Renee C Quinn

What exactly does it mean to have a personal brand? How can one use social media to represent a larger company or firm yet still maintain a personal brand? I published an article in June of 2011 "With Social Media, YOU are Your Own Brand" where I explained that although someone may be using social media to promote the offerings of the company or firm they work for, large or small, they are doing so as individuals. This article builds upon this previous article, by sharing 5 simple steps… Show more

What exactly does it mean to have a personal brand? How can one use social media to represent a larger company or firm yet still maintain a personal brand? I published an article in June of 2011 "With Social Media, YOU are Your Own Brand" where I explained that although someone may be using social media to promote the offerings of the company or firm they work for, large or small, they are doing so as individuals. This article builds upon this previous article, by sharing 5 simple steps people can take to build your own personal brand using social media. Show less

Here I discuss the realistic expectations of cost for preparing, filing and prosecuting a patent application and give pointers on how inventors with smaller budgets can save money without skimping on the process.

With the end of 2011 nearing, I created a list of “Social Media Resolutions” that business should consider implementing in their 2012 marketing and brand building social media campaigns. I share not only what to do but how to do it.

Having a brand is not just for big corporations and well-known products. Big businesses, small businesses, law firms, entrepreneurs and anyone else wanting to make a name for themselves can do so by building a brand. In this article I discuss 14 different ways that businesses can do to benefit from powers of social media.

Many people to not know the purpose of Twitter is, nor how to use it. Here I discuss 5 of the most common misconceptions about Twitter, while helping people to both understand and know how to use Twitter.

There are many myths and misconceptions that keep business owners and marketers from reaping the benefits that social media. Many others still have yet to chime in. In this publication, I discuss some of the most popular myths surrounding social media and how one can move beyond them and reap the benefits of social media.

Many of the largest and most recognizable restaurant brands are starting to realize the power and potential of social media, not only for the use of their clientele but also in getting their message out in new and innovative ways. They have begun to realize that building larger online communities equates to higher numbers of restaurant sales. In this article I discuss how media outlet Nation’s Restaurant News teamed up with an analytics and digital branding firm, DigitalCoCo to create the… Show more

Many of the largest and most recognizable restaurant brands are starting to realize the power and potential of social media, not only for the use of their clientele but also in getting their message out in new and innovative ways. They have begun to realize that building larger online communities equates to higher numbers of restaurant sales. In this article I discuss how media outlet Nation’s Restaurant News teamed up with an analytics and digital branding firm, DigitalCoCo to create the Restaurant Social Media Index (RSMI) highlighting the industry’s Top 100 each quarter.
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A comparative analysis of the Get a Mac and T-Mobile iTouch 4G ad campaigns.

With the news of Steve Jobs' passing, in celebration of his life and his accomplishments over the years this article features a timeline of Jobs’ history, and the history of Apple, beginning in 1972 when he graduated from Homestead High School in Cupertino, CA, and focusing on the major events in a memorable life.

Here I discuss how Apple Computers, The Coca Cola Company, Nike Shoes and Dell Computers use social media. I compare and analyze their use of social media on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter.

President Obama sign into law the America Invents Act during a ceremony at the Thomas Jefferson School for Science and Technology. This was a recount of the event including direct excerpts from President Obama's speech.

How often do you use a telephone book to search for a business of interest? Phonebook? What’s a phonebook, right? How often do you search in the online yellow pages for a particular business? Probably anytime you want to know how to contact a company of interest. And how often do you find that the business of interest does not have a website? How often do members of the business community hand you a business card with an email address @yahoo.com or the like? In today’s business world it is… Show more

How often do you use a telephone book to search for a business of interest? Phonebook? What’s a phonebook, right? How often do you search in the online yellow pages for a particular business? Probably anytime you want to know how to contact a company of interest. And how often do you find that the business of interest does not have a website? How often do members of the business community hand you a business card with an email address @yahoo.com or the like? In today’s business world it is amazing to see just how many businesses still do not have a web presence. Show less

Having a small business means having many challenges, especially in the earliest phases of development. Faced with challenges such as letting people know about your new business, establishing and augmenting your brand, creating a website, designing logos, developing and implementing marketing initiatives, creating and printing real world marketing materials, procuring new clients and customers, building and maintaining a blog, initiating and executing a social media campaign, acquiring… Show more

Having a small business means having many challenges, especially in the earliest phases of development. Faced with challenges such as letting people know about your new business, establishing and augmenting your brand, creating a website, designing logos, developing and implementing marketing initiatives, creating and printing real world marketing materials, procuring new clients and customers, building and maintaining a blog, initiating and executing a social media campaign, acquiring followers within your social media platforms, securing office space at a reasonable cost, book keeping and everything else that must be done during the start-up process. This seemingly endless list of tasks seems to imply that starting a new business will most certainly be a stressful and very expensive endeavor. But starting and growing a small business, does not have to cost you an arm and a leg nor does having a small business mean that your business has to look “Small.” Show less

