Penelope Trunk
Brazen careerist
Where ambitious young professionals connect and grow
Already a member?
Welcome to Brazen Careerist!
Penelope Trunk is using Brazen Careerist to share ideas. Join now to become a member and start networking with Penelope Trunk and other professionals just like you. Learn more.
All Activity
TOP IDEA:
Penelope Trunk
I built my career on giving counter-intuitive advice about careers based on my own non-traditional path. This post is a good example of that type of advice: http://bit.ly/8aArp
Kahlil Digitalx recommended this
TOP IDEA:
Penelope Trunk
Time Magazine contacted me to write a definitive article about Gen Y at work. I had spent so many years pitching big magazines, trying to get their attention, so it was a huge deal to me that Time came to me. http://bit.ly/132g9r
Kahlil Digitalx and Brianna Swartz recommended this
TOP IDEA:
Penelope Trunk
I wrote this blog post about transparent salaries. The story was picked up by the New York Times and then I was featured on 20/20 talking about this topic. This blog post made me realize that it's possible for bloggers to guide mainstream media instead of the other way around. http://bit.ly/WifQZ
Demetra Brown, Sadya Siddiqui, Christopher How and Kahlil Digitalx and 1 others recommended this
Edward Antrobus:
@JRandom, My mother's favorite is "If life were fair, I'd be skinny and rich."
28 weeks ago
28 weeks ago
Laura:
Put me in the ignorance is bliss column. Not only would I prefer not to disclose, but I don't want to know what my peers are making. I have my ...MorePut me in the ignorance is bliss column. Not only would I prefer not to disclose, but I don't want to know what my peers are making. I have my own financial plan and what my peers make doesn't factor in. I have one peer who constantly asks me about salary and it drives me bonkers. He's also very competitive.
28 weeks ago
28 weeks ago
Sadya Siddiqui
Friends with Money: Two friends decide to start ...well....a start-up. One says I'll put in the money , the other says I'll put in all the daily hours. They both believe this situation will work since both of them are allotting the resources that each of them has - money and time. But will this work?
I'm skeptical about this arrangement - i think the friend-with-money will demand results from the other guy & the other guy will always feel shortchanged....
81 weeks ago from GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals, Slash Jobs, Entrepreneurs, Consultants R US and Ask Penelope Trunk!3 more
Dannielle Blumenthal:
Following Penelope's line of thinking...does the $ person have more say over decision-making? Or the one who is putting in the time and effort but ...MoreFollowing Penelope's line of thinking...does the $ person have more say over decision-making? Or the one who is putting in the time and effort but whose efforts may not be as visible? History shows that unless you are directly contributing money you will not have as much say...which will lead inevitably to conflict, power struggles, etc. that can hurt the business. Need more balance here.
78 weeks ago
78 weeks ago
Sadya Siddiqui:
Thank you everyone for sharing your views on this arrangement. I think the comparison of a startup with marriage was really amusing. since i do ...MoreThank you everyone for sharing your views on this arrangement. I think the comparison of a startup with marriage was really amusing. since i do not know right now what either of two feel like so i'm just gonna take it in.
75 weeks ago
75 weeks ago
Jennifer Koren
To anyone that works from home? Are you given guidelines by your employer on what they expect from you when you work from home? I'm looking to put together policies and procedures for a company that has a remote customer service and content staff and looking for examples of what other companies do. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!
81 weeks ago from Consultants R US, Ask Penelope Trunk!, Global Careers and Business, Community Managers and Inspiring Leadership3 more
Sadya Siddiqui recommended this
Melissa Breau:
They expect us to use our own computer/internet. not a big deal since its only 1x a week. Our associate publisher works remotely from NC tho, and ...MoreThey expect us to use our own computer/internet. not a big deal since its only 1x a week. Our associate publisher works remotely from NC tho, and I'd imagine they pay her internet / phone / fax. Though I think if I submitted an expense report no one would give me any issues.
81 weeks ago
81 weeks ago
Smith+Fritzy:
Count on there being internet and power outages. For instance, when I moved into my new place, the city decided to start tearing up our road and ...MoreCount on there being internet and power outages. For instance, when I moved into my new place, the city decided to start tearing up our road and moving existing lines. I also live in the lightning capital of the world and have frequent visits by hurricanes. Things happen. My thought is supplying a back-up system for hourly distance workers wouldn't be very cost effective. I do think offering a simple incentive to the employees that if they need to be on call if needed, and make sure they know it's not going to be a frequent thing.
