Miles Austin

The Web Tools Guy / Speaker and Sales and Marketing Technologist
Redmond, Washington

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Footprints in the Sand

The explosion of Social media has accelerated the number of conversations dramatically. Many would agree that there is so much conversation going on that it is impossible to keep up. Are you leaving your footprints in your activity?

Written Apr 21, 2010, read 3754 times since then.

The explosion of Social media in our culture has accelerated the number of conversations to an unprecedented level. Many would agree that there is so much conversation going on that it is impossible to keep up. The benefits of participating in these conversations should no longer be in doubt, except by those few that refuse to adapt to change.

A productive conversation has two required components: speaking and listening. Much of the conversation in the early stage of social media is speaking. If you were/are one of the early users of Twitter, you will most likely agree. Lot's of 'speaking' going on - words being pushed out into the Twittersphere. As we learn how to use this medium more effectively, it has become apparent that the more strategic use of these tools is as a listener. Please note that I am an advocate of doing both, as often as time allows.

The term "lurking" is used to describe the online activity in which someone hangs out in the background, never speaking and never visible. You will gain very little by using social media tools this way. If you have read earlier posts of mine you know I believe the most important activity in social media is listening. However, if you are only listening, you are being cheated of the opportunity to expand your knowledge, connections and your business.

There are numerous reasons to "leave footprints" as you travel the web:

1) You are building name recognition with the people that you respect enough to read their information or follow in social media.

2) You are building your expertise on the subject matter that you are commenting on. Obviously this assumes that you have left a well thought out comment on the topic of the post, Tweet, video or photo.

3) You will gain additional connections or followers that are noticing your footprints.

4) You are developing and exercising your online "voice", gaining experience in putting your thoughts and ideas into words.

I recommend "leaving a footprint" as frequently as you can. Leaving a footprint simply means to let others know you stopped by. A reply to a tweet, a comment on a Facebook wall and/or a comment on a blog post. As a blogger I can tell you that those readers that leave a comment after their visit are much appreciated and valued. If you want to achieve an active, productive social media experience, leave a footprint of your travels. You will stand out in the crowd, others will begin to recognize your involvement, follow you and your thoughts and expand your network of connections. If you want to stand out, to gain the attention of those that you follow, and potentially of those that you seek a conversation with, leave your footprint. Try it, you will surprised with the results.

What do you do to leave your footprints? Will you share an interesting story about what has happened to you after someone followed your footprints? Have you had success by doing this already? Might I suggest that you start now by leaving your footprint on this article in the comment area below.

Learn more about the author, Miles Austin.

Posted by Howard Howell, Seattle, Washington | Apr 22, 2010

Miles... Footprints are great. May I step in?

On numerous occasions I have stepped into an online conversation with people I have never met that resulted in a new business association at a later date when we met at a live networking or educational event. It really helps break the ice in meeting new people.

Sometimes, I have sought people out by going to a live event they RSVP'd simply because of online comments they made on a post where I was "lurking". What many people don't think about in that area is if they become a "no show", a lasting impression has been made that they may never know about.

Thank you for encouraging people to step out from the shadows and join in the conversation. ...Howard
Posted by Laura Crest, Bellingham, Washington | Apr 22, 2010

Thank you, Miles, for your most articulate article on the value of contributing to the conversation, or as you so deftly put it, "leaving footprints in the sand."

As a writer and (sometimes) blogger, I deeply appreciate receiving feedback from a visitor/reader; it provides the satisfaction and needed inspiration to produce more. I am conscientious about leaving a comment or note wherever I travel on the web, not only for the savvy reasons you've outlined, but also out of respect for the individual. It's simply good web etiquette!

Thank you again for this incisive and important article. I'll be checking back to see who else has taken a few moments to leave their footprints!

Laura, Writer At Work
Posted by Sujan Dey, kolkata, West Bengal India | Apr 22, 2010

I have few question below for everyone

Is your website Media Friendly ? Is your website is social media ready ?
Posted by Sandy Basker, Issaquah, Washington | Apr 22, 2010

Great article!!

I learned right away that I would get a Twitter following of my target audience by tweeting out useful information. I tweeted out a couple of sites that have lesson plans for home schoolers, and before I knew it I had dozens of home schooling moms following me!

