10 Social Media Pros Pick Their Favorite iPad Case
Posted on 08. Nov, 2011 by Jay Baer in Amber Naslund, Ann Handley, Blog, brian clark, CC Chapman, chris brogan, iPad, Jason Falls, scott stratten, Small Business Internet Marketing, Small Business Marketing, social media tools
Given the extraordinary buffet of technology and tech-related options and alternatives available to us, it fascinates me to learn what people I know and trust use on a day-to-day basis.
In this, the debut edition of What The Pros Use, I polled a group of social business and content geniuses to determine what they use to swaddle their iPads. The fact that I didn’t consider for even a nanosecond that any of these folks wouldn’t have an iPad is an interesting circumstance too.
David Armano (@armano)
Executive Vice President, Edelman Digital
David uses the original Apple rubber case for iPad version 1.
“It keeps it as thin as possible, and has a great grip.”
Jay Baer (@jaybaer)
President, Convince & Convert
Apple Smart Cover for iPad 2, but I ensconce the entire thing in the Case SIMPL sleeve. I love Case SIMPL because it turns your iPad (or laptop) sleeve into a mobile office. Room for business cards, a notebook, pens, iPod, and a bunch of other stuff, but still in a small size with meaningful protection. Also, made in Chicago, which is nice.
(Note, Case SIMPL sent me some free samples, so I’m giving away 2 laptop cases and 2 Kindle cases randomly to people that tweet this post.)
Chris Brogan (@chrisbrogan)
Founder, Human Business Works
Chris also uses the Apple magnetic Smart Cover for iPad 2, but is not terribly enthusiastic about that choice.
“I’m using that stupid expensive magnetic lid case for no good reason.”
Brian Clark (@copyblogger)
President, Copyblogger Media
Brian also uses the iPad 2 smart cover, but is branching out with a bluetooth keyboard.
“I just got a Bluetooth keyboard/cover from Brookstone that turns the iPad into a netbook-like device for writing on planes, etc.”
CC Chapman (@cc_chapman)
Raconteur, Co-author Content Rules
Like David Armano, CC uses iPad 1 and the original rubber case, due in particular to its easy folding for typing purposes.
“It doesn’t add much weight. I always looked for a softer leather one, and could never find one.”
Nicole D’Alonzo (@NikisNotes)
Social Media Manager, Porter Novelli
Niki also uses the iPad 2 smart cover, but may be the only person I’ve spoken with who actually likes it a lot.
“The slim design folds nicely to prop-up my iPad while I’m typing or watching videos. It doesn’t insulate the back of the iPad 2, I manage that by slipping it into my laptop sleeve.”
Jason Falls (@jasonfalls)
President, Social Media Explorer
This is not Jason Falls.
Always supporting the local angle, Jason uses the ModulrCase manufactured in Louisville. It’s a multi-functional case that even includes a refrigerator magnet mount!
“You can clip it into a table-top stand, a shoulder strap, a wall mount, and more. The plastic case protects it but it doesn’t add a lot of weight or bulk. I wouldn’t use anything else, and frankly love the hell out of it.”
Ann Handley (@marketingprofs)
Chief Content Officer, MarketingProfs
This is not Ann Handley in repose
A recently purchaser of the iPad 2, exacting Ann has been pondering her case options. After eschewing the Smart Cover and several other candidates, she settled on the DODO Case.
“It’s light, functional, somewhat protective, stylish, and not that pricey (Bonus)!”
Amber Naslund (@ambercadabra)
Vice President, Radian6
Road warrior Amber swears by the Go In Case, which offers multiple integrated screen positions.
“It handles multiple positions with stability, protects it when I drop it (because I do that often enough for it to matter), and in my full-to-bursting laptop bag, can travel in a suitcase without getting crushed.”
Scott Stratten (@unmarketing)
Author, UnMarketing
Scott uses the iPad 2 Smart Cover, but recognizes it may not be a 100% solution.
“It increases my coolness factor by 20%. I like how it turns the iPad off, and it’s thin for easy packing. But, it can slide off when I take it out of my carry-on, and offers really no protection, since it’s just a flap.”
There you have it. What the Pros Use: iPad cases. Lots of market penetration for the smart cover, but not a lot of love for it, really. Several other interesting options to consider.
(Don’t forget that I’m giving away laptop and Kindle cases randomly to people that tweet this post, courtesy of Case SIMPL).
What do you use for your iPad?
New Blog Design Now With Comments
Posted on 15. Jun, 2011 by Michel Fortin in Blog, brian clark, chris brogan, clutter, comment, Darren Rowse, feedback, News, Small Business Internet Marketing, Small Business Marketing
After a much needed change, I decided to completely revamp my blog. The old one was good, but it was cluttered, too busy, and distracting.
I wanted to simplify.