81 weeks ago
81 weeks ago
Presh Talwalkar
Would you give up your blog for an office job? Today I had a phone interview with a finance company and they expressed concern that I blog about money matters. They said I might have to give up the blog if it conflicts with company policy - something to do with disclosure requirements. I don't want to give up blogging since it has improved my career network and overall life satisfaction so much. I'm curious if anyone has been in this situation and what your suggestions are. Thanks!
Becky Benishek recommended this
Ryan Paugh:
Presh, it's good to see your face on Brazen! Knowing you, I'm assuming that you're going into some type of finance role. If that's the case I can ...MorePresh, it's good to see your face on Brazen! Knowing you, I'm assuming that you're going into some type of finance role. If that's the case I can see why the company is trying to say you can't blog. Forrester did this with all of their research analysts. They basically said that if they wanted to blog about their research then they have to do it through the company blogs. I'm sure they're thinking that your knowledge of finance is now part of the company. It's total BS but that's how a lot of companies are starting to think. I don't have any great advice except do some research on whats going on in other companies who are developing these types of policies.
57 weeks ago
57 weeks ago
Presh Talwalkar:
Wow, thanks all for the quick replies! @Penelope: I will find out the company policy and at least make a case that blogging about board games and ...MoreWow, thanks all for the quick replies! @Penelope: I will find out the company policy and at least make a case that blogging about board games and math is not a big deal. @Lauren: You're right they said this without reading a word of my blog. They simply freaked out about "personal blog" as if I'd be writing an expose on their company secrets. @Ryan: Yes, I need to be on Brazen more ;) Interesting to hear another company had this worry about blogs too. Good to know what the corporate side is thinking. I'm interviewing in person next week: I will see how it all goes. Thanks again!
57 weeks ago
57 weeks ago
TOP IDEA:
JenG
I recently wrote a post on my blog talking about the importance of aptitude in choosing a career (http://su.pr/2t3FK2). But what about aptitude for leadership? We often hear the phrase "leaders are made, not born," but aptitudes suggest just the opposite. If we can accept some have more innate talent for sports or music, why not leadership? And more importantly, is this egalatarian mythology hurting our organizations?
90 weeks ago from Inspiring Leadership, Creating a Life You Love, Career Rocketeer and Ask Penelope Trunk!2 more
Bryon Ownby, Sadya Siddiqui, Annabel Candy and Wanda and 1 others recommended this
Luke Lloyd:
Jen I don't think all people abused by bad leaders turn out to be good leaders, in fact i think most grow to imitate past examples of bad ...MoreJen I don't think all people abused by bad leaders turn out to be good leaders, in fact i think most grow to imitate past examples of bad leadership, unfortunately most forget what it was like to be treated that way. The rest have amazing potential to be exceptional leaders.
I personally think being a good leader is being a servant to the team whilst being a servant to the greater goal. Double the work ;) Maybe lazy people are bad leaders? haha
75 weeks ago
I personally think being a good leader is being a servant to the team whilst being a servant to the greater goal. Double the work ;) Maybe lazy people are bad leaders? haha
75 weeks ago
Mark W.:
@JRandom42 - I think you'll like this recent article - 'Under Pressure: Learning to be a Clutch Leader' - More@JRandom42 - I think you'll like this recent article - 'Under Pressure: Learning to be a Clutch Leader' - http://bit.ly/cjDveL .
There's links to the Harvard Business Review citing a new series about leadership lessons from the military.
65 weeks ago
There's links to the Harvard Business Review citing a new series about leadership lessons from the military.
65 weeks ago
Emily Moore
Do you think it's possible to go straight from graduation into a career of freelance? Do I need to get into a 9-5 profession? I'm working on establishing myself now so that I'm already comfortable and in my "career track" when I graduate next May. What are your tips and advice for going down this road?
79 weeks ago from Professional Writers and Editors, Ask Penelope Trunk!, Entrepreneur and Young Entrepreneur Community2 more
Robby Chen recommended this
Steph Auteri:
Hey there Emily. I know I'm late to the game, but I thought I'd chime in, too. You mention that you're working on establishing yourself now, so ...MoreHey there Emily. I know I'm late to the game, but I thought I'd chime in, too. You mention that you're working on establishing yourself now, so that you're ready to go by the time you graduate. I'm wondering what this entails.
