Jon Bishop
Brazen careerist
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Rebecca Thorman
I want to learn PHP, AJAX and how to build a CMS. How do I go about it? While I am familiar with code from my blog, I would like links to straight-up beginner resources. How do I set up a coding environment on my computer? What are the best tutorials and resources or even classes available on the web? Thanks in advance...
67 weeks ago from PHP, Web Development, Drupal, Joomla! and User Experience3 more
Timothy Johnson III recommended this
Rebecca Thorman:
@ Ted - Right now, I am making my way through the Head First book for PHP and MySql (think I'm on Chapter 5). I am using XAMPP as well, but only ...More@ Ted - Right now, I am making my way through the Head First book for PHP and MySql (think I'm on Chapter 5). I am using XAMPP as well, but only because the group recommended it and it ended up being easier than what the book suggested. I think the book is great and is very easy and clear - plus, there are lots of great online resources that align with each chapter. For me, I like being able to mark up the book as well. Hope that helps! After the Head First book, I also have a book called PHP and MySql for Web Devlelopment which is part of the Web Developers series. It looks pretty good, but certainly more advanced than the Head First book I'm doing now.
64 weeks ago
64 weeks ago
Ben Weller:
Rebecca,
I know I'm digging up an old thread here, but how has the experience of learning PHP & MySQL been treating you?
Once you've gotten ...MoreRebecca,
I know I'm digging up an old thread here, but how has the experience of learning PHP & MySQL been treating you?
Once you've gotten some experience with the basics, I'd recommend using that experience in a true LAMP stack.
There are 2 easy (easier...) ways to move in that direction:
- virtualize a LAMP server locally (using VirtualBox, Parallels, etc.), or
- set up a virtualized server through RackSpace, AWS, or similar.
If you're planning to stick with it, it is important to break away from the Windows-based stack. Linux-based stacks tend to be more performant and robust, and don't suffer with the issues inherent in the Windows-targeted implementation of PHP. It is very likely that any professional opportunities that you'll encounter will require LAMP experience over X/WAMP experience.
25 weeks ago
I know I'm digging up an old thread here, but how has the experience of learning PHP & MySQL been treating you?
Once you've gotten ...MoreRebecca,
I know I'm digging up an old thread here, but how has the experience of learning PHP & MySQL been treating you?
Once you've gotten some experience with the basics, I'd recommend using that experience in a true LAMP stack.
There are 2 easy (easier...) ways to move in that direction:
- virtualize a LAMP server locally (using VirtualBox, Parallels, etc.), or
- set up a virtualized server through RackSpace, AWS, or similar.
If you're planning to stick with it, it is important to break away from the Windows-based stack. Linux-based stacks tend to be more performant and robust, and don't suffer with the issues inherent in the Windows-targeted implementation of PHP. It is very likely that any professional opportunities that you'll encounter will require LAMP experience over X/WAMP experience.
25 weeks ago
TOP IDEA:
Jon Bishop
I found a very bad call to action plugin on WordPress so I decided to create my own that made use of WordPress 3.0 custom post types and sidebar widgets.
http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/call-to-action/
It is very much still in beta but I am using it on my site with great success. The plugin displays a Call to Action in your sidebar based on the current category. Just assign each Call to Action with a few categories and you are good to go.
Let me know how I can make this better.
75 weeks ago from Wordpress Bloggers and Social Media Marketers
Jon Bishop:
Here is another Call to Action plugin I've been working on. This one is a more All-In-One plugin for businesses. I am developing on behalf of ...MoreHere is another Call to Action plugin I've been working on. This one is a more All-In-One plugin for businesses. I am developing on behalf of HubSpot so HubSpot customers can input their Portal ID and App Domain to track analytics.
Just something worth keeping and eye on.
72 weeks ago
Just something worth keeping and eye on.
72 weeks ago
TOP IDEA:
Kristen Creager
If not now, when?
