It’s hard to reflect on 2011 without seeming self serving. The truth is, I’m almost sad to see this year end. It’s been an amazing ride, and I achieved goals I worked for my entire career. So while I’d like to give a fond look back, and discuss what’s coming up, I’ll also do my best to keep the self serving part in check.
The Year That Was 2011
2011 was my first full year with BlogWorld & New Media Expo. In addition to being part of an incredible team of people, I also played a major role in shaping the educational content for two conferences. I can’t begin to describe to you what an honor it is to to work with both speakers and attendees in order to bring the right mix of education to our events. Through my job and at other conferences and events I met people from all walks of life, some famous in this space, some on their way up the ladder, and some who are ok with hanging in the background. All are equally important. Meeting people is the best part of my job and I feel so fortunate to get out of bed each day and know I’m going to do what I love. After over 20 years of not wanting to get out of bed to do a job I don’t enjoy, I don’t think I need to tell you how good that feels.
I traveled more for work in 2011 and I have to admit, this is one of my favorite parts of the job. I love seeing new cities and meeting new people. I miss my family terribly but thanks to Facetime, I still get to see them every night. I don’t like the jetlag part, or the not sleeping well in hotels part, but I do love the travel.
2011 was also the year I landed two book contracts and achieved my childhood dream of becoming an author.” Online Community Management for Dummies” went on sale in November to good reviews (hope they keep coming) and I just signed to co-author the second edition of ”Social Media Marketing All in One for Dummies” with Jan Zimmerman. I’ve already gotten started on the writing and look forward to seeing it published this summer. I hope to not stop at two books and have several ideas for future writing.
By the way, the top post for Kommein for 2011 was my Open Letter to Teens Who Use Facebook and the top referrer of traffic to this blog was Facebook.
The Year That Will Be 2012
I’m even more excited about 2012. In addition to the aforementioned books, I’ve been asked to head all community efforts for BlogWorld. Though I’ll still be doing some of the usual Conference Director stuff, and I’ll continue to work with speakers, my main focus for 2012 will be to grow our community and create new programs and campaigns. Again, I’m honored. Those of you who also follow me through the BlogWorld channels and networks know how passionate I am about our community.
In addition to writing and community, I hope to keep on keeping on. I’ll continue to update Kommein when I can and will still spend time with you all on the various social networks.
I have some personal non-work related goals, but I’m keeping them between me and my family. For us, 2012 will be a wonderful year of togetherness and growth.
What are your shining moments from 2011 and what do you hope to achieve in 2012?