The thing about freelance is that you don't have to wait for that degree. You can just dive in now, and perhaps build up a strong client base that's already there by the time you graduate. How? Start pitching stories and building up a collection of clips. Build a professional site in order to showcase these clips. Become active on social media, so that you can both promote your work and connect with others in the industry. Network like hell.
Of course, there are a few things to consider before going all or nothing:
- Do you have enough money saved up to handle monthly expenses in the event you don't reach your income goals?
- Have you budgeted for health insurance? (I can't remember when graduates go off their parents' insurance...)
- What sets you apart from other writers? Sometimes, taking on other jobs can enrich your writing, and add to your areas of expertise.
- Also, Tia's right. Former employers can often end up as eventual clients!
- Finally, full-time freelance writing can be done, but diversifying can provide you with more stability. Perhaps you could supplement your freelance work with a part-time job. Or provide other freelance services, like copy editing or corporate copywriting. Etc.
God, it's like I'm writing a novel. I hope this helps!
69 weeks ago
The thing about freelance is that you don't have to wait for that degree. You can just dive in now, and perhaps build up a strong client base that's already there by the time you graduate. How? Start pitching stories and building up a collection of clips. Build a professional site in order to showcase these clips. Become active on social media, so that you can both promote your work and connect with others in the industry. Network like hell.
Of course, there are a few things to consider before going all or nothing:
- Do you have enough money saved up to handle monthly expenses in the event you don't reach your income goals?
- Have you budgeted for health insurance? (I can't remember when graduates go off their parents' insurance...)
- What sets you apart from other writers? Sometimes, taking on other jobs can enrich your writing, and add to your areas of expertise.
- Also, Tia's right. Former employers can often end up as eventual clients!
- Finally, full-time freelance writing can be done, but diversifying can provide you with more stability. Perhaps you could supplement your freelance work with a part-time job. Or provide other freelance services, like copy editing or corporate copywriting. Etc.
God, it's like I'm writing a novel. I hope this helps!
69 weeks ago
Carlee Mallard:
Emily, will you be moving back to the Raleigh area after you graduate? Either way, you'll want to start reaching out to people in the community ...MoreEmily, will you be moving back to the Raleigh area after you graduate? Either way, you'll want to start reaching out to people in the community that you'll be living in after graduating as well. I hope you come back to us though!
69 weeks ago
69 weeks ago
Penelope Trunk
What do you think about changing your last name when you get married? I can't believe people do it, actually. I mean, you have an established track record in the workplace by the time most people get married. Why undermine yourself by telling people to call you another name? I have had so much trouble with my own name changes (people googling the wrong name, for instance) I can't believe people bring this on themselves. the practice strikes me as antiquated.
Aiden Schade:
This conversation is particularly interesting to me, because a few years back, I actually changed my entire name; first, middle, and last. It had ...MoreThis conversation is particularly interesting to me, because a few years back, I actually changed my entire name; first, middle, and last. It had a lot to do with forging my own identity.
In a historical sense, surnames used to be a lot more descriptive of a person, which is why most surnames translate into medieval professions, locations, and traits.
74 weeks ago
In a historical sense, surnames used to be a lot more descriptive of a person, which is why most surnames translate into medieval professions, locations, and traits.
74 weeks ago
Kelly Seiler:
Does anyone know someone who added their husband's name as a middle name? I kinda like the idea, but it seems like it would ruin the flow of my ...MoreDoes anyone know someone who added their husband's name as a middle name? I kinda like the idea, but it seems like it would ruin the flow of my name.
70 weeks ago
70 weeks ago
Stanley Lee
It may be obvious that large businesses are having a harder time dealing with decisions quickly than smaller firms b/c large corporations take a while to take a decision which effects their ability to move forward but at the same time, their size and slowness works towards not compromising the whole corporation due to silly 'quick' decision. Ryan Paugh recommended me to ask you for the statistics, so I'm wondering if you know of any stats off-hand. Thanks in advance.
Stanley Lee:
I guess the statistics are not obvious to measure. I wanted to ask this question about the pace from an organizational decision making point of ...MoreI guess the statistics are not obvious to measure. I wanted to ask this question about the pace from an organizational decision making point of view. I guess this conversation may be enough for me to link on my article. Thanks for answering this promptly!