I wanted to get rid of the clutter and look crisper, cleaner, and more focused. The previous one had too many ads, messages, social icons, etc.
I loved the overall design and some of the main design elements from Chris Brogan, Brian Clark, and Darren Rowse. So I decided to emulate them.
I realized that they use Genesis as their framework, but I’m in love with WooThemes. In fact, I wanted a WooTheme theme because all my other blogs have WooThemes, and I love their framework, their sidebar manager, their built-in shortcodes, etc.
I wanted those features on my own blog!
Lastly, I wanted to re-introduce commenting, but with a twist. I once used Disqus, which I liked a lot. But I wanted more social media integration. Recently, LiveFyre came along with full social networking integration and some good reviews.
So this is it! But I need your feedback on a couple of things…
What do you think? I’m still tweaking it, and I not 100% sure I want to keep it like this, including the comments. Let me know in the comments.
What else do you think I should add or remove? If you look at the bottom footer section, there’s nothing (compared to last time where I had the most popular posts, etc).
Brian Clark and Chris Brogran have nothing, too. But Darren’s blog has a neat footer section. Ideas? Suggestions? Let me know in comments below.
New Blog Design Now With Comments originally appeared on The Michel Fortin Blog. Please visit to subscribe to it, or Tweet This.
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read It 1
Posted on 17. May, 2011 by John Jantsch in Ann Handley, Blog, brian clark, Brian Halligan, joe pulizzi, NSTuesday, Small Business Week
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read It 1
This content from: Duct Tape Marketing
This post is one in a series of five guest posts authored by the super star bloggers pictured below. As part of a celebration of National Small Business Week we are asking readers to match all five guests posts up with the contributing blogger to be entered for a chance to win an iPad2. Read all five posts in today’s series and come back each day this week for five new posts in this great educational series and another chance to win.
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read It 1
Let’s take a step back. First and foremost, is this content you’re creating remarkable? Does it offer something valuable? The first step toward getting eyeballs to view your content is to appeal to your target audience’s wants and needs. Are you delivering your points in an interesting way that makes it enjoyable to read/watch/listen to? You can create content day-in and day-out, but if it’s no good, people won’t be coming back to you for more.
Now that we’ve got that covered, let’s take a second look at the content you’re creating. Is it optimized for search engines? Did you use the right keywords that will draw in the types of readers you’re hoping to attract? If someone conducted a search in Google using a keyword by which you want to get found, would that person come across your content? Remember: the key to making your content visible in search engines is optimizing it.
Okay, so now you’ve got remarkable content that’s been well optimized to gain some traction in search engines. Are you promoting it? How are you promoting it? Be sure to share links to your content in social media. “But I don’t have any followers,” you say? Start building a following so your content has the potential to reach as many readers as possible. Add social media sharing buttons to your blog articles so people who read and like your content can easily share it with their followers. The great thing about social media is that your content is not only limited to the eyes of your followers, but can also reach the eyes of others’ followers.
Once you’ve got all that down, keep on creating! Regular content creation is the basis for any successful inbound marketing program. If you want to continue to get found online, you need to generate a constant flow of fresh, remarkable content. The good news is: inbound marketing success is relative to the size of your brain, not the size of your wallet, so the possibilities are endless!
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read It 2
Posted on 17. May, 2011 by John Jantsch in Ann Handley, Blog, brian clark, Brian Halligan, Janine Popick, joe pulizzi, NSTuesday, Small Business Week
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read It 2
This content from: Duct Tape Marketing
This post is one in a series of five guest posts authored by the super star bloggers pictured below. As part of a celebration of National Small Business Week we are asking readers to match all five guests posts up with the contributing blogger to be entered for a chance to win an iPad2. Read all five posts in today’s series and come back each day this week for five new posts in this great educational series and another chance to win.
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read It 2
Make It Good
Here’s what makes great content:
- Humorous stuff
- Behind the scenes stories
- Controversial, political & religious
- New happenings
- Tips & tricks, hints, lists, how-tos
- Reviews
That’s the type of content that can draw readers in and engage them, especially if it’s relevant.
Plus, snappy headlines or email subject lines are a must! And don’t make your content too long, don’t use great big paragraphs, have easy to read fonts and bullets are key. Also, break up thoughts and subjects with subheads so your reader can scan. This goes for anything online!
Get People TO Your Content
If you’re writing a great email newsletter and you’ve lured them in with your snappy subject line, good for you! We’ve had success when we give a “taste” of the content in the newsletter, then drive them to a site or blog for the rest of the story. This way you potentially get them to look at other content you’ve written as well.
When you create your content whether it’s in an email, blog or website, let the world know! Publish it to Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. And submit it to StumbleUpon and Digg at the very least.
One more thing, include the keywords that you optimize your site for. When potential readers are using search engines, you’re going to want your content as high in the rankings as possible.
