And, that will only serve to devalue SMROI and push all of us small business owners back into a position where we have to spend large amounts of money to build and audience and garner attention for our product or service. I hope we don't screw up this “free lunch.

And, as anyone can see, I'm no Social Media Purist. My avatar shows my brand *gasp.* But, I try to add value and remain in the context of a discussion so as not to water down the effectiveness of Social Media. I care about the success of social media because I understand value and freedom.

This whole topic is heating up more than ever as brands try to get their footing in social media. (And, I don't happen to think brands in social media is a bad thing. Nor, can it be stopped.) But, just as in anything, we all (individuals and entities) need to be accountable for our actions… including adding value to the conversation and the collective online society. Be a good netizen and “snetizen?”

Brian.. you may find the following discussion of value. (not my site…but I did write a comment which I hope you'll look for and read) …. “Why Social Media Purists Won't Last” http://www.socialmediaexplorer.com/2009/11/23/w...

We need to figure out what will help the situation. Marketers are not going away. And, unfortunately, it will not take many to really taint any signal on free airwaves.

Enjoy your holidays.

And, that will only serve to devalue SMROI and push all of us small business owners back into a position where we have to spend large amounts of money to build and audience and garner attention for our product or service. I hope we don't screw up this “free lunch.

And, as anyone can see, I'm no Social Media Purist. My avatar shows my brand *gasp.* But, I try to add value and remain in the context of a discussion so as not to water down the effectiveness of Social Media. I care about the success of social media because I understand value and freedom.

This whole topic is heating up more than ever as brands try to get their footing in social media. (And, I don't happen to think brands in social media is a bad thing. Nor, can it be stopped.) But, just as in anything, we all (individuals and entities) need to be accountable for our actions… including adding value to the conversation and the collective online society. Be a good netizen and “snetizen?”

Brian.. you may find the following discussion of value. (not my site…but I did write a comment which I hope you'll look for and read) …. “Why Social Media Purists Won't Last” http://www.socialmediaexplorer.com/2009/11/23/w...

We need to figure out what will help the situation. Marketers are not going away. And, unfortunately, it will not take many to really taint any signal on free airwaves.

Enjoy your holidays.