74 weeks ago
74 weeks ago
Lindsey Sparks:
I don't have any stats, but glacially slow decision making was one reason I wanted out of the corporate world. At the end of stint as a marketing ...MoreI don't have any stats, but glacially slow decision making was one reason I wanted out of the corporate world. At the end of stint as a marketing manager at a large company I had to have 22 people sign off on one flyer. Not kidding. And it wasn't even anything out of the ordinary and was something I had done without much supervision years before.
74 weeks ago
74 weeks ago
TOP IDEA:
Jamie Nacht Farrell
I found a great video (link below) on TED; 2008 Harvard Commencement Speech by JK Rowlings. She talks about the "fringe benefits" of failure. This led me to think about my failures; and how they always lead to something better. This led me to the questions, "Are all failures purposeful?" Surely, we all learn something (or should) when we fail, but is there always more to it than that? Can you identify a failure that lead to nothing? I'm trying to, but cant think of one http://bit.ly/c2z5qH
78 weeks ago from Entrepreneurs, GenYJourney: Tips, Insights, Experiences For Young Professionals, Ask Penelope Trunk! and Creatively Inspired2 more
Sadya Siddiqui recommended this
Dave Ellis:
I read the book "Failing Forward". Good read. Failing is never fun (that goes without saying - so shuddup then!). But it truly is the best teacher ...MoreI read the book "Failing Forward". Good read. Failing is never fun (that goes without saying - so shuddup then!). But it truly is the best teacher once you get over the initial loss and IF you are willing to reflect on lessons to learn.
74 weeks ago
74 weeks ago
Penelope Trunk
Ryan Paugh asked me to give some advice on video. We had to do it five times because I kept not liking how I looked. Is this normal? I said that we all know it's great to work with people we really like, but instead of looking for those people, just BE one of those people. Be someone who is likable and then friends will come to you -- at any company. Do you think this is true?
Lindsey Sparks:
I think that's probably true, at least for me! I'm not very good at small talk and I'm usually not going to walk up to someone and introduce ...MoreI think that's probably true, at least for me! I'm not very good at small talk and I'm usually not going to walk up to someone and introduce myself. However, I always try to smile and say hi to people, and I find that people do end up coming to me. I just started a new job, and this seems to be working well. In high school my best friend was the type of person who never met a stranger, so I made a lot of friends through her striking up the initial conversation, which was wonderful! Too bad she lives in another state now or I might make her escort me to networking events!
78 weeks ago
78 weeks ago
Elizabeth Marling:
For what it's worth, video distorts the human face tremendously. We are just used to seeing a certain type of face on TV. When I was in college ...MoreFor what it's worth, video distorts the human face tremendously. We are just used to seeing a certain type of face on TV. When I was in college I took a TV workshop and they literally told us what type of face works well on video. Flat nose, high cheekbones, wide set eyes. Any other face won't come across on screen the way it looks in real life--the expression won't come through to the viewer. I don't know if that helps at all.
You could try standing back further. I have very angular features and I tend to look really goofy on video unless there is enough distance that my entire torso (at the very least) can be seen. Having another person in the shot also helped.
76 weeks ago
You could try standing back further. I have very angular features and I tend to look really goofy on video unless there is enough distance that my entire torso (at the very least) can be seen. Having another person in the shot also helped.
76 weeks ago
Anthony Johnson
I finally figured out what I want to do, which is completely different than what I'm doing now. I've been with my company 5 yrs and have a great reputation. But I don't feel comfortable approaching my boss about wanting to change careers (he wants me to take over his job), and I don't want to get another job within the company behind his back.
So I am faced with the decision of trying to make a career transition within my company, or trying to start fresh at a new company. What should I do?
Stephanie Springer and Rebecca Thorman recommended this
Sean Masters:
@Anthony I think you're already on the right track here but just remember that at the end of the day your happiness matters more than that of your ...More@Anthony I think you're already on the right track here but just remember that at the end of the day your happiness matters more than that of your employer. If you can't move within your company, move out of it!
