Happy Friday! The weekend is almost here. And, it’s time for another #FollowFriday recommendation. This week I recommend that you check out Mark Schaefer from {grow}.
Mark Schaefer is a sales/marketing/social media strategist who helps businesses of all sizes develop effect marketing and social media strategies.
I think that I discovered Mark while looking through the AdAge Power 150 list. Mark is currently number 48 on the list. While AdAge might put him at number 48, he is in my top 10 list of bloggers that I follow. If you are interested in marketing and social media, you need to be reading Mark’s blog.
Why do I enjoy Mark’s blog so much?
1. Practical social media advice – I find the hype in the social media space to be exhausting, but Mark is a breath of fresh air. Mark’s advice is practical and based on lots of business experience. Here is a great example of Mark’s practical social media advice – Stop shoving social media down my throat.
2. Great case studies – Mark publishes some excellent case studies. One of my favorites was a recent case study on how Caterpillar is using social media.
3. Community – I love interacting with the community Mark has built around his site. Here is how Mark built his community around his blog. Mark’s community rocks. Here are some cool bloggers that are a part of Mark’s community – Gini Dietrich, Davina Brewer, Kaarina Dillabough, Mark Harai, Ingrid Abboud, and Srini Rao.
Let’s wrap this love fest up. Enjoy your weekend, and enjoy Mark’s awesome archives!
Hey Fred, Mark Schaefer is on my top 3 list and every blogger you mentioned is in my top 10.
It’s hard to find authentic originators in all the noise; but Mark is certainly an original voice putting himself out there in a real way.
He’s one of the most effective thought leaders in the industry who is contributing significantly to shaping best practices in the medium.
Cheers to Mr. Schaefer!
Mark Harai recently posted..Entrepreneur Series- Eliminate Viruses From Your Business
Shame on me, I didn’t even thank you for your mention here before I hit publish!
Thank you Fred!
Mark Harai recently posted..Entrepreneur Series- Eliminate Viruses From Your Business
No problem Mark. I am so grateful that I connected with you.
Fred, I’m so honoured that you included me in such great company: thank you so much! I don’t believe anyone’s ever called me a “cool blogger” before: I’m flattered and grateful.
I’ve followed Mark’s blog from the outset, and agree with Mark Harai: everyone you mentioned is also on my top “hit parade” of bloggers I follow and recommend. And not only are they “top ten” bloggers, all of these individuals have become great friends that I cherish.
You’ve made my day Fred:) And well-deserved kudos to Mark Schaefer, for providing awesome content and community. Thanks! Kaarina
Kaarina Dillabough recently posted..The Trust Factor and Paying It Forward
I am psyched that I made your day Kaarina. Keep up the great work you are doing.
Will do, Fred. It’s extra-special-with-a-cherry-on-top to get such lovely recognition. Thanks again.
Kaarina Dillabough recently posted..The power of stones
Appreciate you listing me here, thanks.
Mark is certainly a good one; no matter how much his business and blog have grown he 1) still makes time to engage with others via Twitter, their blogs and 2) still keeps his own voice (like Mark H said), he’s not afraid to tell you what he thinks. Even if I disagree, his advice is practical and well-written, gotta respect that. FWIW.
Davina K. Brewer recently posted..Blogging the Great Debate Should I call bullshit
You are so right Davina. Mark is so down to earth and appreciative of the people who visit his site. Everyone should take note at how he makes everyone feel special.
This is such a tremendous honor Fred. I’ve been put on a lot of lists lately but a personal testament like this from somebody I respect is really a source of pride. Thanks for this very wonderful and appreciated post!
Mark,
You can tell by all of the comments here that so many think you are a great guy – me included. Everyone needs to be paying attention to you and your work.
I will definitely be checking out Mark Schaefer, I have to say I might have to take your idea Fred. I like the idea of focusing on one specific Twitter connection for #FollowFriday. I’ve never been huge about sending out massive #FF lists.
Extreme John recently posted..MarketMeSuite Review
I would be honored if you took this idea and ran with it. I did the same when I got the idea from Gini Dietrich.
I also am not crazy about the massive #FF lists on Twitter. How often do people give them the attention they deserve?
Yes! I love Mark, too! Although, he’s getting dangerously close to us in the AdAge list. I have to do some serious work to stay ahead of him. As you know, I’m a big fan of doing #FF this way. Way to rock it! And thanks for the mention, too!
Gini Dietrich recently posted..Get Twitter Follow and Google 1
To all who don’t know, Gini is my inspiration for my #FollowFriday series. Gini does the same on her site Spin Sucks. If you haven’t seen her #FollowFriday articles, go check them out now!