I’ve often wondered how one goes about creating a LinkedIn group. The other day, I found out by starting one for DC Flacks. Now, if someone at work asks me about the pros/cons/ins/outs of this particular tool, I’ll be able to speak with some authority because I’ve actually done it.

Some goes for the social media consulting I do on the strategic use of blogs, Twitter, PitchEngine, Facebook, Foursquare, Yelp, etc. I know how to do these things well because I’ve used them for myself and continue to explore their uses.

It’s the story of Team Newman‘s life, really. Dave and I play around on the Internet and try out new things. The stuff we try personally often ends up benefiting the folks who hire us. It’s not that we magically know geekery, it’s that we get a lot of practice. Read More…

A few months ago, my hubby shared with me via Google Reader a feed about PitchEngine, the free social media release (SMR) builder-program-thing created by a very smart flack out of Wyoming.

A social media release? Yes! Think of it as your traditional press release to non-traditional folks like Twitter-ers, Facebookers, Google and folks/bots who like to search Google.

Just like your traditional press release, the SMR includes a headline, description text and a boilerplate including company logo, description and contact information. Unlike that traditional release, your SMR includes photos, logos and links to online videos and relevant social media accounts like Twitter, Facebook, etc.

The finished product is a one-stop online shop for the interested reader and reporter. Read More…