77 weeks ago
77 weeks ago
Elizabeth Marling:
I wish I had your problems Mr. Johnson! You seem to have awesome options ahead of you. I doubt you can do anything wrong in this situation, so ...MoreI wish I had your problems Mr. Johnson! You seem to have awesome options ahead of you. I doubt you can do anything wrong in this situation, so I'd bask in my own success for a moment. Obviously you are doing something right.
76 weeks ago
76 weeks ago
Penelope Trunk
Why is this such a hard topic for me? When does someone put their work ahead of their family to the point of insanity? When is it okay? When is it okay to be second to someone's job? I think the answer is not black and white. Which is hard for me, in general (I like black and white). But I think the answer is more black and white than just look at how you feel and if you feel bad it's bad. What is the answer?
Vincent and Meghan Skiff recommended this
Eva Jio:
I think the question should be back to "What is the most important things in your life?". For me the answer is not "my job". It is one way to ...MoreI think the question should be back to "What is the most important things in your life?". For me the answer is not "my job". It is one way to support the most important things -and person- in my life. But others might have different answer?
77 weeks ago
77 weeks ago
Meghan Skiff:
I think that in only rare instances can this issue be black and white. After all, if you are always prioritizing family/friends, then doesn't that ...MoreI think that in only rare instances can this issue be black and white. After all, if you are always prioritizing family/friends, then doesn't that mean that you never getting any work done? Plus, certain situations present themselves that might take precedent over the things you deem as important, because they just have to get done. For instance, I'm in grad school (pt) while working (ft) right now. In the grander scope, family and friends are more important than my dreadful grad school experience. Despite this, I spent the month of July pretty much ignoring everyone because I had to get through finals. I think the answer is that it is situational, but a follow up questions would be "how do we balance day-to-day priorities with the big picture of what is most important to us in our lives?"
77 weeks ago
77 weeks ago
Andrew Heinzerling
HELP! I set a very high goal for my team, with the reward of each persong getting to throw a pie in my face. Well, they hit it, and I was then told that they would rather not, that it was not really a reward. This event would have brought most (if not all) of Senior Management, as well as many other teams to celebrate the win. We don't have the option to give them $ or time off for hitting goals, so I tried to come up with a fun event. Did I do something wrong? What are your thoughts?
77 weeks ago from Inspiring Leadership, Ask Penelope Trunk! and XY Cusp1 more
Elizabeth Marling:
It seems like your staff responded to the 'Betcha can't make THIS goal" taunting. Having the opportunity to really surprise and impress a boss is ...MoreIt seems like your staff responded to the 'Betcha can't make THIS goal" taunting. Having the opportunity to really surprise and impress a boss is a good reward. So the pie was a tricky detail--your idea was good. Sometimes it's good to shake things up by antagonizing the team a little. It's great to have a positive work environment, but a lot of places take it too far--only saying positive things and keeping quiet about any honest feedback. I don't think people perform any better in that environment than one with negative, tyrannical management (not implying you in either example, just a thought).
77 weeks ago
77 weeks ago
GenerationXpert Suzanne Kart:
I thought the same thing as Penelope. Why would a reward for your team have you as the center of attention. I'd give them a Friday afternoon off.
77 weeks ago
77 weeks ago
Penelope Trunk
I just read a great article about what makes girls successful: travel and alone time. http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20129513,00.html
I'm amazed. But I think that travel and alone time did make me feel very independent and self-reliant. What affected you as a child to encourage you to be successful as an adult? What makes you do the extra work that is required, for example, on Brazen Careerist? This place is a magnet for people who expect themselves to be very successful.
Rebecca Thorman, Chris Paugh and Joy Kennelly recommended this
Megan Atkinson:
I feel one of the most influential factors of my childhood were the examples that adults set for me. Granted, there were more bad examples than ...MoreI feel one of the most influential factors of my childhood were the examples that adults set for me. Granted, there were more bad examples than good from teenage years on, but the one thing that was constant was my dad and my brother's work ethic. Seeing two strong role models feel good about accomplishments they worked towards pushed me to work hard for everything I wanted. I was an "only" child in the sense that my siblings were in their mid twenties and had their own families when I was born, so I was spoiled in some senses, but I always *enjoyed* working for what I wanted ... even when I didn't have to.