Starting a small business can have many challenges for any entrepreneur. Getting the word out about your business, getting your website created or completed, finding clients, having the means for your clients to contact you, office space, (deciding is it necessary), hiring , book keeping and everything else just further complicates the start-up process. It’s endless and makes starting a business seem like such a daunting task. But just because you have or are starting a small business, doesn’t… Show more

Starting a small business can have many challenges for any entrepreneur. Getting the word out about your business, getting your website created or completed, finding clients, having the means for your clients to contact you, office space, (deciding is it necessary), hiring , book keeping and everything else just further complicates the start-up process. It’s endless and makes starting a business seem like such a daunting task. But just because you have or are starting a small business, doesn’t mean that you have to look like one. Show less

Google, which is undoubtedly the most popular website in the world seems to constantly be challenging the domination of the second-most popular website, Facebook, which is the world’s largest online social network that currently boasts 750 million users. For this reason, Google has been trying to create a social platform of it’s own to rival the social media giant, not just once, but now for the fifth time. First there was Orkut, which was launched one month before Facebook in January of… Show more

Google, which is undoubtedly the most popular website in the world seems to constantly be challenging the domination of the second-most popular website, Facebook, which is the world’s largest online social network that currently boasts 750 million users. For this reason, Google has been trying to create a social platform of it’s own to rival the social media giant, not just once, but now for the fifth time. First there was Orkut, which was launched one month before Facebook in January of 2004, followed by Jaiku, which was founded in February of 2006, followed next by Wave which was released in September 2009 and is no longer being developed as a stand alone product, followed next by Buzz which was launched in February of 2010. But Google has not given up and last month unveiled its Google+ program as the newest attempt to trump Facebook’s popularity Show less

You have a business, a website and a traditional marketing strategy. But now you have decided to give social media a try. You feel that Facebook would be a good place for you to reach many potential customers within your target audience. But when you go onto Facebook you notice that there are both fan pages and groups available for use by businesses. But how do you decide which is best for your business? In order to answer this question, you must first know what each is, what they offer… Show more

You have a business, a website and a traditional marketing strategy. But now you have decided to give social media a try. You feel that Facebook would be a good place for you to reach many potential customers within your target audience. But when you go onto Facebook you notice that there are both fan pages and groups available for use by businesses. But how do you decide which is best for your business? In order to answer this question, you must first know what each is, what they offer and what the difference are between the two. Show less

When you want to learn about a new business, the latest news, the upcoming weather or the current sales at your favorite store, what is the first thing you do? In today’s technologically savvy times, majority of all people asked this question would probably answer it the same way; they turn to the Internet. Computer prices have dropped significantly since the inception of the home personal computer and now most homes, schools and libraries now have computers. When we want to find out more… Show more

When you want to learn about a new business, the latest news, the upcoming weather or the current sales at your favorite store, what is the first thing you do? In today’s technologically savvy times, majority of all people asked this question would probably answer it the same way; they turn to the Internet. Computer prices have dropped significantly since the inception of the home personal computer and now most homes, schools and libraries now have computers. When we want to find out more about a company, now we simply go to our favorite search engine and search for the company by name. But how often do you find that the company you are looking to learn more about still does not have an Internet presence through a website of their own? When you go to business networking functions, do you still receive business cards only to find they have email address ending in @hotmail.com or the like? In today’s business world it is hard to fathom just how many businesses still do not have a web presence. Show less

Although Facebook originally discussed the use of facial recognition technology in a small blog post on the site back in December, it was listed as unavailable until earlier this month. The social media giant released its new Autotag facial-recognition tool that will allow users to autotag photos of their friends based on what they look like. But what was most odd about this release is that they did so quietly and under the radar with little thought to the risks that could be associated with… Show more

Although Facebook originally discussed the use of facial recognition technology in a small blog post on the site back in December, it was listed as unavailable until earlier this month. The social media giant released its new Autotag facial-recognition tool that will allow users to autotag photos of their friends based on what they look like. But what was most odd about this release is that they did so quietly and under the radar with little thought to the risks that could be associated with the tool. Rather than having the ability to opt-in to this new tool, you have to go into your settings and opt-out. With more than 500 million active users, even if you choose not to be tagged in photos, it is inevitable that others are tagging you and perhaps even your small children without your knowledge. Show less

