Social Media Week Through The Eyes Of An Anti-Socialite

Imagine you’ve just found out about this new job that’s hiring. The pay is low at first, but if you got skills, then you could reap huge rewards. There are plenty of openings, but only a few are available for upper management. Imagine how many folks would apply? Now imagine if the job that was hiring was the Internet. Would you get hired?

On Monday, I attended “The New Age of Social Media” — one of the beginning events for Social Media Week here in New York City. Hosted by Anthony Quinones (Q Ball Media) — author Eric Hamilton (Social Media Branding in the Age of Obama), Ellie Nieves (Leadership Strategies For Women), Orietta E. Ramirez (HR Blogger), and Mike Street (Zezza Network) were panelists. The Internet is the new “trending topic” and with unemployment, changes within the job market, and an optimism within the entrepreneurship culture, the growth in the digital industry is apparent.

At the SLC Center, I witnessed folks of all ages furiously jotting down notes, some piqued with curiosity about this thing called the World Wide Web, others assured in their place within the online landscape. Myself — an avid web fiend — sat back and let the knowledge flow without any interruption. Writing this piece on the way home from the event, I came to some interesting conclusions.

The line between beginner and expert is expansive:

While there were some on the panel who’s resume reflected years of a life spent online, there were others who couldn’t quite grasp the language. Facebook, Twitter, and other avenues of “getting your voice heard” were brought up, but I noticed that the audience was still scratching their head. My personal feeling about the event aside, others seemed displeased as they hoped that the panel would address specific needs like analytics, marketing, promotion, and strategies on how to be successful with their endeavors.

The market is ripe with opportunity:

That was the theme of the night… but it wasn’t one missed by those who were in attendance. Folks came all the way from Long Island, Connecticut, and New Jersey to see what they could learn. A good majority of the people I spoke to after the event ended were those who came from working a regular 9-to-5, but now want to see what they can do being their own boss. We here at Black Web 2.0 wish you all nothing but good luck and success.

Lastly, it’s safe to say that a new day has begun to dawn:

Folks are somewhat unsure of the Internet gamble. Many know that most jobs are outfitting themselves to be prepared for the 22nd Century and they too want to be ready. All came looking for answers and when it was time for the audience to ask the panel some questions, it became more of a testimonial than students looking for the teachers to help solve issues. One woman who worked for Hallmark wanted to know how she could compete in a changing industry that favored eCards over real ones. Another was a student, already hip to most of the social media tools to compete, but wanted to know how to crack the glass ceiling and gain entry into the industry. Both received valid answers to their questions (too in-depth for this already lengthy piece) — but in the end it all comes down to wanting to do the work.

Summary:

“The New Age of Social Media” is a very appropriate title, but the event itself was lukewarm. It would’ve benefited both newcomers to the online world and veterans alike if the paneled discussion was more of a networking event. The MVP of the night was Eric Hamilton (Social Media Branding in the Age of Obama) — who’s plain speak and topics gave attendees some very healthy food for thought. For those who may have left the event feeling like they were stuck in class, the ones who stayed the course came away with something that will help them figure out this World Wide Web of Internet confusion.

Today (Feb. 2nd), I’ll be attending ‘Social Divas Celebrates Digital Divas’ at The Hotel on Rivington. If you’re going to be there as well, don’t be scared to say hello! I’ll be the one wearing the funny hat.

About the Author
Kevin L. Clark, aka Clark Kent, aka Batman, may go by a few well known monikers, but his writing is in a class of its own. Having penned features for XXL, KING, VIBE and GIANT Magazine, Clark Kent built his name up from the ground-up, beginning with HipHopDX.com. Now, the founder of his own site - Don't Lose Your Day Job [dot com] - Clark Kent joins Black Web 2.0 to push the absurd to the forefront and keep a smile on your face.
See all posts by Clark Kent.