79 weeks ago
79 weeks ago
Joy Kennelly:
I like this article so much, I'm tweeting it. I believe solo and family travel, time alone, reading, and competition definitely influenced my way ...MoreI like this article so much, I'm tweeting it. I believe solo and family travel, time alone, reading, and competition definitely influenced my way of life. I was also deeply influenced by my religious upbringing and schooling which has it's pros and cons.:)
I was a media escort to SR VP/President of Campbell Soup, Denise Morrison, (http://bit.ly/cpCotS) and her sisters nicknamed the Sullivan Sisters. I really wish they'd write a book because each of them have very powerful positions as a result of their upbringing.
Here's a brief overview: http://bit.ly/b7Cm8v Thanks for sharing yours Penelope. Always enjoy reading what you have to discuss.
78 weeks ago
I was a media escort to SR VP/President of Campbell Soup, Denise Morrison, (http://bit.ly/cpCotS) and her sisters nicknamed the Sullivan Sisters. I really wish they'd write a book because each of them have very powerful positions as a result of their upbringing.
Here's a brief overview: http://bit.ly/b7Cm8v Thanks for sharing yours Penelope. Always enjoy reading what you have to discuss.
78 weeks ago
Penelope Trunk
I'm struck today by how much more effective it is to ask a question on Brazen Careerist than it is to make a statement. I am starting to think that social media is amazing for training us on how to ask good questions. Because that's how to start a conversation. I wonder, though, do you guys think the best blog posts are asking a question? I don't generally ask questions on my blog. But now I'm wondering....
Ty Unglebower:
I really think it depends on that blogger, and even on the particular post. I don't think that asking a question is de facto the way to get more ...MoreI really think it depends on that blogger, and even on the particular post. I don't think that asking a question is de facto the way to get more responses or more traffic. (And if you don't believe me, post something controversial, and don't ask anything at the end of it. Comments will be aplenty.)
When I am legitimately curious of what others thing about a specific topic I will end with a question. But I still get comments even if I do not, and I welcome them.
I think a blog is about sharing what you want to share...whether that be a question, an observation, or a photo of a squirrel.
79 weeks ago
When I am legitimately curious of what others thing about a specific topic I will end with a question. But I still get comments even if I do not, and I welcome them.
I think a blog is about sharing what you want to share...whether that be a question, an observation, or a photo of a squirrel.
79 weeks ago
Becky Benishek:
Ty, more and more I admire your take on things.
I also think it matters how you ask a question. Like Vincent said, sincerity goes one heck of a ...MoreTy, more and more I admire your take on things.
I also think it matters how you ask a question. Like Vincent said, sincerity goes one heck of a long way towards getting comments and more.
I like the question-posts too (case in point right here!) but would equally respond to an engaging thought or post that didn't have an overt question involved. You're right, Penelope, in that social media is teaching us how to ask better questions -- and be better writers.
79 weeks ago
I also think it matters how you ask a question. Like Vincent said, sincerity goes one heck of a ...MoreTy, more and more I admire your take on things.
I also think it matters how you ask a question. Like Vincent said, sincerity goes one heck of a long way towards getting comments and more.
I like the question-posts too (case in point right here!) but would equally respond to an engaging thought or post that didn't have an overt question involved. You're right, Penelope, in that social media is teaching us how to ask better questions -- and be better writers.
79 weeks ago
Cameron Plommer
How does one become an evangelist? Is it a viable career path or is it a specialized career based on past success, personal klout and how big your network is, among other factors?
Cameron Plommer:
Penelope, you hit the nail on the head. I think the world is going to be much improved by a higher level of collaboration. Today's problems are ...MorePenelope, you hit the nail on the head. I think the world is going to be much improved by a higher level of collaboration. Today's problems are much too big. Collaboration is necessary now.
81 weeks ago
81 weeks ago
Jerry Clifford, Word Guru:
Cameron, if you are referring to religious evangelism, please make sure that God is calling you to do that!!!! By experience, I know how esy it is ...MoreCameron, if you are referring to religious evangelism, please make sure that God is calling you to do that!!!! By experience, I know how esy it is to get caught up in fervor for such an undertaking; however, great care must be taken because precious hearts, minds, & lives are at stake. Moreover, history is repleat with the regrettable evidence of man's attempt to accomplish or foment ideals and actiopns in God's name. God sits back shaking his head in frustration at so much misguided activity and even,as is so widespread, the carnage of religious foolishness! Now, if your "evangelism" is of another nature, please forgive my mistake. Best regards, Jerry the Word Guru... (and long time realistic follower of God)
81 weeks ago
81 weeks ago
Penelope Trunk
What do you guys think about Blogher? The convention. I'm supposed to be a panelist, but I'm thinking that it's full of whiny mommy bloggers who are trying to make money writing about their kids. And I should just not go. I need to decide this week. What do you think? Is anyone going?
