 22nd February 2010 by Bill

The Bean boys ( I mean the Beans, not the Hursts) are cooking up a little something new. I’m a big fan of the Hurst’s Hambeens products, not to mention a few of the Hursts (great place to tailgate before a Colt’s game). 15 Bean Soup might be my favorite (with hot sauce and corn bread).

It’s great having them in Indy. Means I can almost always find the product I want. 15 Bean Soup is their most popular and the one they’re famous for. However, they have a lot of either tasty items. Recently, I’ve become quite fond of the Garlic & Herb Lentils and the Confetti Lentils.

Seems everyone has a favorite but it can be tough finding it on the grocery shelf for some people. Lots of different factors play in to that. Wal Mart, Kroger, Publix, Marsh, etc… can’t carry every item on the planet. So what’s a bean lover to do?

We’re testing the waters with a new idea. We think there might be a few people out there who’d like to be able to get their favorite Hurst Bean mix without driving all over town to find it, wherever their town might be. If that’s you, head on over to the website ( www.eatmorebeans.com ) and add your name to the mailing list. Tell us what your favorite is and we’ll let you know when things are ready to go.

You can follow us on Twitter as well: www.twitter.com/beansRgood . Spread the word!

By the way, check out the newly updated Hurst Bean website. Great videos!

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Posted on Friday, 19th February 2010 by Bill

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Posted on Thursday, 11th February 2010 by Bill

Trying my hand at article marketing. Do you think less of me? Just posted my eZine article on personal injury at Injury Settlement Guide website. Should benefit all parties (Disclaimer: I was paid for my services. Check out the article and help me get paid more. Insert smiley face.)

My high school English teacher would be so proud (Mrs. Abel). Perhaps I should publish my senior paper on the Sacred Music of J.S. Bach ?

Never considered myself a professional writer but I can get by. Glad I have a day job. I’d much rather find work for people who write much better than I do. If you need writing for your ever hungry website, let me know.

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Posted on Saturday, 6th February 2010 by Bill