When people think of a “brand” they often think of the Nike Swoosh or the Classic Coca Cola bottle (pictured left, courtesy of The Coca Cola Company). But it takes time and money to build a brand to that level. Small businesses just getting started do not generally have the means to advertise as a way of building their brand? When the small business first starts out there is usually little to no funds in their “advertising budget.” What’s that right? But you don’t have to have a large budget or… Show more

When people think of a “brand” they often think of the Nike Swoosh or the Classic Coca Cola bottle (pictured left, courtesy of The Coca Cola Company). But it takes time and money to build a brand to that level. Small businesses just getting started do not generally have the means to advertise as a way of building their brand? When the small business first starts out there is usually little to no funds in their “advertising budget.” What’s that right? But you don’t have to have a large budget or even any additional money allocated for advertising and brand building over and above what you already need to be spending for essential supplies. In fact, you can start establishing your brand identity during your business-building phase using only the money necessary to get your business up off the ground. Show less

With social media, you are your brand. But what exactly does that mean? If you are part of a larger firm or business, you may be using social media to promote the products and services your company/firm offers, but you are doing so as an individual. Social media is about sharing content and building relationships. The general voice of your company/firm would not work in social media, or in face to face networking for that matter, without each individual representative of the company displaying… Show more

With social media, you are your brand. But what exactly does that mean? If you are part of a larger firm or business, you may be using social media to promote the products and services your company/firm offers, but you are doing so as an individual. Social media is about sharing content and building relationships. The general voice of your company/firm would not work in social media, or in face to face networking for that matter, without each individual representative of the company displaying their own personalities and adding unique insight that ultimately is what attracts new, potential clients. Show less

LinkedIn (NYSE: LNKD) announced this week that the professional social networking giant is now valued at $8.79 Billion, roughly 38 times sales figures reported in 2010, after it’s first day as a publicly traded company on May 18. This may be hard to believe by many because LinkedIn has never reported being profitable, nor have they ever made more than $250 million in any one year. However, within minutes of LinkedIn’s Initial Public Offering (IPO) of 7.84 million shares priced at $45, the… Show more

LinkedIn (NYSE: LNKD) announced this week that the professional social networking giant is now valued at $8.79 Billion, roughly 38 times sales figures reported in 2010, after it’s first day as a publicly traded company on May 18. This may be hard to believe by many because LinkedIn has never reported being profitable, nor have they ever made more than $250 million in any one year. However, within minutes of LinkedIn’s Initial Public Offering (IPO) of 7.84 million shares priced at $45, the shares doubled in price and at one point in the day LinkedIn stock peaked in excess of $122 per share. In fact when the stock market closed on day one, shares last traded at $96 per share and on day two shares last traded at $93.09 per share. Show less

Social media has taken the world by storm. Everyone from college students, to politicians, news media outlets, to business professionals, small and big businesses, to musicians, artists and other individual people both young and old have jumped on the social media bandwagon. When creating a marketing campaign, no matter what the business is, social media is an obvious choice for those who wish to expand their reach beyond that of the local phone book. Given that social media is still quite… Show more

Social media has taken the world by storm. Everyone from college students, to politicians, news media outlets, to business professionals, small and big businesses, to musicians, artists and other individual people both young and old have jumped on the social media bandwagon. When creating a marketing campaign, no matter what the business is, social media is an obvious choice for those who wish to expand their reach beyond that of the local phone book. Given that social media is still quite new to the business arena, there are many opportunities missed because of common yet avoidable mistakes. On February 18th I wrote an article on the Top 10 Mistakes Businesses Make with Social Media. Since then I have written several articles on Attorney Marketing and Brand Building and Common Marketing Mistakes Attorneys Make Part one and Part two. However, today I would like to speak specifically to the use of social media by attorneys and the common yet avoidable mistakes attorneys often make. Show less

Previously I discussed the 7 Most Common Marketing Mistakes Attorneys Make when building their marketing campaigns. But 7 is just the tip of the iceberg. Following are additional mistakes attorneys should look to avoid when building their marketing campaigns and building their brand and what steps you can take to avoid such mistakes. Although this article is written with the attorney in mind, these concepts, when applied to any industry will ultimately lead to increased market share and… Show more

Previously I discussed the 7 Most Common Marketing Mistakes Attorneys Make when building their marketing campaigns. But 7 is just the tip of the iceberg. Following are additional mistakes attorneys should look to avoid when building their marketing campaigns and building their brand and what steps you can take to avoid such mistakes. Although this article is written with the attorney in mind, these concepts, when applied to any industry will ultimately lead to increased market share and profitability. So without further ado… Show less

It is probably safe to say that most attorneys are very good at what they do when it comes to the law they practice. However, being a good or even great attorney does not a marketing expert make. One thing for sure is that attorneys are busy and pay great attention to detail in their work. When it comes to marketing their businesses however, attorneys may find it difficult to take off their attorney “hats” and look at things from the outside in. If an attorney or firm is to take on their own… Show more