Sadya Siddiqui, Jay Marthis and Meredith Ryan recommended this
Dwayne Waite Jr:
Kathryn:
Forgive me if I sounded like I encouraged reckless behavior, that's not the intent. I'm all for sound planning, but I do recognize a ...MoreKathryn:
Forgive me if I sounded like I encouraged reckless behavior, that's not the intent. I'm all for sound planning, but I do recognize a fear in my generation that they are too worried in being sound than taking their future into their own hands.
I'm all for living and doing what you want. Planning paralysis and the fear of failure is far too rampant in young professionals. I'm not saying to spend carelessly, but I would encourage young professionals to go after dreams rather than sitting at home, counting dollars and living unhappily...though sound.
43 weeks ago
Forgive me if I sounded like I encouraged reckless behavior, that's not the intent. I'm all for sound planning, but I do recognize a ...MoreKathryn:
Forgive me if I sounded like I encouraged reckless behavior, that's not the intent. I'm all for sound planning, but I do recognize a fear in my generation that they are too worried in being sound than taking their future into their own hands.
I'm all for living and doing what you want. Planning paralysis and the fear of failure is far too rampant in young professionals. I'm not saying to spend carelessly, but I would encourage young professionals to go after dreams rather than sitting at home, counting dollars and living unhappily...though sound.
43 weeks ago
Kathryn Smith:
In that case we're definitely in agreement. Think outside the box and find a way to make it happen. :)
43 weeks ago
43 weeks ago
Jon Bishop
Hey Boston Brazens! Check out Boston WordCamp if you haven't yet. http://2011.boston.wordcamp.org
47 weeks ago from Boston
Jon Bishop
Hey brazen peeps. Here's a post with some info on using shortcodes in WordPress to help format your content. http://bit.ly/mnLRH7
Do you use shortcodes to format your content? Which themes do you think have the best shortcodes?
Rebecca Thorman
I'm an inbox zero fan (clearing your inbox to zero every day), but found that I was also obsessively checking and responding to emails. Now, in addition to inbox zero, I've only been checking my email and Google Reader three times a day (7:30 am-9:30 am, 1-1:30 pm, 5-5:30pm) and literally closing those browser tabs when it's not one of those three times. I've found that creating this rule has dramatically increased my productivity and focus. Does anyone else do anything similar?
65 weeks ago from Perfectionist Rehab, Social Media, Work/Life Blur and Productivity & Time-Management2 more
Ryan Healy, Shun Jackson and Megan recommended this
Eboni Dunbar:
That makes a ton of sense. I definitely over check my email. Unfortunately, nobody is emailing me that often! I'll have to try and do the specific ...MoreThat makes a ton of sense. I definitely over check my email. Unfortunately, nobody is emailing me that often! I'll have to try and do the specific times thing. It will make my partner happy too :)
47 weeks ago
47 weeks ago
Timothy Johnson III:
Hi Rebecca. One thing I've done is unsubscribe from ANY email newsletter that hits my Inbox.
I've unsubscribed from email alerts from Brazen, ...MoreHi Rebecca. One thing I've done is unsubscribe from ANY email newsletter that hits my Inbox.
I've unsubscribed from email alerts from Brazen, Facebook, Twitter, so I can view those messages and interact when I'm actually using those sites.
As for Google Reader, I check it maybe ONCE or TWICE a week, at most. That way, I can catch up and read interesting posts all at one shot.
Lastly, I've disabled email notifications on my phone, so I have to open the relevant applications.
It seems to be working!
47 weeks ago
I've unsubscribed from email alerts from Brazen, ...MoreHi Rebecca. One thing I've done is unsubscribe from ANY email newsletter that hits my Inbox.
I've unsubscribed from email alerts from Brazen, Facebook, Twitter, so I can view those messages and interact when I'm actually using those sites.
As for Google Reader, I check it maybe ONCE or TWICE a week, at most. That way, I can catch up and read interesting posts all at one shot.
Lastly, I've disabled email notifications on my phone, so I have to open the relevant applications.
It seems to be working!