Leaving footprints is definitely something I need to do more and more of.
Posted by Carol Carini, Bellevue, Washington | Apr 22, 2010

Miles, you are so right. Sometimes I get so busy I forget to get online and visit my social networking accounts. I need to do more.
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | Apr 22, 2010

Thank you all for your "footprints"! Isn't it amazing, especially with the topic of this post that at this time there have been 105 views of the article and only 5 posts and 6 people rated the article.

What am I missing? Some of you must know the answer.
Posted by Laura Crest, Bellingham, Washington | Apr 22, 2010

Miles, I wish I did. It baffles me, too! Yes, especially with the topic of this article!!! SHEEESH!!! : )

Laura
Posted by Traci Hahn, Bellingham, Washington | Apr 22, 2010

Hi Miles, I really enjoyed this article. I'm pretty new to social media and your article has inspired me to leave my footprint more than I have been.
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | Apr 22, 2010

Great to hear it Traci. Your comment is a perfect example: you read, you took action and you motivated me by your efforts. Thank you for taking action. I just had a phone call from a Biznik person saying that they didn't know how to "rate" the article. So, for those that have not rated an article before, scroll up to the top of the article, where you see the "Rate it" area. Click there and use the sliding scale to rate the value of the article by moving the pointer to the appropriate rating. Once you have the pointer in the appropriate location, remember to click the "rate it" button.

There are times that I read an article and write a comment, and some times not, but I always try and remember to rate each article that I read. It is helpful to the author as well as other viewers that come across the article.

Hope that helps.
Posted by John James, Redmond, Washington | Apr 22, 2010

Hey Miles,

Your article is very helpful. It is always good to pass on comments and feedback to articles posted on BizNik. Particularly those that you find helpful and informative. Yours is both.

Thanks for posting it.

John
Posted by Wendy Guo, Bellevue, Washington | Apr 22, 2010

Great article, Miles. One observation I've made is that if someone is talking about your business/you it's incredibly easy and effective way to leave a footprint. Like Laura said, it's just web etiquette to respond to people who take time to give you something valuable.

Cheers,

Wendy
Posted by Judy Dunn, Seattle, Washington | Apr 22, 2010

This is a great topic, Miles. And you have given us some important stuff to chew on.

On the speaking and listening thing, I agree that the early users tend to do more speaking (or "broadcasting"), just pushing their messages out and not interacting, engaging people in conversations. Personally, I think it needs to start with listening, then proceeding to two-way conversations.

I participated in a discussion on LinkedIn recently (that means I left my "footprint," right, Miles?). It was about why people don't leave comments on blog posts (which also applies to online articles, forums, etc.)

People had all kinds of reasons for not leaving comments—for being listeners and lurkers. I was motivated to write a blog post on it, "What We Can Learning About Commenting on Blogs from a First Grader." It's a fascinating thing to me: why so many more people read than comment (or listen than speak).

The blog post link is here in case anyone is curious about what people thought about the issue:

http://bit.ly/bcWIQX

You have a great way of explaining what good social media behaviors are and why it is so important to leave our footprints. Thanks for sharing your expertise with us, Miles.
Posted by Julie Weishaar, Nanuet, New York | Apr 23, 2010

What an insightful article! How do we get the "lurkers" to read it? I too have been somewhat baffled by the amount of reads articles get compared to the number of comments. It takes time to comment and I think many people just aren't willing to take the necessary time to leave their footprint. If I am taking the time to read something, I try to always take a few extra minutes to comment because it is the nice thing to do, I would appreciate the reciprocity and as you point out, I am building name recognition.

Thanks for sharing your insights!
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | Apr 23, 2010

If you want to see how these things can take off, Julie Weishaar (above) left her footprint, then went back to her blog and left another footprint. Thanks Julie for providing an example of how this happens!

Here is her Blog Post: http://www.newhorizons123.com/wordpress/?p=1179

Thanks Julie!
Posted by Julie Weishaar, Nanuet, New York | Apr 23, 2010

And Miles left his footprint on my blog :) Thanks Miles!
Posted by Pam Johnson-Bennett, CCBC, Nashville, Tennessee | Apr 23, 2010

Hi Miles, what a wonderful article. Being the dinosaur that I am, I have missed the interaction between people as we rely so heavily on social media and online marketing. While I've met some wonderful people and developed relationships I never would've had without the online opportunity, there's also that impersonal aspect of those lurking in the background who might have very valuable opinions and input but are reluctant to share.

I love your concept of "footprints" and think the value goes far beyond marketing or networking, but rather, establishing relationships -- something that those Mom and Pop stores used to cherish.
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | Apr 23, 2010

Pam, You have hit at the heart of this with your thoughts on building relationships. Always have been and will forever be the basis for success in business and in life.