It is probably safe to say that most attorneys are very good at what they do when it comes to the law they practice. However, being a good or even great attorney does not a marketing expert make. One thing for sure is that attorneys are busy and pay great attention to detail in their work. When it comes to marketing their businesses however, attorneys may find it difficult to take off their attorney “hats” and look at things from the outside in. If an attorney or firm is to take on their own marketing agendas, there are some seemingly simple yet very basic elements that need to be implemented in order to see success. Show less

Social media has become the fastest growing online phenomenon. Millions have flocked to Facebook and LinkedIn and Twitter. Businesses of all sizes, entrepreneurs and individual inventors from nearly every industry have chimed in.

But as with any business strategy, all of your time money and energy are wasted if you don’t know what you should do and what mistakes you should avoid to get the most out of your online efforts.

I write often about brand building, marketing and social media for start-up companies and businesses of every size, shape and industry. However, today I focus on the basics of marketing and brand building for attorneys. Whether you are an individual attorney or part of a rather large firm, it is imperative to remember that when preparing your marketing strategy you are not simply trying to sell your services, but are, in fact, building your own brand.

Brand building can be defined as “Building the perceptions of your target audience.” Those who work in marketing usually say that in order to really build your brand you need to be consistent in your marketing campaigns. Consistency and repetition are a sure way to create a focused brand image and ingrain your message into the minds of those you are trying to reach. However, Geico, has shown that, when done right, you can break the widely accepted and customary brand building “rules” often… Show more

Brand building can be defined as “Building the perceptions of your target audience.” Those who work in marketing usually say that in order to really build your brand you need to be consistent in your marketing campaigns. Consistency and repetition are a sure way to create a focused brand image and ingrain your message into the minds of those you are trying to reach. However, Geico, has shown that, when done right, you can break the widely accepted and customary brand building “rules” often having numerous different iconic ad campaigns running at once. So today I’d like to discuss 5 of the more memorable GEICO ad campaigns beginning with the GEICO Gecko® through the most recently added Mike McGlone Commercials and analyze what your business can learn from these ad campaigns. Show less

Social Media has quickly become the fastest growing online phenomenon. Originally Social networking was for college students and artists and musicians, but increasingly businesses of all sizes have jumped on the Social Media bus. Small, medium and large sized business, retail store owners, politicians, journalistic publications, law firms, chain stores, restaurants and businesses from nearly every industry have chimed in. Whether you have a brick and mortar retail location or are solely… Show more

Social Media has quickly become the fastest growing online phenomenon. Originally Social networking was for college students and artists and musicians, but increasingly businesses of all sizes have jumped on the Social Media bus. Small, medium and large sized business, retail store owners, politicians, journalistic publications, law firms, chain stores, restaurants and businesses from nearly every industry have chimed in. Whether you have a brick and mortar retail location or are solely online, Social Media can help. But as with any business strategy one can partake in, all of your efforts including, time and money are wasted if you do not know what mistakes you should avoid in order to get the most out of your online efforts.

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What makes a successful website? How can you get consumers past the home page? What do you feature on your website? How do you set it up? Whether you are starting from scratch or simply trying to improve the website that you already have, there are key components that every website should possess, twelve of which I will share with you today.

When asked to name the Social Media Site most widely used by the business community, (in your opinion), I would venture a guess that more often than not people think of LinkedIn. LinkedIn is one of the few non-industry specific Social Media venues that are widely utilized by professionals. But there is so much more to LinkedIn than just housing your resume. In a three part series on using LinkedIn to address The Importance of Social Networking for Business, I outlined 20 different ways you… Show more

When asked to name the Social Media Site most widely used by the business community, (in your opinion), I would venture a guess that more often than not people think of LinkedIn. LinkedIn is one of the few non-industry specific Social Media venues that are widely utilized by professionals. But there is so much more to LinkedIn than just housing your resume. In a three part series on using LinkedIn to address The Importance of Social Networking for Business, I outlined 20 different ways you can use LinkedIn to not only grow your business but to also Build Your Brand. However, since I wrote that series LinkedIn has added new ways to customize your LinkedIn Profile. You can now even add a list of patents!
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My brother-in-law has been a lover of all things Apple for as long as I can remember. In fact, on the first day the iPad was released, he waited in line several hours just to be one of the first people to get one. Every time I would complain about my PC and the issues I was having, he’d inevitably say, “Gotta get a MAC.” First, we got our iPhones. Next, after many hours and probably even days of lost work time, we finally broke down and bought my iMac. And most recently, I received my… Show more