47 weeks ago
Lexie
I am 19 and go to a small liberal arts school outside of Chicago. I take 4 hard classes, give tours, do mocktrial and manage the public relations, am president of two clubs, am secretary and treasurer of habit for humanity, am public relations for another club, news editor of the newspaper and a couple more things.I am repeatedly told by adults and friends that I need to slow down, de stress and get some rest.I take caffeiene pills to aid my lack of sleep so I have time to do everything perfect.
Rebecca Thorman recommended this
Kylie Schleicher:
I completely understand, I just recently graduated from Gettysburg College, a small liberal arts school. I had a very stressful major and my 4 ...MoreI completely understand, I just recently graduated from Gettysburg College, a small liberal arts school. I had a very stressful major and my 4 years were filled with many late nights especially with all of my extra activities. My final year at Gettysburg slowed down, but I found myself bored and unsure what to do with my free time. I do better under stress and when I have very little time. Is that how you feel?
I would suggest to try not to use the caffeine, that can lead to huge headaches later ( i used to be a coffee addict). Try some yoga or set aside some tv time or do lunches and dinners with friends where you can relax, laugh and blow off a little steam.
50 weeks ago
I would suggest to try not to use the caffeine, that can lead to huge headaches later ( i used to be a coffee addict). Try some yoga or set aside some tv time or do lunches and dinners with friends where you can relax, laugh and blow off a little steam.
50 weeks ago
Curtis Johnson:
Keep it in balance. i have always liked the "marathon" runner's strategy. There are times to do what has to be done and there are times to be ...MoreKeep it in balance. i have always liked the "marathon" runner's strategy. There are times to do what has to be done and there are times to be reasonable. You have to set a reasonable pace for the long haul- don't become a "flash in the pan". The day will come when the sleep deprivation will catch up and then you find you can't do anything. Go hard, go fast but go smart.
50 weeks ago
50 weeks ago
William Bryan
How do handle with not achieving a long-term goal? I had a long term goal of getting into graduate school at Truman State University. I met all the short term goals I set up for myself, but in the end I was not accepted. How do you handle with defeat? What are some steps to keep your positive attitude? I try my best to stay positive by reading motivational blogs or stories, but I still get down on myself and crawl into a comfort zone. What do you do to keep yourself aggressive and movitivated?
53 weeks ago from Business Development, Entry-Level Young Professionals, GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals, Career Rocketeer and The Career Hot Seat!3 more
Sadya Siddiqui recommended this
Bryson Saez:
@Erin, great link. @William, like the link points out, I think the best way to look at this sort of thing is through a lens of detached feedback. ...More@Erin, great link. @William, like the link points out, I think the best way to look at this sort of thing is through a lens of detached feedback. Instead of 'I failed,' look at is as an experiment that had a certain result, go back to the drawing board and try a different, best idea you can now come up with tactic with the information you now have.
52 weeks ago
52 weeks ago
William Bryan:
@ Erin, I agree with Bryson that was an awesome link! Thanks for everyone's support. I really wanted to know have the brillant minds of Brazen ...More@ Erin, I agree with Bryson that was an awesome link! Thanks for everyone's support. I really wanted to know have the brillant minds of Brazen really deal with a set back. I got a lot of helpful advice. Thanks again guys!
51 weeks ago
51 weeks ago
Jon Bishop
Do you use calls to action on your website? What do you use them for, how do you track them and how easy can you optimize them?
52 weeks ago from Web Development, Wordpress Bloggers and Beantown Bloggers1 more
Sadya Siddiqui, Mehul Kar and Rebecca Thorman recommended this
Deenice, The Digital Dynamo:
A call to action for me means motivating the reader to make some sort of action because of what they either: Read, Need or Achieve for themselves ...MoreA call to action for me means motivating the reader to make some sort of action because of what they either: Read, Need or Achieve for themselves - So if I am trying to draw ppl to join a project or outreach, I have a free ebook, or video or help guide that fits the subject I am sharing.