Do you think that we can enjoy the benefits of all these social media tools AND build relationships if we just begin to leave our footprints?
Posted by Pam Johnson-Bennett, CCBC, Nashville, Tennessee | Apr 23, 2010

Miles, as long as the footprints being left are real and not just for the sake of saying "I was here now please buy my product." I think your idea of leaving footprints can truly bring the best of both worlds together.

Your article was so refreshing. I have such strong beliefs in being sincere and maintaining integrity in business and marketing.

I love the way you think!
Posted by John C Erdman, Bothell, Washington | Apr 26, 2010

Hey Miles, thanks for reminding us that it is a two way street we all live on. When I post an article, host an event, attend an event, comment on someone's article or event it brings me closer to the people who are making this world of Social Media real. I slack off sometimes and don't get the comments written but will be on my best behavior in the Future. Thanks again, John

Make this the best day ever! Enthusiastically, John
Posted by Owen Kindig, Seattle, Washington | Apr 26, 2010

Thanks, Miles, I like your article and it paints a nice picture of how social media commentary works in real life... footprints in the sand are always uniquely personal, and often accompany memorable moments in life.

Like tracks on the beach or desert, social media comments are also time-sensitive. They are quickly washed away by breaking events, to be replaced by new footprints that follow the new tide line and the latest conversation. A great metaphor, my friend!
Posted by Lori Richardson, Portsmouth, New Hampshire | Apr 26, 2010

Miles, this is a great topic and one worthy of much more discussion.

I personally don't mind the lurkers and the "viewers with no comment or rating" because I'm not out there for everyone - only those who are interested, engaged, and ready to take action.

When my son was a Division I college athlete, I was amazed at how many other talented players were around, but how some with much more talent than my son didn't get engaged, didn't apply themselves, or just were not interested - some just quit. It is the same idea with building business. And, for some folks, they just don't know where that "rate-it" button is, so instead of messaging you, they just skip it. Hooray to the reader who actually sent you a message and asked how to do it!

Some folks are so self-focused that they don't actually understand how helpful they can be to their own business by reaching out to others. It may seem counter-intuitive, but it works.

Let's keep this discussion going! Oh, and I'm a Ladies size 7.

Lori

Corporate sales coach, author, fundraising auctioneer
Posted by Chandra Ghai Chan, Jakarta Timur, DKI Jakarta Indonesia | Apr 28, 2010

Thanks Miles. Great article, my first footprint in Biznik just for you.
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | Apr 28, 2010

John, Lori, Owen and Chandra - Thanks for the footprints. Lori even left her shoe size for us!

It only takes a moment and it returns much to both the writer and the receiver.

You all get it, and I thank you.
Posted by wilder baker, darien, Connecticut | Apr 29, 2010

"Footprints in the Sand" is a wonderful metaphor which captures the process of blogging and commenting perfectly. Just like a footprint on the beach, one's social media comments will be washed away, albeit, instead of by waves, by the vast and increasing amount of social media commentary as well as by time itself. Therefore, one must continue to invest the time needed to have the footprint recognized and responded to and deliver the relationship opportunities which are the true value of the process. Great article, Miles. Thanks!
Posted by Susan Clark, Houston, Texas | Apr 29, 2010

One of the reasons you don't get a higher ratio of people who leave ratings vs people who view the story is that you must log in to rate (or leave a footprint). My username doesn't stay logged in to Biznik, though I enjoy reading the articles (like this one).
Posted by Lisa Reese, Nashville, Tennessee | Apr 29, 2010

Thank you, Miles for the great information. I suppose I never realized that I am most definitely a "lurker" by nature. I love to read the articles and always get value from them.

I must admit that it never dawned on me that I have a responsibility to the writer and to others in the network to be graciously engaged in the process. Thank you for pointing this out. This is my first comment posted on any article. Mission accomplished!
Posted by Craig Weindling, Edmonds, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

Thanks for putting words to what many of us just starting out with SM are struggling to understand.

I think what leads most to lurk without contributing is a combination of confusion and a perceived lack of time.

Without a clear idea of why one is participating in SM, even if it just to get a sense of the conversation, can easily lead to an attitude of "my contribution is irrelevant". As you point out, that is certainly not the case.

The time involved in posting even a short comment is often less than the time "wasted" is scanning thru the next few posts that hold no interest to a reader.

