Business in 2013

Over the past several months I’ve been contemplating what changes I’d like to make in 2013. These are not resolutions; I’ve written my thoughts on that topic a couple years back in Don’t Be a Resolutionist. No, the changes I’m referring to are more activity-based, strategic execution in how I conduct my business. The first decision was whether or not to start blogging again, and as evidenced by what you’re reading, the answer is yes. My goal is to tackle topics not being discussed by every other blogger out there because who needs to read another blog on how social media can help your business thrive?

Why blog?

Everyone who creates content does so for one or more reasons. I blog because it helps me crystallize ideas that are scattered in my brain as well as offer a platform allowing others to get a sense of how I think. I’m fascinated by anyone who puts themselves out there for others to judge or critique. Tweets and Facebook posts are nice little nuggets but sometimes we need more than the 30 second commercial to gauge what’s brewing in your cranium.  As many people and businesses are still seeking employees, business partners, and vendors to hire, it makes sense to create content for all to see.

Are you currently blogging and if so, do you know what you’re looking to accomplish? Looking back at the blogs you regularly read, are they adding knowledge or at least entertaining you? The Gregorian calendar (the one most of us follow) helps us in one way, even if only mentally, in that we are able to create a clean slate every January 1^st. It’s a chance to re-evaluate the past 12 months and look to implement lessons learned. It’s also a chance for every gym in the country to air their TV spot.

Quick recap of 2012

This past year saw the rise and popularity of Pinterest, the launch of Google+, and the merger of networks on Instagram with the inclusion of the Android market. People spent more time on social sites last year than any previous year and yet we probably heard more complaining about privacy issues and functionality concerns than ever before. We also saw the abundance of preachy tweets and Facebook posts, and while many expressed their displeasure of said communication, we can expect more of the same as time goes on. It was a year where many took a step back to re-evaluate their online activity.

Topics to discuss in 2013

• How business has changed in the digital age
• Observations about best practices
• New programs, applications, and platforms that arise during the year
• Anything else that is deemed worthy of writing about

While my goal is to blog on a regular basis, I’m focused more on quality than quantity and will only create content when something moves me enough to write about it. In the meantime, I hope you’re interested in following my blog as I look to continue to ask more questions and hopefully provide some insightful, thought-provoking material.

All my best in 2013.