A few weeks ago I wrote about Aaron Strout moving from Boston to Auston (or #bostontoaustin, as Bryan Person tagged on Twitter).
In that post, I compared Boston’s social media scene to a sports team, with superstars, utility players, and rookies. One thing I didn’t do was tell you where I see myself within with these descriptions.
I’m no rookie.
I’ve been involved in social applications on the internet since before the term social media was created. From my beginning participating in, then moderating, and finally running auto-enthusiast forum communities, to creating DesignBoston over two years ago, to SM4SC, maneuvering social media isn’t new to me.
Nor am I a grizzled veteran.
Sure, I’ve been involved in social media in one form or another for years. But by no means do I consider myself a veteran in this field. Every day, I’m excited by new developments in this field. New applications. New forms of communication. We’re still in the infant stage of this industry, and I’m ready to be a part of this for years to come.
I’m not a superstar, either.
Both of my blogs get decent traffic, but not enough to brag about. I don’t have a huge following on Twitter. I’ve only recently started doing public speaking. I know my stuff, but I’m by no means a star.
I’m a utility player.
I have experience, but also the enthusiasm of a rookie. I’m confident about my skills, and I’m willing to share what I know with those that don’t. When a big name player leaves our ranks, I do what I can to bring myself up and help fill the void.
What about you? Where do you see yourself in the social media lineup?
Now that is a good question, Mr. Tripp.
Writing about tech and then tech+social media since 1990, helping people use the tools behind the scenes, coming out to speak and explore the Boston SoMe landscape in person more and more over the last two years, opening Uptown Uncorked…. I guess based on what I do for a living I’d say Coach, but I’d be much more interested in what OTHERS would say.
I suppose the best analogy to me is the tarp.
I see myself as providing a protection service to companies and individuals fearing damage by processes they can’t control and I can show them how there’s nothing to fear but fear itself. Then, once I’m confident they are OK to move on, I’ll remove myself and watch them from the utility room.
I wouldn’t be the athlete that talks about themselves in the third person ;). I’m more interested in client, employer, peers (meaning team) success.
Not to jump in on a future comment, but Aaron Strout @astrout and I might lean towards Jon Papelbon. We close, intense, get results and have a great time doing it while dancing with Bud Light beer cases on our heads (umm, maybe not the last part). Then again we’re both sane, so strike out that idea.
By the way, Gradon, my friend, you are (especially after yesterday’s MVP news), Dustin Pedroia!
Dude - thanks for the mention. And I agree with @nooneyouknow - you’re definitely Pedroia (or maybe even Youk). The unsung hero who’s gritty, selfless and just goes out and produces. I know Alex Cora, and son, you’re no Alex Cora!
Best,
Aaron | @astrout
So glad you posted this! Love the idea of utility player - you find the gaps and fill accordingly. You have depth and breadth and can roll with the changes.
Don’t know who would be in the lineup. But the sport would have to be soccer - it’s the best sport! HAHA. I would have to say I’d see myself as the starter. I can start things, and started my own music blog, and enjoy getting things off the ground.
I think I am the ridiculous mascot who is secretly teaching the all-stars how to improve their pitching.