I believe it's a matter of training oneself to take a breath and jump in, rather than just continue to survey the landscape without participation.
Posted by Veva Goehler, Portland, Oregon | Apr 29, 2010

Good motivation to not procrastinate Miles. As a numbers person writing is not necessarily my favorite task. I like Craig's comment about taking a breath and jumping in.
I think many of us are trying to tip-toe rather than actually get out and dance.
Posted by Pamela Hollister, Las Vegas, Nevada | Apr 29, 2010

Thank you Miles. Thinking of social media this way really helps me understand why I need to participate more often and leave footprints in the sand.
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

Wilder, Susan, Craig, Veva, Pamela and Lisa, thanks to you all for your thoughts and contribution.

Special credit and a Gold Star goes to Lisa for her first footprint ever! You made my day, and I expect that your effort will encourage others to jump in.

Craig wrote what I find so many feel when he wrote "my contribution is irrelevant". Hopefully with his actions and of so many of you taking this post to heart, you will realize that your contribution is not only relevant, but valued.

The participation and comments in this post have already begun to make an impact on many others and that alone should reinforce the benefit of leaving footprints in your travels online. Feels good doesn't it? Well done!
Posted by Anne Egros, Basking Ridge, New Jersey | Apr 29, 2010

Great post, direct and simple no jargon, I like it

Footprints in the sand will last until the next wave is going to rease it and then you start again,

I don't know what is the speed of the sea waves, most probably slower than a tweet to stay on your screen, so for me what you do by interacting in discussions is to create footprints in your mind and in your heart.

You create long lasting footprints by sharing your knowledge on blogs, websites and other social media and helping others to learn.

Twitter in particular is a fantastic tool to stimulate creativity because things move so fast and go in so many directions. You can create new concepts by linking pieces of information that at first sight have no meaning alone but when combined with other sources fit into what people are dreaming to have but don't know yet they want it.
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

Anne added excellent ideas to the conversation and caused me to realize another benefit of leaving footprints...scroll through the comments already posted and note the locations from across the USA and Belgium, Indonesia and India. Without you taking the time to comment, we would most likely never have crossed paths and learned your perspective. Thanks for the effort
Posted by Diane Bridgwater, Bothell, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

Hi Miles, Great article & I will be forwarding on to some people I know who are "behind the scenes" with their social media and never come out. I always smile when someone tells me they "just got a Twitter account" because I know they have a lot to learn about how social media can help their business, articles like this one is a great way for them to know there is more about social media then tweeting about drinking coffee at the local coffee shop.

Thanks for writing it.
Posted by Beth Schecher, Eastport, New York | Apr 29, 2010

Miles, thanks for the article. This has been a great conversation to follow. Many times I get more from the comments than the original article. I feel like it is a way of socializing with my peers and sharing ideas. In today's world of working from behind your computer this is a great way to have some 'people' contact.
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

Thanks Diane! Beth - you nailed it perfectly - well said.
Posted by Mouena Richards, Los Angeles, California | Apr 29, 2010

Were finalizing details of our biz ad going into facebook, and the comments or responses of support all depends on how our ad would come across to all behind their computers. Thank you for this great reminder.
Posted by Matthew Gittleman, Seattle, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

Miles:

You're a sales guy, and I used to be one. I find myself lamenting the over-use of these "social media." Perhaps this is not a forum for blasting the changing environment of human relations, but I think that it's pathetic that so many people are "hiding" in these media. Texting? Posting? Blogging? What the hell ever happened to picking up the phone or sitting down over a cup of coffee to have an authentic human interaction. Social media over-use is for nerds and losers who never were comfortable with other people. I'm staking a claim right now that all of us need to get out of our chairs, off the computer, and back in the flow of human contact. Enough praise for this cancer that is destroying the beauty of meeting face to face.
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

Matthew, We share some of the same thoughts, however most of your post is pretty harsh. I agree that like any of the other "addictions", internet usage can get out of hand.

One of the key core tenets of Biznik is their focus on getting people out and engaged in face to face meetings. It is because of social sites like Biznik that I have the privilege of meeting dozens of new people every month, face to face. Attended an excellent session yesterday with Kate Phillips and Patrick Snow about public speaking. Not only did I learn some helpful points on the topic, I met and talked with 10-15 people directly, learned about what they do, where they live, etc. Several will trigger further coffee sessions and possibly mutual business activity. I would not have met them if the initial connection had not been made via Biznik.