Sarah Beckley:
@penelope I think the real question is, if you go this time, how can it be different--how can you make it a positive experience instead? Between ...More@penelope I think the real question is, if you go this time, how can it be different--how can you make it a positive experience instead? Between your actions/attitude and any changes the conference has made as well.
82 weeks ago
82 weeks ago
Danielle:
Why disrespect mom bloggers as a group and say we are all whiny? I say "we" because I blog, my family comes up frequently, and I'm not afraid to ...MoreWhy disrespect mom bloggers as a group and say we are all whiny? I say "we" because I blog, my family comes up frequently, and I'm not afraid to admit it. The experience that I have gained personally about social media and blogging has translated into marketable skills that I now use in my "day job". That wasn't my goal when I started as a mom who blogs, but it sure has been a valuable asset. I'm going to Blogher '10 in NYC and would have loved to see you there. If you decide to keep the commitment, I'd be happy to meet you in person without whining once.
81 weeks ago
81 weeks ago
lynnette
Penelope ! i missed your video on how to make money by blogging, is there a way i can still check it out?
Sadya Siddiqui recommended this
Penelope Trunk:
Annabel, that's a great suggestion - that I show a pie chart about how I make money from my blog. I've been blogging for four years, and I've made ...MoreAnnabel, that's a great suggestion - that I show a pie chart about how I make money from my blog. I've been blogging for four years, and I've made six figures each year, but each year it's been a really different mix. Here are some examples:
The columns on my blog labeled "Yahoo" - I got paid $1200 per column and I wrote once a week.
More than 200 print newspapers syndicate my blog posts. The pay is terrible - probably about $300/mo total.
I give speeches for $10k-$15K a pop, based on the content of my blog. At one point I was giving two speeches a week.
I get paid to endorse products ilke LinkedIN, Payscale, etc. I get paid $5K-$10K mo.
I got two six-figure book deals based on my blog - where I sort of repurpose the content. (But to be honest, I haven't delivered on the second one yet, so maybe that counts as debt and not earnings :)
I sold equity in my blog to investors - that nets me a salary of $150K /yr and my job is, among other things, to keep blogging.
You don't see ads on my site because I think it's such a bad way to earn money from a blog. The network you gain from blogging is worth way more than the ad dollars you could make from CPM models.
82 weeks ago
The columns on my blog labeled "Yahoo" - I got paid $1200 per column and I wrote once a week.
More than 200 print newspapers syndicate my blog posts. The pay is terrible - probably about $300/mo total.
I give speeches for $10k-$15K a pop, based on the content of my blog. At one point I was giving two speeches a week.
I get paid to endorse products ilke LinkedIN, Payscale, etc. I get paid $5K-$10K mo.
I got two six-figure book deals based on my blog - where I sort of repurpose the content. (But to be honest, I haven't delivered on the second one yet, so maybe that counts as debt and not earnings :)
I sold equity in my blog to investors - that nets me a salary of $150K /yr and my job is, among other things, to keep blogging.
You don't see ads on my site because I think it's such a bad way to earn money from a blog. The network you gain from blogging is worth way more than the ad dollars you could make from CPM models.
82 weeks ago
Annabel Candy:
Lol, that's brilliant Penelope. I've been tanking this week and love to hear your story. It's marvelous. I think your success has come from being ...MoreLol, that's brilliant Penelope. I've been tanking this week and love to hear your story. It's marvelous. I think your success has come from being a great writer and being brave enough to share your stories with the world. The network has grown from that as people are naturally attracted to your stories and talent. It's brilliant to hear of a woman who's doing so well online (or anywhere) and I haven't forgotten about interviewing you and will contact you soon to see if we can line it up. Thanks again!
82 weeks ago
82 weeks ago
Penelope Trunk
What do you guys think about Blogher? The convention. I'm supposed to be a panelist, but I'm thinking that it's full of whiny mommy bloggers who are trying to make money writing about their kids. And I should just not go. I need to decide this week. What do you think? Is anyone going?