51 weeks ago
51 weeks ago
Megan Atkinson
I can write until my fingers fall off. I've no shortage of words... until it comes to blog headlines/titles! Does anyone have good tips or resources for writing dynamic, eye-catching titles for blog posts?
52 weeks ago from Blogging Ideas and Wordpress Bloggers
Rebecca Thorman, Brett Kunsch and Noel Rozny recommended this
Brett Kunsch:
Haha...yeah, I'm pretty much their evangelist. I have much to learn myself though! Writing compelling content *consistently* has its difficulties.
52 weeks ago
52 weeks ago
Kate Davids:
I like headlines that challenge me or are slightly weird, personally. I have gotten some response when I use the word "You" in a headline, or ...MoreI like headlines that challenge me or are slightly weird, personally. I have gotten some response when I use the word "You" in a headline, or pretty much anything. People like to read about themselves. :-)
51 weeks ago
51 weeks ago
La Donna Lokey
Top 15 Social Networking Sites (by traffic) http://bit.ly/jRlPNK How many are you a member of?
52 weeks ago from Citi, Personal Branding, Ask A Coach and Brazen Careerist's Top 50 Gen-Y Companies2 more
Jon Bishop:
Found a map, not the map. Still thought I would share: MoreFound a map, not the map. Still thought I would share: http://thenorar.com/2010/12/12/world-map-of-social-media-shows-facebook-...
52 weeks ago
52 weeks ago
La Donna Lokey:
@William I think it depends on your own ability to engage and your desire to be accessible. I don't think there's a set number, but in terms of ...More@William I think it depends on your own ability to engage and your desire to be accessible. I don't think there's a set number, but in terms of value, I definitely think Twitter, FB, LinkedIn, and Brazen all have their own attraction and charm. The rest are optional, IMHO. :)
52 weeks ago
52 weeks ago
Raquel Elle Bell
I am looking for NEGATIVE feedback - we just launched our new Web site that has been at the center of my universe for the last eight months. I'd like your feedback because it's really important for me to know the good the bad and the ugly. http://www.23-degrees.com
Raquel Elle Bell:
@Cheryl - We are NOT elegant, and we are not boring, or vanilla. We don't use templates and everything we do including our Web site, unlike most, ...More@Cheryl - We are NOT elegant, and we are not boring, or vanilla. We don't use templates and everything we do including our Web site, unlike most, is one of a kind. It represents our brand and our energy.... Which we have a lot of. In regards to WIIFM... Our target market is other companies like ours who speak our language. Companies who are looking for a strategy and not just a canned ham graphic design.
@Jon - We've already graduated from WebDev101..There are many SEO techniques that are irrelevant and archaic
@John - I like your site
@Benny - Great writing - Good headlines I'll be sure to follow your thoughts
@Kenny - Thanks
@Everyone Else - The design represents our personal culture and brand. As far as our target market. We make small companies look big and help big companies stay agile and relevant We provide Interactive Strategy, Branding, Technology, Interactive Marketing and Measurement. We create custom Web modules "apps" and have several full business solutions.. This is all in our solutions drop down.. If you know what I do now It's pretty straight forward... And it's all on the site front and center. - Peace-- Raquel Out.
52 weeks ago
@Jon - We've already graduated from WebDev101..There are many SEO techniques that are irrelevant and archaic
@John - I like your site
@Benny - Great writing - Good headlines I'll be sure to follow your thoughts
@Kenny - Thanks
@Everyone Else - The design represents our personal culture and brand. As far as our target market. We make small companies look big and help big companies stay agile and relevant We provide Interactive Strategy, Branding, Technology, Interactive Marketing and Measurement. We create custom Web modules "apps" and have several full business solutions.. This is all in our solutions drop down.. If you know what I do now It's pretty straight forward... And it's all on the site front and center. - Peace-- Raquel Out.
52 weeks ago
Cheryl Roshak:
Well, good luck to you! As long as you know what you do, I'm sure your clients do too! :) Peace!