Pathetic, losers...come on Matthew. If you wanted to stir up the conversation by taking an outrageous position, you have succeeded. If you truly feel this way, your experience does not match mine.

By the way, looks like you do quite a bit of writing and posting yourself judging from your active article writing and website. Have you been "hiding" yourself?

Not sure what me being a sale guy has to do with anything. Matthew you are way off base on this one.
Posted by Kate Phillips, Seattle, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

Too funny, Matthew, you used social media to make a point that people who participate in social media are pathetic losers!? We all apologize for commenting on YOUR articles, Matthew, apparently that makes us losers with nothing better to do with our time but hiding from real human contact.

I think maybe Miles' point about LISTENING here was missed... make sure you actually READ and COMPREHEND what the writer is saying before sticking your foot in your mouth online! That's a footprint you might wish you could "delete" later...

Hey, you both seem like really good guys to me, maybe you'll work it out through some comments, emails, or even over a cup of coffee. I suspect you're both on the same side but just don't know it...

Great article, Miles, you challenge us to be participatants and not just consumers or voyeurs of the online conversation. Point well taken.

And for me, I would say that either "time" is why I don't always comment (faster to read than reply), or because whatever I'm reading doesn't engage me enough to comment. The burden is partially on the communicator to post something that is not bland and boring and hasn't been said and read 100x before.

I think you succeeded at that... as well as doing our community a service by inviting participation.

Kate
Posted by Kate Phillips, Seattle, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

PS, if you're familiar with the sweet but rather over-quoted "Footprints in the Sand" poem, you might enjoy the not-so-reverent take-off on it, "Buttprints in the Sand." I heard a pastor read this once from the pulpit, it was pretty hilarious. http://www.greaterthings.com/Humor/buttprints.htm
Posted by Diane Wilson-simon, Marysville, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

Matthew, another way of looking at it is that the internet's social media have provided people who are uncomfortable with other people (shy might be a better term than loser or nerd) with the opportunity of easing in to personal contact by first getting to know people in a safe environment, i.e., some place where they can lurk for a while before speaking out.

I've met a significant number of people who, like me, have a very difficult time at networking events just going up and introducing oneself to even one other person. We're the ones who hope someone will take the first step in just saying hi--yes, I know it's not a very effective method, but for many of us, just attending an event is a personal achievement.

A lot of us are not outgoing sales guys, but more introverted entrepreneurs, focused on the services or products we provide to our communities--but because we don't have staff to handle public relations & marketing, we have to wear those hats, too. Social media helps break the ice.

I don't have the gift of gab, I shrink from using the telephone (I blame my mom for that one), nor do I have the ability to schmooze. But lurking here, with time to craft my comment in response to yours, I want to say I appreciate your point of view when it comes to the point that it is still important to get our butts out of the house/home studio/whatever and widen our circle of contacts.

I didn't think your comment was particularly harsh, but still, it was pretty blunt. My question (sincere, not rhetorical) to you is, if you were at a networking event would you make such a blunt statement--announcing it to the entire group? I can see where anyone, including me, might be rather blunt in talking to one or 2 people I knew well, but in making public statements we might agree that putting a positive spin on anything we say (first impressions count, don't they) would be a good thing.

My point is not that I don't appreciate your statement, but that the safety provided by this online media allowed you to say what you're really thinking, blunt or not.

Bottom line is that in this day & age, it is important to do both: participate online AND network in person.

Matthew, I'm not offended by anything you said, but you did stir me up enough to bring me out from my lurking and I thank you for that. :-)

Miles, I would think that 2 basic reasons more people read than reply to a post: 1) it takes time away from other tasks that need doing, 2) it's the same as anything else: only a small percent of people respond to free offers or gifts, write letters to the editor, or even vote. Which is why we have to send out ten times more postcards than the number of leads we hope to gain.

Nonetheless, what is cool is the number of people who are actually paying attention & reading.