Annabel Candy:
Lol, I think give it a miss if you're feeling that way:) I just had my posts syndicated there - didn't get me too many readers... But some of the ...MoreLol, I think give it a miss if you're feeling that way:) I just had my posts syndicated there - didn't get me too many readers... But some of the ladies are lovely! I'd love to go to a BlogHer conference though... especially if you were speaking!
82 weeks ago
82 weeks ago
Kristen Jeffers:
Go. You are on the panel and therefore you can be a game changer. Plus, some of those mommy bloggers have a core in them that wants to write about ...MoreGo. You are on the panel and therefore you can be a game changer. Plus, some of those mommy bloggers have a core in them that wants to write about something else. Go and be an encouragement to them to be Brazen Mommies!
82 weeks ago
82 weeks ago
Sharalyn Hartwell
A guy friend working on a marketing project for his Master's has been asking me a lot of questions about marketing to women. He asked the pinnacle question yesterday, "Why is it great to be a woman?" I had a hard time putting it into words. Scientists recently discovered women deal with stress better because of the relationships they create http://tinyurl.com/g5ml. But is there more to it than that? Why is it great to be a woman? I'd love your take. Guys too. What do you think?
85 weeks ago from Young Professional Women (YPW), Ask Penelope Trunk!, u30pro, Young Professional Men (YPM) and Dress Code Personal Style3 more
Elysa Rice, David Spinks, Bryon Ownby, Scott Hale and Becky Benishek and 2 others recommended this
Albert Ciuksza Jr.:
@Megan - I would say that current marketing tends to focus on more simple/superficial aspects of women's lives rather than their expanding (and ...More@Megan - I would say that current marketing tends to focus on more simple/superficial aspects of women's lives rather than their expanding (and borderline/soon-to-be-dominating) role in society. From my reading, it seems to be consistent that women want to be respected as leading consumers, which is sadly not as obvious as it should be.
82 weeks ago
82 weeks ago
Elizabeth Marling:
@Albert--sorry, I thought it was being posted by a different person. My bad. Sorry about that.
82 weeks ago
82 weeks ago
Will Deyamport, III, MSEd
Logged into the courseroom yesterday, and I just couldn't get excited about another quarter in school. I'd rather pursue my interest of using Social Media in Education. I have informed my advisor that I am taking the quarter to pursue said interest.
Am I crazy? I know a doctorate should be work, but should I have to will myself to finish it? What do you think of my decision?
Penelope Trunk:
The question is, do you need the degree to get the jobs you want to have. I can't think of very many social media/education guru types who have a ...MoreThe question is, do you need the degree to get the jobs you want to have. I can't think of very many social media/education guru types who have a phD in it. Can't you get a masters and be done? I left graduate school early (and so did the farmer!) and it was right for me.
82 weeks ago
82 weeks ago
Will Deyamport, III, MSEd:
@Penelope: I have a master's of science in education. It may be enough. I am taking this quarter off to find out if it is.
82 weeks ago
82 weeks ago
Michala Schmidt
My family and I are trying to relocate to another state, however we are having a very hard time finding employment from the state we're in. Any thoughts or suggestions on how to market yourself from 1500 miles away?
Julie Ferris:
It may be true to move first, but it's just a financial impossibility for me. I have to have a job to leave one. I'm, of course, dedicated to ...MoreIt may be true to move first, but it's just a financial impossibility for me. I have to have a job to leave one. I'm, of course, dedicated to trying, so I'm cutting expenses, trying to pay bills and get a "moving" savings ready to go, but that will take a very long time... I'm trying to cover my bases--I'm heavily hoping/betting on getting hired and getting there on that job...but I'm stashing away to move and then become gainfully employed. If I'm being rational in a 60-40 split, I can still be allowed the fantasy of finding the right conversation, bumping in to the right network and getting hired from here. Hey, I'll skype the crap out of an interview if they want...no flight required. :)
I have done it once already and could manage the expense of flying MYSELF to the interview...wrote it off as job hunting...and landed the job from afar. I've been teased with that success once...so I believe in it ;)
82 weeks ago
I have done it once already and could manage the expense of flying MYSELF to the interview...wrote it off as job hunting...and landed the job from afar. I've been teased with that success once...so I believe in it ;)
82 weeks ago
Private Message
LinkedIn
Following (13)