52 weeks ago
52 weeks ago
Mehul Kar
ATTN developers: Need help. I want to make a website that users can submit quotes to in the format of "You know you are a ____ when _____". I need these quotes to be shareable (right after submission as well as by future readers). Each quote must also have a permalink. What is the easiest way to do this??
Jon Bishop:
@Mehul Rebecca's right, WordPress can be kind of a hack if you don't know what's going on. Only good thing about it is there are a lot of ...More@Mehul Rebecca's right, WordPress can be kind of a hack if you don't know what's going on. Only good thing about it is there are a lot of developers out there who do know how to hack it. You have a better chance at finding someone who can help you for a decent price than if you were looking for someone to hack a joomla or drupal site.
@Rebecca I remember you were learning a little PHP awhile back. How's that going?
52 weeks ago
@Rebecca I remember you were learning a little PHP awhile back. How's that going?
52 weeks ago
Rebecca Thorman:
@ Jon - I am still learning! I really love learning code; my next step will be to start building some of my small ideas. I'm interested to see ...More@ Jon - I am still learning! I really love learning code; my next step will be to start building some of my small ideas. I'm interested to see where I hit the wall in my knowledge :)
52 weeks ago
52 weeks ago
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Andrea V. Lewis
What attracted you most to working in the advertising industry?
Rebecca Thorman and Sadya Siddiqui recommended this
Kate Davids:
I love the advertising industry because it is one of the rare places where research (scientific and ethnographic) mingle to actually do something. ...MoreI love the advertising industry because it is one of the rare places where research (scientific and ethnographic) mingle to actually do something. That and it's creative. I love this culture of intelligent creativity.
52 weeks ago
52 weeks ago
Kevin Li:
@Kate that's a great point. Advertising and marketing an area where science is not as pervasive as some of the other industries. We still don't ...More@Kate that's a great point. Advertising and marketing an area where science is not as pervasive as some of the other industries. We still don't really know what motivates people to do certain things (like responding to an ad leads to more purchases) and it's an exciting place to be if you're into meshing data analytics with consumer behavior/psychology.
52 weeks ago
52 weeks ago
Jon Bishop
Here's some info about WordPress 3.2 and how it affects you. Make sure your hosts meets the new minimum requirements (PHP 5.2.4, MySQL 5.0.15). Become familiar with the new TwentyEleven theme and how it uses Post Types. Your administration panel will also change with a new look. Coolest new feature is the Full Screen Editor. Makes it easier to focus on writing content by removing ALL distractions. Give the beta a try if you cant wait: http://wordpress.org/download/nightly/
Rebecca Thorman
How do you keep your ideas organized? I use Delicious bookmarks and tag posts/conversations that interest me with "moditeposts."
Kristie Lorette:
I keep a notepad by my bed for ideas that strike in the middle of the night. I have a spreadsheet on my computer and use the notes app on my ...MoreI keep a notepad by my bed for ideas that strike in the middle of the night. I have a spreadsheet on my computer and use the notes app on my iPhone for on-the-go ideas. I consolidate everything eventually, but I wish I could use Jon's method!
52 weeks ago
52 weeks ago
Angela DuBois:
I sometimes handwrite posts. I have a non-writing day job, so a paper notebook is the only way to go. Even then, I can only do that during my ...MoreI sometimes handwrite posts. I have a non-writing day job, so a paper notebook is the only way to go. Even then, I can only do that during my lunch break and other breaks.
52 weeks ago
52 weeks ago
Kristina E. Smith
What FTP client (ex:Filezilla) do you all recommend. I've had problems with Filezilla and I'm trying to find some other options.
Erin Boykin:
I agree with Marta....I've tried a lot FTP clients but Cyberduck is the one I liked the most and use.