One might leave a solitary trail in the sand, but apparently there are still those who are noticing your path from further up or down the beach. Thank you for encouraging us to take the steps to leave our own trails.
Posted by Nélida Kreer, Montevideo, Montevideo Uruguay | Apr 29, 2010

Hello Miles, Great eye-catching title, and matching great content. I could not agree more with you. I am an enthusiastic tweeter, and also an enthusiastic RTweeter, the former having to do with "speaking up" and the latter with "listening", and making up, between the two, what you have so aptly dubbed "footprints in the sand". My tweets are aimed at establishing a reputation as an expert in my field, and I believe that I have succeeded in doing just that. And in the process, I have met wonderful people, with a rapport that sometimes goes beyond the purely professional. Sometimes, following the trail of RTweets - I always check out first what I am retweeting to my followers - I find an article or blog post that I really like, and I take a few minutes - well spent, not wasted at all, in my view - to leave a comment. Just doing that feels good - if I get a reaction or a follow after that, so much the better. I think that lurkers, as you called them, are a bit lazy or reluctant to make their voice heard, or audience-shy. Maybe your article will inspire one or two to come out and have their say. I sure hope so.
Posted by Julie Hodges, Sydney, New South Wales Australia | Apr 29, 2010

Just the reminder of what I know is true...I will make sure that I reschedule enough time to take your advice...Thanks again.

Reminders never go astray
Posted by Matthew Gittleman, Seattle, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

Diane:

Your comments are so poignant and well-stated. I truly agree with all of your points about breaking the ice and using these forms of media to extend one's persona into other forums for the purpose of connection and networking. I'm an enthusiastic user of Biznik, and believe that it helps to take the time to craft a thoughtful message that helps the recipient get a sense of a person, and how their mind works.

As you'll see from my reply to Miles, I would not yell "nerd and Facebook" in the same sentence, if I were in a public forum. I'm just frustrated and sad that our world in being defined by technologists who are driving a stake in human interaction at some level. My comments are not for everyone, and may seem completely specious to those who balance an on-line persona with a public one. Here's more:

Miles:

Yikes! That was horrible of me to write what I wrote this a.m., or I should say the tone was totally unacceptable. I'm sorry. In fact, I could feel the color rising in my face as I was going off on social media addicts. I'm just frustrated by the new rules of business and person-to-person communication. Once upon a time, I called a client on the phone, set up a sales call, and enjoyed the human contact and interaction. I'm now seeing a fine line between true engagement, and a sort of passive way of "connecting" via these social media. Miles, I believe that these social media can and do lead to estrangement from others and ourselves.

For example, if I hear another person (mostly teens who see me for treatment because they are too wrapped up in these social media that their grades suffer, their parents are cut-off, and they are a ball of anxiety because of all the pressure of keeping up with posts, texts, etc.) try to convince me that they have "tons of friends" on the internet, I'm going to crack. THEY HAVE NEVER MET SOME OF THESE "FRIENDS!"

I'm saying that we need to have a conversation about what these tools of communication are doing to us, and the commentary of cowardice. I can tell you one thing, Miles, a whole lot of inane, cowardly commentary is taking place within the boundaries of these social media, and it's dangerous. I WAS GUILTY OF THAT A FEW HOURS AGO!

In the extreme case, a girl hangs herself from too much Facebook taunting. My concern is the lack of genuine interaction by many persons who are far more comfortable with their keyboard and GUI, than connecting with another human. If this is how business is going to be done, then I respectfully decline to participate in the further estrangement of ourselves.

Best,

Matthew p.s. would love to have coffee and chat about this and other things.
Posted by Patti Guarino, Bellingham, Washington | Apr 29, 2010

Just stopped by to say Hi! Miles. Thanks for the great advice. I agree you can be the best in your field, have a unique service or product to offer, but if no one knows you're there they won't stop by. Coming from someone who general has the gift of gab in person, I find I have the problem of spending too much time constantly editing myself when I write emails or posting comments, afraid someone will not understand my meaning, (Just like I'm doing now) so I tend to keep my distance. I'm working though, on writing first thoughts so people can better hear who I am through my own words in this moment. ~Patti Ladies size 8
Posted by Alice Smith, Decatur, Georgia | Apr 30, 2010

Thank you, Miles. As a newbie I really appreciated your pinpointing some specific ways to leave a footprint and what might result from doing that. I've been trying to post some comments on my Twitter account and Facebook page, and am happy to know that the effort can pay off. What is harder to get a grip on having a regular day and time to post - keeping up is a challenge.
Posted by Rosemary Levesque, Portland, Oregon | Apr 30, 2010

Hi Miles, Though it's one more thing on my "to do" list, I see the value in actually participating in online media conversations. When put in the perspective you bring forth it can actually be considered rude not to participate from time to time. Thanks for the new perspective. Now, I see that I will have to choose where I spend my time to actually use this tool effectively.
Posted by Terry Maxwell, Saint Constant, Quebec Canada | Apr 30, 2010

Hi Miles,

I have become "fluent" in social media over the last six months and I have yet to blog. I am still trying to get my bearings in this new world by taking more than 15 webinars, subscribing to several newsletters and, as an avid reader, by reading everything I find. Your points are well-taken and I believe that I am getting braver every day to venture out more and more. Thank you!