My brother-in-law has been a lover of all things Apple for as long as I can remember. In fact, on the first day the iPad was released, he waited in line several hours just to be one of the first people to get one. Every time I would complain about my PC and the issues I was having, he’d inevitably say, “Gotta get a MAC.” First, we got our iPhones. Next, after many hours and probably even days of lost work time, we finally broke down and bought my iMac. And most recently, I received my beloved iPad as a gift, which I quickly realized and am still learning just how essential this tool has become to my business. In fact, with all of the applications available for my iPad, it has replaced my PC laptop. I’ve written articles on Mobile Business and Mobile Social Media apps you can download to your iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch to take your business on the go. Following is the next installment of my business apps series that can help you take your business on the road with you, make your businesses more efficient and Make Small Businesses Look Bigger. Show less

In early September of 2010, I was given my new favorite toy, an Apple iPad, as a gift. I originally used the iPad to read books, play games and to surf the Internet. However, I have discovered that the iPad is a fantastic business tool as well. Whenever I am away from my office, I take my iPad with me. With the right applications, the iPad has virtually replaced my laptop. In two recent articles, Mobile Business Tools – Social Media Apps for the Apple iPad, iPhone & iPod and On the Go… Show more

In early September of 2010, I was given my new favorite toy, an Apple iPad, as a gift. I originally used the iPad to read books, play games and to surf the Internet. However, I have discovered that the iPad is a fantastic business tool as well. Whenever I am away from my office, I take my iPad with me. With the right applications, the iPad has virtually replaced my laptop. In two recent articles, Mobile Business Tools – Social Media Apps for the Apple iPad, iPhone & iPod and On the Go Business Apps – Mobile Business Tools for Apple iPad, iPhone & iPod, I discussed some of the many applications available to help make the iPad an essential tool. Following are three additional Apps that you can use to turn your portable Apple device, into your most valuable business investment.
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Chances are you have already put some thought into Social media at some point over the course of 2010. And chances are you or your company is currently finalizing your advertising and marketing budgets for 2011. But how many of you have included Social Media as a part of your marketing and advertising campaigns? Are you on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Plaxo, IP Alley and other social media sites pertinent to your industry or specialty within your field? Those you have created profiles on… Show more

Chances are you have already put some thought into Social media at some point over the course of 2010. And chances are you or your company is currently finalizing your advertising and marketing budgets for 2011. But how many of you have included Social Media as a part of your marketing and advertising campaigns? Are you on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Plaxo, IP Alley and other social media sites pertinent to your industry or specialty within your field? Those you have created profiles on different sites, how active are you in your social media marketing campaigns? How often do you update your work experience and other information? How often do you post content on your profile? How often do you tweet? These are all things you can and should do. And since we are nearing the end of 2010, I thought I would share with you a list of “Social Media Resolutions” that you should consider implementing in your 2011 Marketing and Brand Building Social Media campaign. Show less

In a recent article, Mobile Business Tools – Social Media Apps for Apple iPad, iPhone & iPod, I discussed the topic of Social Media/Networking applications that are available for download on the iPhone, iPad and iPod that can help you stay connected to your Social Media. There are thousands of other Mobile Business Tools available to you and can be found in multiple different application categories. Following is a guide to several of the more popular Mobile Business Apps that one can use… Show more

In a recent article, Mobile Business Tools – Social Media Apps for Apple iPad, iPhone & iPod, I discussed the topic of Social Media/Networking applications that are available for download on the iPhone, iPad and iPod that can help you stay connected to your Social Media. There are thousands of other Mobile Business Tools available to you and can be found in multiple different application categories. Following is a guide to several of the more popular Mobile Business Apps that one can use when on the go, whether to make your trip easier or to take the office with you. Heed my warning though — once you start using this tools you will never know when to “go home!” Show less

A friend recently emailed me to say, “I am having trouble believing that the Quinn family has converted to Mac products.” But yes, we could not resist the power of the dark side, straying away from Microsoft and moving over to Apple. First we got our iPhones then I got my iMac and now I even have an iPad, which is amazing for checking out your fantasy football scores, I might add. But I digress. I have noticed on an increasing basis that my iPhone and iPad are fantastic tools for business on… Show more

A friend recently emailed me to say, “I am having trouble believing that the Quinn family has converted to Mac products.” But yes, we could not resist the power of the dark side, straying away from Microsoft and moving over to Apple. First we got our iPhones then I got my iMac and now I even have an iPad, which is amazing for checking out your fantasy football scores, I might add. But I digress. I have noticed on an increasing basis that my iPhone and iPad are fantastic tools for business on the go. Those of you who follow me, know that I love to write about using social media and social networking as business tools to grow your business. Now with my iPad, and iPhone, I also have the freedom and convenience of mobility that these products have given me.
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You’ve seen it all over the place… Privacy Concerns, Security Issues, Identity Stolen, Dangers of Social Networking, Social Media Threats, Personal Information Sold. All too often Facebook is the culprit; notorious for breaching the confidences of the hundreds of millions of users who have profiles on the ever-popular Social Networking site. The Wall Street Journal reported yesterday that their own investigations into Facebook uncovered that many of the more popular third party applications… Show more