60 weeks ago
60 weeks ago
TOP IDEA:
Jon Bishop
I'm pursuing my first big side project and would love some Brazen peeps to be a part of it. I spend all of my time helping businesses leverage WordPress for their website. I want to take everything I've learned and share it in a weekly/bi-weekly newsletter. I've worked with companies like HubSpot, DataXu and Canon USA on WordPress. The newsletter is free and I ultimately want to make a book out of it when I finish on all things WordPress for businesses.
Please Subscribe!
http://wpbusiness.info
Jason H. Parker recommended this
Jon Bishop:
@Jana Thanks Jana. Please let me know what you think.
@Melissa Thanks, I might take you up on that. I wan't to get a few issues under my belt so ...More@Jana Thanks Jana. Please let me know what you think.
@Melissa Thanks, I might take you up on that. I wan't to get a few issues under my belt so I'll have more to write about.
Thanks again everyone.
59 weeks ago
@Melissa Thanks, I might take you up on that. I wan't to get a few issues under my belt so ...More@Jana Thanks Jana. Please let me know what you think.
@Melissa Thanks, I might take you up on that. I wan't to get a few issues under my belt so I'll have more to write about.
Thanks again everyone.
59 weeks ago
Vickie Elmer:
Subscribed. What a great idea. If you ever want to brainstorm on ideas, or ways to grow it into a book, let me know.
59 weeks ago
59 weeks ago
Jon Bishop
I attended a WordPress meetup last night where the discussion was about WordPress Frameworks. I personally prefer frameworks that provide functionality that my clients can use vs a developer. I think Hybrid does a good job of this with their page templates and ElegantThemes with their shortcodes (altho ElegantThemes isn't a framework). I collected a bunch of plugins that help with this sort of functionality for businesses. http://bit.ly/ghWZwC
Jon Bishop
I've been working with an awesome company called HubSpot on a WordPress plugin. Our goal was to allow WordPress users to take advantage of HubSpot Lead Nurturing, Website Analytics, and assorted features of the HubSpot CMS that are missing in WordPress.
Anyone can use the plugin however HubSpot customers have the added bonus of integrated analytics and dashboard navigation.
http://wordpress.org/extend/plugins/hubspot/
Let me know what you think.
Jon Bishop
My mom shared the following article with me in an email: http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/571737
Basically the article is saying Gen Y lacks professorialism out of college in the workplace. This is my response: http://www.jonbishop.com/2010/12/embracing-social-tools/
Riley Carson
Should you put a new post on your blog every day? Do you?
75 weeks ago from Blogging Ideas and Brazen Bloggers
Ruth A. Harper:
I agree with Vickie and John here. I think you should try to set a weekly, rather than a daily, goal. Consistency is key and you want to set ...MoreI agree with Vickie and John here. I think you should try to set a weekly, rather than a daily, goal. Consistency is key and you want to set something that's challenging but that you know you'll be able to keep up with. I try to post at least twice a week and then if I find something else that really interests me and I want to talk about, I'll add that as well.
75 weeks ago
75 weeks ago
Jon Bishop:
I think once a week is good for most blogs to ensure quality of content and to keep things fresh. If a site has more than one blogger than every ...MoreI think once a week is good for most blogs to ensure quality of content and to keep things fresh. If a site has more than one blogger than every day will certainly get you more readers.
I personally post once a month which has proved more than enough for my own needs. Any more and my blogging and comment moderation would overwhelm my development.
It really depends on why you are blogging.
75 weeks ago
I personally post once a month which has proved more than enough for my own needs. Any more and my blogging and comment moderation would overwhelm my development.
It really depends on why you are blogging.
75 weeks ago
TOP IDEA:
Jon Bishop
This is a video guide on how you can use the Socialize plugin for WordPress to optimize your posts to get more shares.
http://www.jonbishop.com/2010/11/optimizing-wordpress-posts-with-socialize/
TOP IDEA:
Jon Bishop
I find I use an array of sites to learn more about my competition and other sites within my niche. I finally collected all of them in one post. What sites do you use to spy on the competition?
http://www.jonbishop.com/2010/10/competitor-website-reports-and-analytics/
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