Get Readers to Know YOU
The first thing I do when I get to a blog is research who the writer is. I want to know that the person behind the words has credibility and is passionate about what they write. So make sure you publish your bio somewhere on your site so your readers get to know you.
Another great way to get people to know you is to comment on other blogs. Not only will your comment and your information be displayed, but the blogger you’re commenting on may end up following and commenting on your blog too. And if you like something you see on Twitter follow them and retweet (RT) their content. If you find content on Facebook interesting, click the Like link.
Finally, write the way you speak. Your readers want to read what you have to say so just say it and let your personality shine through!
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read it 3
Posted on 17. May, 2011 by John Jantsch in Ann Handley, Blog, brian clark, Brian Halligan, Janine Popick, joe pulizzi, NSTuesday, Small Business Week
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read it 3
This content from: Duct Tape Marketing
This post is one in a series of five guest posts authored by the super star bloggers pictured below. As part of a celebration of National Small Business Week we are asking readers to match all five guests posts up with the contributing blogger to be entered for a chance to win an iPad2. Read all five posts in today’s series and come back each day this week for five new posts in this great educational series and another chance to win.
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read It 3
Ever heard the saying “It’s not what you know, it’s who you know?”
Well, when it comes to creating effective online content, it’s not what you know, it’s what you know that you can teach others.
After that, it’s right back to who you know, same as always.
People Distribute Content
If you’re creating online content, you’ve got to get the word out about it for people to share it far and wide with others. And that process starts with good old-fashioned relationships.
It’s not called social media for nothing. Beyond the creation of content itself, online content distribution begins with key relationships with others in your subject matter arena.
It’s easier to establish these relationships than ever, thanks to social networks. And since social networks are where content sharing happens, it makes sense to begin making those relationships early on.
Help to be Helped
The key is to follow and be useful to people who are also producing content in your niche. Share their content and provide meaningful comments on their blog posts.
Your next step might be to offer to guest post for them, which provides them with vital content and provides you with exposure to their audience. You’ve now just gone from anonymous to a contributor with access – and that’s the beginning of a real world relationship that drives the virtual world as well.
Don’t view those who create content on the same topic as competitors. This is zero-sum thinking that usually has very little application in the wide-open marketplace of online ideas.
Complement, Don’t Compete
Think of your work as a complement to the content others create. You won’t be seen as a subject matter authority or a thought leader in your industry if you jealously guard your ideas from the so-called competition.
Be generous with your ideas and the relationships you form. You’ll find that your content spreads much farther and wider than it would otherwise.
And that’s the idea, right?
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read it 4
Posted on 17. May, 2011 by John Jantsch in Ann Handley, Blog, brian clark, Brian Halligan, Copywriting, Janine Popick, joe pulizzi, NSTuesday, Small Business Week
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read it 4
This content from: Duct Tape Marketing
This post is one in a series of five guest posts authored by the super star bloggers pictured below. As part of a celebration of National Small Business Week we are asking readers to match all five guests posts up with the contributing blogger to be entered for a chance to win an iPad2. Read all five posts in today’s series and come back each day this week for five new posts in this great educational series and another chance to win.
Okay, I’m Creating Content How Do I Get Someone to Read It 4
Yes, it’s true. All small businesses create content. Nine in 10 small businesses develop content to drive marketing goals.
But since less than 50% of SMBs feel satisfied with their content marketing efforts, obviously there is a major disconnect.
Here are 10 reasons that may be true for you, and what you need to do about it.
1. Lack of Content Goals. What’s the behavior you want to see as a result of the content you are creating?
2. Your Content is about Everything. You have no niche. You create content on the entire industry. What can you be the leading expert in? Focus.
3. The Content is about YOU YOU YOU. Remember, your customers don’t care about you. Focus on your customers’ pain points and create content around that.
4. Good Enough is not Good Enough. Your content is competing with everyone and everything, even traditional media companies. Make your content unique, interesting, fun (if possible), multichannel and execute the crap out of it.
5. Lack of a Content Calendar. Stop thinking from a campaign mentality. Content for your customers is a promise. Execute a content marketing editorial calendar.
6. Not Leveraging Employees. Your employees are your content assets. Find the 10% of employees that are content creators and nurture that.
7. People will Magically Engage in your Content. Your content isn’t good enough that the magic content fairies will find it and spread it around the internet. Find out where your customers are on the web and be active in those communities.
8. Your Content Has No Chief Content Officer. Look at the great media brands like the Wall Street Journal. All of them have a chief editor that owns the content. Find your chief editor.
9. No Content Experience. Most brands don’t, so get over it. FIX: Hire a journalist.
10. You Don’t Have Support. Those brands that don’t have internal support for content marketing are 300% more likely to stink at content marketing. Do the previous nine steps and, as Matt Heinz says, “Don’t invent new metrics. Track more but report less. Focus on behaviors.”
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