You’ve seen it all over the place… Privacy Concerns, Security Issues, Identity Stolen, Dangers of Social Networking, Social Media Threats, Personal Information Sold. All too often Facebook is the culprit; notorious for breaching the confidences of the hundreds of millions of users who have profiles on the ever-popular Social Networking site. The Wall Street Journal reported yesterday that their own investigations into Facebook uncovered that many of the more popular third party applications being used on Facebook have been providing access of personal information to dozens of advertising companies. Show less

Those of you who follow IPWatchdog.com and have read my articles, know that my favorite topics to write about are Brand Building, Marketing Strategies, Having a Web Presence and Social Networking. Recently I had the distinct pleasure of speaking at the APLF Annual Meeting in Chicago as an expert on Social Media. Topics on day two of the event included Round Tables on Law Firm Operations Basics and Standing Out From the Ordinary, as well as Value Matrix for IP Work and the Implications of… Show more

Those of you who follow IPWatchdog.com and have read my articles, know that my favorite topics to write about are Brand Building, Marketing Strategies, Having a Web Presence and Social Networking. Recently I had the distinct pleasure of speaking at the APLF Annual Meeting in Chicago as an expert on Social Media. Topics on day two of the event included Round Tables on Law Firm Operations Basics and Standing Out From the Ordinary, as well as Value Matrix for IP Work and the Implications of Patent Reform and ended with Social Networking for the IP Lawyer; For Profit or Pleasure? So how can attorneys use Social Media to their benefits? Following are ways in which attorneys and other professionals can show expertise, build credibility and ultimately enhance their overall business strategies using Social Media. Show less

In today’s technologically advanced world, all businesses should have an Internet presence. But it’s quite daunting really to see how many businesses still do not see the benefits of having and maintaining a current website. Think about this; when you want to learn about a company what is the first thing you do? Most people go to the Internet open up a search engine and type in the name of the company or industry. When people look for a company or business online, they will usually search… Show more

In today’s technologically advanced world, all businesses should have an Internet presence. But it’s quite daunting really to see how many businesses still do not see the benefits of having and maintaining a current website. Think about this; when you want to learn about a company what is the first thing you do? Most people go to the Internet open up a search engine and type in the name of the company or industry. When people look for a company or business online, they will usually search Google or Bing often returning pages and pages of company websites on the topic that was searched. Do you ever go to the second or third pages of the list? How about the fourth, fifth or sixth page or beyond? Seldom, right? Did you know that the more popular your site is, the more popular it will become? The trick is getting people to find you amidst the hundreds of other similar websites on the net. So how do you increase your search engine ranking to stand out?
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Social Networking has become the most widely accepted form of networking in recent years throughout all different industries and interest groups. The reason for this is that although Social Networking can be done in some forms in person, people increasingly turn to the Internet to meet many millions of other like-minded individuals that have also turned to the Internet to exchange first-hand experience, knowledge and expertise. Social networking websites function like a community, only… Show more

Social Networking has become the most widely accepted form of networking in recent years throughout all different industries and interest groups. The reason for this is that although Social Networking can be done in some forms in person, people increasingly turn to the Internet to meet many millions of other like-minded individuals that have also turned to the Internet to exchange first-hand experience, knowledge and expertise. Social networking websites function like a community, only online. Once you find the Social Networking site you wish to use, you can often find community members that share common interests in hobbies, industry or politics. These types of common interests often make for great icebreakers in making connections. Show less

What do you think of when you hear the term “expert?” What makes one an expert in your mind? How does one become truly recognized as an expert in their field? It is not easy to be considered an Expert, otherwise we’d all be experts. However with time, practice and persistence, one can grow into a truly recognized expert within their field. Keep in mind that you do not need to know more than everyone else to be considered an expert. You just need to know more than or at least be able to… Show more

What do you think of when you hear the term “expert?” What makes one an expert in your mind? How does one become truly recognized as an expert in their field? It is not easy to be considered an Expert, otherwise we’d all be experts. However with time, practice and persistence, one can grow into a truly recognized expert within their field. Keep in mind that you do not need to know more than everyone else to be considered an expert. You just need to know more than or at least be able to educate those within your target audience. So how does one accomplish this? Perhaps most prominently is one’s ability to be regularly visible within their field while sharing their knowledge with others. Following are 6 steps you can partake in to help increase your visibility and grow your status to “Expert” within your field. Show less

