So, I’m going to take a stab at my giving the proper “thank you” to those on Twitter that have inspired, encouraged and given to me this year. So, in no particular order, thank you:
@SashaHalima – You and I have had great conversations. You were one of the first people that I feel I got to know on a personal level. I feel like online or offline, we have a great connection. We’re like Batman and Robin. I don’t know who’s who, but we’re Batman and Robin! Thank you for listening, thank you for sharing, thank you for being you. I hope one day we do get to meet IRL. Here’s to ending 2009 on a positive note (hint: you getting that gig) and continuing our friendship into 2010.
@ColbyWG – I’m not grouping you into the Minnesota folks (you’ll see below) because you’re kind of a hybrid. Thank you for being a bright and passionate youngster. I wish I had been more like you when I was younger. You’ve got drive, you’ve got a great personality, you strive to turn average into superior. You have a bright future and I look forward to watching your continued growth.
@ChuckHemann & @SonnyGill – The Cleveland Guys. It’s been a blast talking sports (Go Johnny Flynn!) and giving each other grief. However, as many playful jabs we’ve taken, I’ve learned a lot from the both of you. Chuck, you’re a brain when it comes to social media and IR. I could sit and listen to you talk social and never get bored or feel like I’m hearing something I’ve heard before. Sonny, you build communities. I enjoy hearing you talk strategy and how to build that “bigger picture” idea. Thank you both. Maybe one day (give me 3-4 years) we’ll have a NBA Finals tweetup!
@RyanKnapp – It started with an online discussion in #journchat, me realizing you did PR in the sporting industry, and building a relationship through offline discussions. How you do everything you do each day is beyond me. You’ve taught me that despite your background, follow your passion. I’m excited to watch the growth of your soccer club, and maybe a SXSW meeting.
@AdamKmiec - I’m glad we got the chance to have a few beers and chat. Honestly, this isn’t meant to kiss any ass or anything, but I’ve learned the most about the digital space from you. The knowledge and understanding you have is amazing. I enjoy the fact that you speak your mind, regardless of who or what the topic is, and 99% of the time, you’re spot on. I look forward to hanging out more in 2010 and continuing our conversations online.
My Minnesota Folks:
@lulugrimm – Thank you for being…well, you. I don’t know if I’ve ever met anyone more passionate and “do good” as you. You’re sincere, you’re truly passionate about the social space and you’re drive to be a better human being is inspiring. Thank you for working with me in PRSA and I’m exciting to continue our work together, and most importantly, continuing to build on what we’ve started. Here’s to more blunt and honest conversations!
@DFolkens @JasonSprenger @RyanMathre @Asdeos @tsauce @keithprivette – Most of us have gotten together for some occassion – Keith, you and I need to, and I’m glad to have such a solid group of folks locally. Thank you for the beer, the Minnesota homer talk and the learning.
My Mentors:
@ArikHanson – The grand daddy of them all. It started out by me reaching out to you to answer a question for a PRSA article I was writing and you asking if I was on Twitter. Thank you for being open, honest, and an educator. Most of all, thank you for doing this in the “Arik Hanson” manner – sincere, and simply out to help folks and build relationships. I can’t stress how much I’ve learned from you, so thank you. I appreciate all the times you’ve given me advice – personal and professional. Best of luck with the continued growth of your business and I look forward to continuing the friendship we’ve created. Thank you.
@BrantSkogrand - Thank you for connecting with me through PRSA’s mentor program. None of this would have been possible had you not encouraged me to start blogging and get involved with the Minnesota PRSA chapter. I’ve enjoyed our conversations and the knowledge and advice you’ve given me. Thank you for reaching out and being a great mentor. Thank you.
@CubanaLAF – Passionate, feisty, puffy hair. Girl, I am truly blessed to have formed the relationship I have with you. You’re a prefect role model for anyone in the PR and communications field. Thank you for speaking your mind, challenging me to be a better professional and being so passionate. You’re a great advocate for the PR industry and you’re potential and future in this space is endless. Thank you for being such a great sport when we talk Vikings-Packers – a quick-witted and sassy lady you are. Continue to speak for what you believe in, continue being the advocate you are, continue to be Lauren Fernandez.
There are countless others out there that I could thank, but you’d probably get sick of reading. @DavidSpinks @MikeSchaffer @ResearchGoddess @MNHeadHunter @KristinGast @DFerrari @GoKTGo @LindsTR – you’ve all inspired and helped me grow. Everyone else…thanks!