Terry Maxwell
Posted by Orene Kearn, Burlingame, California | Apr 30, 2010

Great reminder to post thoughtful comments about articles we read in social media. I need to do more of this.
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | Apr 30, 2010

Matthew and I will be grabbing a coffee sometime in the next few weeks-in person-so that is a good thing.

Patti - your perspective is just as important as anyone else's and your contribution will always add additional flavor to the conversation mix.

Alice, there is never enough time but what time you can squeeze in is beneficial-in moderation as Matthew points out.

Rosemary - not rude, but your input always adds value. You will see rewards.

Terry and Orene - and most of the rest of us - I have a quote on my office wall that I face while online that I find very helpful from Walt Disney: "The best way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing." It gets me moving forward many times each day.
Posted by Julie Weishaar, Nanuet, New York | Apr 30, 2010

WOW - I was out of touch for a few days (dental surgery – YUCK!) and look at all I missed! Miles, your article has certainly inspired a ton of communication - great job :)

Nice to "meet" you Matthew. I completely understand where you are coming from - even in your first post. Teenagers and facebook - totally absurd. My 17 year old has over 1500 "friends" - really? She didn't want me as her Facebook "friend" because she said her life is "private" LOL. My retort? "Oh, so you only want to share your life with 1500+ of your dearest and nearest friends?” She didn't think that was funny but alas I have now been granted access to her inner circle of close FB friends.

I think social media, in relevant moderation, and in conjunction with the more traditional face-to-face networking, is a good thing. In life, it has been said "everything in moderation...." and in marketing, I say, "Integration". People tend to be all or nothing and don't always see the middle ground. Not a good or helpful character trait and not an effective marketing strategy. Again, integration of the most relevant and valuable marketing methods for your specific business' industry and needs is anyone's best approach.
Posted by Danielle Baird, Chicago, Illinois | May 03, 2010

Hi Miles,

Thanks for the important reminder to stay visible on the web. I have a tendency to lurk because I'm never sure what to say. I also do a lot of self-editing (like Patti mentioned) so commenting seems to take a long time.

It's good to know that you (and others) are seeing tangible rewards from your efforts -- it's very encouraging!

Thanks again, danielle
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | May 03, 2010

Thanks for your thoughts Julie - your Integration recommendations are a helpful reminder for me.

Danielle - most of us suffer from self-editing - but I found that as you comment more frequently you will "discover your voice" as many of my author friends have been telling me. One technique that I have found helpful is to write my comments out in Notepad or Word, and get it right, spell-check it, copy and paste it into the comment area and then hit submit. Even letting it "age" overnight" can make a difference sometimes.
Posted by Julie Weishaar, Nanuet, New York | May 03, 2010

Hi Miles. I thought you might find this interesting as it is about NOT leaving footprints. A successful blogger called Problogger put up a post a few weeks back asking for videos of our blogging tips that he would post on his future posts. I submitted my video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAvhSQgP_Ac) and when he posted mine along with the others, my traffic increased in a few days from 50 to 694 with not ONE single comment or footprint! While I do so appreciate the increased traffic, I would have also appreciated at least one comment. The interesting thing is that there were some who enjoyed my video because they wrote a comment about it on ProBlogger's post. Now when I visited others' videos on Youtube, I left a footprint on each and every video I viewed. Go figure right?
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | May 03, 2010

Julie-first off, Great video on Blogging! If readers have not clicked on the link above, do so. It is a well-done piece that I will be integrating into an upcoming event here on Biznik about WordPress on May 11th.

Hopefully each of us can spread the word in our own circle of friends and network on the value of leaving comments.
Posted by Reid Peterson, Boulder, Colorado | May 03, 2010

The "heart" of this topic raises some questions I have been holding, since I first got involved with Internet Marketing:

1) When does the conversation finish? Leaving a "footprint in the sand" is a great thing to do, regardless of blogs/articles/etc. have no follow links. You're sharing your knowledge, which helps you develop your expertise.

But the attention span on the web is really short. Being the first to comment helps you be more recognized. Leave a footprint in the sand but try to make sure it's the first one.

2) What will happen with your footprint? Ultimately, businesses are going more online because they think that's where the consumer eyeballs are going. This has truth, but the web is intended to share information.