“Good Morning. But I digress” Does that ring any bells? Those of you who follow me know that I enjoy writing about fun television advertising campaigns. My favorite has always been the Mac Vs. PC commercials, which seem to have vanished with the introduction of Windows 7. But yesterday my husband, the IPWatchdog, Gene Quinn and I were chatting about business via instant messenger as we so often do throughout the day. We were discussing the suggestion of a potential client that we… Show more

“Good Morning. But I digress” Does that ring any bells? Those of you who follow me know that I enjoy writing about fun television advertising campaigns. My favorite has always been the Mac Vs. PC commercials, which seem to have vanished with the introduction of Windows 7. But yesterday my husband, the IPWatchdog, Gene Quinn and I were chatting about business via instant messenger as we so often do throughout the day. We were discussing the suggestion of a potential client that we undertake a project for a reduced fee, to which he responded in type with “WOW… THATS A LOW PRICE!” Show less

In Social Networking for Business Part III: LinkedIn Chapter 1, I gave you the first 7 steps to using LinkedIn as a tool for growing your business. The first 7 steps focused on getting your LinkedIn account set up and making connections. Now that you have set up your LinkedIn profile, it is time to start using the tool available to you through this social network. In this Chapter I will cover steps 8-15 on how to continue to use LinkedIn to not only grow your business but to Start Building… Show more

In Social Networking for Business Part III: LinkedIn Chapter 1, I gave you the first 7 steps to using LinkedIn as a tool for growing your business. The first 7 steps focused on getting your LinkedIn account set up and making connections. Now that you have set up your LinkedIn profile, it is time to start using the tool available to you through this social network. In this Chapter I will cover steps 8-15 on how to continue to use LinkedIn to not only grow your business but to Start Building Your Brand. Show less

If you have gone to Google today, you have probably noticed that Google’s newest Doodle is a Pacman board. Doodles are known as the decorative changes that are made to the Google logo to celebrate holidays, anniversaries, and the lives of famous artists and scientists. May 22 marks the 30th anniversary of the game we all loved and played as kids, and to commemorate Pacman’s anniversary Google has created this one-of-a-kind Pacman Google Doodle. This doodle is unlike any other Google doodle… Show more

If you have gone to Google today, you have probably noticed that Google’s newest Doodle is a Pacman board. Doodles are known as the decorative changes that are made to the Google logo to celebrate holidays, anniversaries, and the lives of famous artists and scientists. May 22 marks the 30th anniversary of the game we all loved and played as kids, and to commemorate Pacman’s anniversary Google has created this one-of-a-kind Pacman Google Doodle. This doodle is unlike any other Google doodle that has come before it because the Google Pacman logo is actually Google’s very first interactive doodle in the form of a Pacman game you can actually play. Show less

I am currently working on a series of articles about the Importance of Using Social Networking for Business. And I know I wrote that you should consider using Facebook as one means of Social Media, but recent events have me wondering and questioning my own advice. Don’t get me wrong; I think Facebook is a great tool for making connections and a lot of fun for personal use, and can still be useful to business, but is it useful enough to ignore privacy concerns? I report, you decide…

In the previous articles, I discussed the importance of Social Networking to Small Businesses. Each and every day IPWatchdog.com generates many page views as a result of our social networking through Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and others as well as our own IPWatchdog Social Network. We can state with certainty that as traffic to our site increases so do the number of inquiries for our services. Increased traffic and increased sales DO go hand in hand. Increased visibility for little to no… Show more

In the previous articles, I discussed the importance of Social Networking to Small Businesses. Each and every day IPWatchdog.com generates many page views as a result of our social networking through Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and others as well as our own IPWatchdog Social Network. We can state with certainty that as traffic to our site increases so do the number of inquiries for our services. Increased traffic and increased sales DO go hand in hand. Increased visibility for little to no cost is an invaluable tool for any businesses, let alone small business, start up companies and entrepreneurs alike. In this series I have covered Facebook as Part 1 and Twitter as Part 2. Now I will focus on LinkedIn. Because there is so much information to share on LinkedIn, I have decided to split this into multiple posts I will call Chapters. In this first Chapter, I will give you the first 7 steps that you can use to get started and the most out of your LinkedIn account and how you can use this tool to help build your brand and grow your business. Show less

In Part one of this series, The Importance of Using Social Networking for Business; Part 1, I discussed the Social Networking site Facebook. Although it is considered a ‘Play” site, most notable for games such as Farmville (which is my favorite) and Mafia Wars, it is also one that can be utilized by your business to reach out to new potential customers. There are some however that do not wish to forego their personal Facebook pages for business so they look must seek out other alternatives… Show more