Just be careful in thinking that the web (specifically, seo) is your magical solution to getting more sales. People want to know more, yes, by surfing the web, but how many people want to buy more by surfing the web?
Posted by Julie Weishaar, Nanuet, New York | May 03, 2010

Thanks Miles. :) How will you be integrating this video into your event?

Hi Reid. Regarding your first comment, when does the conversation finish. I definitely agree with you that web attention span is really short. As a matter of fact, we were discussing the LONG conversations on Linkedin as getting really boring. I think the quality of the conversation is what is important when it comes to length. I find that Biznik is extremely interactive and engaging and really showcases the valuable insights of others (such as yourself) as compared to some other social networking sights.

As far as what will happen with your footprint - the answer is "it depends". The purpose of the social media footprints is NOT to make a sale. There have been many discussions here on that issue as well. Social networking is not selling so you are right on the mark when you say "Just be careful in thinking that the web is your magical solution to getting more sales". It isn't, it is part of the process of branding oneself, learning, connecting and relationship-building. It is not intended as a replacement for increasing sales.
Posted by Anita James, Melbourne, Victoria Australia | May 05, 2010

Thank you Miles and to all those that have contribted :)

I am the type that usually just reads the articles and at most times...almost always learn something new indepth. Your article actually brought me forth to post my first comment and it feels good!

Very inspirational and motivational...thanks again!!
Posted by Matthew Gittleman, Seattle, Washington | May 05, 2010

That's great Anita!
Posted by Jorge Farah, Guayaquil, Guayas Ecuador | May 05, 2010

Very opportune, your thoughts and advice couln´t come on a more needed moment. Leaving foot printst really gives one the opportunity to process information turning it into cognitive stuff. Thank you Miles.
Posted by Jane Falke, Pauma Valley (San Diego Co.), California | May 06, 2010

Thanks, Miles for your wonderful article. I am new to social networking and online marketing. Your article is very helpful to me. Leave a footprint - what a great, easy way to get started to learn something and share ideas. Thanks again.
Posted by Miles Austin, Redmond, Washington | May 06, 2010

Anita - Congratulations on your first footprint! Consider this - since your post from Australia, your name and thoughts have been read and responded to by people in the US, Ecuador and even California! Sorry Jane, just had to take that shot.

This comment flow has been interesting to follow. The key is if you have taken action because of all this and begun a new habit of adding to the many interesting conversations here on Biznik and around the world.
Posted by Kate Phillips, Seattle, Washington | May 07, 2010

Re: overuse of social media by teens, which seems to be the sub-topic here now...

I have a different perspective. Yes, I agree that face-to-face communication and friendship is essential, and that if we're trading that in for Facebook, then we've gone astray. But looking at my teenage daughter's life, I notice this:

She spends more time interacting with humans on Facebook than watching movies or TV, or playing anything like a video or computer game.

Does she sometimes "facebook" (if it's a verb) instead of homework or something else she could/should be doing? Sure. But as a mom, I PREFER that she's using technology to COMMUNICATE with people, rather than using techology to AVOID communicating with people.

Social media gets a bad rap sometimes, I think, because we fail to notice that part of what it has replaced is not face-to-face interaction, but technologies used for passive entertainment that preclude or limit social interaction.

Maybe that's easy for me to say, because my daughter has no problems with also socializing with many people face-to-face. But for less outgoing teens, I think social media can give them a valid way to test and develop their confidence in interacting with others. I.e., they're building skills they can use in the real world as well as online.

For a naturally social teen like my daughter, social media can teach them how to expand networks, expand their own bandwidth for interaction, moderate conversations, organize and promote events, pay attention to what they say and how they say it (because there's nothing like feedback to clarify that what you said isn't quite what you meant), and type really fast (;-). All of which are valuable skills in business, as well as life.

And speaking of paying attention to what we say and how we say it, Matthew, I think my own comments on your comments were a bit amped-up and unnecessarily blunt. I apologize if I left my own footprint in my mouth, and I also appreciated Diane's more gentle approach.

Thanks again for starting a great conversation with your article, Miles!
Posted by Kathy Blackmore, St Helier, Jersey United Kingdom | Nov 09, 2011

Leaving footprints are important to people because some may trace back the footprints and find you. For example, a company selling inkjet cartridges might leave a footprint on a twitter page of another printer company. Some people may find your comment constructive and trace it back to your own site too. Kathy - Cartridge Shop Ink Cartridges