In Part one of this series, The Importance of Using Social Networking for Business; Part 1, I discussed the Social Networking site Facebook. Although it is considered a ‘Play” site, most notable for games such as Farmville (which is my favorite) and Mafia Wars, it is also one that can be utilized by your business to reach out to new potential customers. There are some however that do not wish to forego their personal Facebook pages for business so they look must seek out other alternatives for social networking. One alternative that has taken America by storm and is widely used by politicians, most media outlets, authors and musicians alike is Twitter. And Twitter is not just for fun, but it is an important business tool as well. Twitter reports that Dell Outlet has generated more than $3 million in revenues as a result of Twitter posts. While you might not be as big as Dell, if you have a product you can’t ignore free resources such as Twitter. Show less

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn. These are a few of the more popular Social Networking sites that you have probably already heard of and may already be using. But Social Networking platforms such as these are not just for playing online social games, taking quizzes, sending virtual gifts or reconnecting with friends and family. In fact Social Networking is another way to advertise yourself and your business for free or at a very low cost. In my last article The Importance of Having a Web… Show more

Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn. These are a few of the more popular Social Networking sites that you have probably already heard of and may already be using. But Social Networking platforms such as these are not just for playing online social games, taking quizzes, sending virtual gifts or reconnecting with friends and family. In fact Social Networking is another way to advertise yourself and your business for free or at a very low cost. In my last article The Importance of Having a Web Presence I talked about utilizing the Internet via a website of your own, in order to expand your reach, while incurring very little additional overhead costs. Social Networking is a very inexpensive means for advertising what your business is and does and what services and products you offer. In this article, Part I of a Social Networking series, we take an in-depth look at Facebook. Show less

Apple’s Mac Vs PC ad campaign has been on the airwaves since May of 2006 and features John Hodgeman of the Daily Show as “PC” and Justin Long from Dodge ball and Herbie Fully Loaded as “Mac.” By now most of you have probably seen the newest of the Mac Vs PC ads. You know the ones where Mac looks at PC with that smile and you know he’s thinking, “I can’t believe how clueless this guy is!” I realize that doesn’t narrow it down much at all, but the one I am thinking about in particular is the most… Show more

Apple’s Mac Vs PC ad campaign has been on the airwaves since May of 2006 and features John Hodgeman of the Daily Show as “PC” and Justin Long from Dodge ball and Herbie Fully Loaded as “Mac.” By now most of you have probably seen the newest of the Mac Vs PC ads. You know the ones where Mac looks at PC with that smile and you know he’s thinking, “I can’t believe how clueless this guy is!” I realize that doesn’t narrow it down much at all, but the one I am thinking about in particular is the most current of these ads, titled “Broken promises” (see below) where they depict Microsoft as a company that cannot be trusted to keep their “Promises” of a better product without the issues that each previous version has had. In this rather humorous ad, PC starts by saying “Hey Mac did you hear the good news, Window’s 7 is out and it’s not gonna have any of the problems that windows XP had.” To which Mac respond “I feel like I’ve heard this before PC.” Show less

A few weeks ago I got an email from a colleague stating that he believed his Twitter account had been hacked into because of a suspicious direct message that was sent to all of his followers, me included. Since then I’ve gotten other random direct messages. But in the last two days both the IPWatchdog and IPWatchdog_too Twitter accounts were hacked into as well. I assure you that we are not sending direct messages from our Twitter accounts. Nevertheless, I decided to search “Twitter accounts… Show more

A few weeks ago I got an email from a colleague stating that he believed his Twitter account had been hacked into because of a suspicious direct message that was sent to all of his followers, me included. Since then I’ve gotten other random direct messages. But in the last two days both the IPWatchdog and IPWatchdog_too Twitter accounts were hacked into as well. I assure you that we are not sending direct messages from our Twitter accounts. Nevertheless, I decided to search “Twitter accounts hacked” and there is a Plethora of Twitter Users who have tweeted their warnings to others. Show less

Have you seen the latest Mac VS PC Commercials yet? If you haven’t, you can go to YouTube or watch them directly on the Apple website. In the last few weeks Apple has created several new campaign ads that mock Microsoft’s choice to spend in excess of $300 million (rumored to be up to $500 Million) on an advertising campaign for its Vista operating system rather than to spend that money to fix the issues that PC users have faced with the program. This type of comparative advertising is legal… Show more

Have you seen the latest Mac VS PC Commercials yet? If you haven’t, you can go to YouTube or watch them directly on the Apple website. In the last few weeks Apple has created several new campaign ads that mock Microsoft’s choice to spend in excess of $300 million (rumored to be up to $500 Million) on an advertising campaign for its Vista operating system rather than to spend that money to fix the issues that PC users have faced with the program. This type of comparative advertising is legal, and you see it all the time. Show less