In years past, the ability to influence large groups of people was something held by those in powerful positions. Politicians, journalists, celebrities and the wealthy had the means and the platform to get a message out and affect change. But with the rise of the Internet, blogging and social media, regular people have carved out niches of influence that are often more effective than of those who have come before. We’ve entered into an era where people have become cynical where there leaders are concerned, less likely to pay attention to the mainstream media and weary of big corporations. Instead, citizen journalists, niche bloggers and those willing to invest in relationship on social media are becoming the new voices of influence. I’ve spent the last twenty years of my life seeking to create valuable products and services which have touched the lives of millions of people around the world. And that’s why I am excited about an article that ran in a recent edition of Colorado’s business paper of record, The Denver Business Journal. The piece, titled “Wielding Influence“, sought to establish who the state of Colorado could claim to be the individuals with the greatest social influence. The article listed the Top 15 individuals covering a number of niches, including sports, entertainment, finance, education, media and technology. I’m very pleased to say that I made the cut! John Elway was listed as the #1 influencer in the state, with a Klout score of 87. But right behind him (with a Klout score of 83 and a large social media following), and tied for second place with Denver investigative reporter David Sirota, was none other than myself! I was listed as the #1 social influencer in marketing, a very humbling accolade to receive. The Denver Business Journal did a follow-up series that week, featuring interviews with several of the top influencers. You can read my interview here. Other top influencers referenced in the article included Peter McGraw, a professor at University of Colorado Boulder; Brad Feld, co-founder of The Foundry Group, a large venture capital firm; Don Cooper, a local sales strategist; and Mariana Wagner, partner at a successful Keller Williams Realty team in Colorado Springs. It’s an honor to be recognized by The Denver Business Journal for my efforts, both local, nationally and around the world. You never know how many lives you can affect in a positive way when you are living out your passion! And while it is a privilege to be recognized, the truth is that each one of you reading this blog have the opportunity to be influential in your sphere. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a doctor, a teacher, an accountant, a cashier, a plumber or any other occupation, you can affect those around you by what you do. It’s my hope that you will make each day count and understand that you are impacting lives by doing good stuff. As always, I welcome your comments and feedback. Use the form below and please let me know your thoughts!
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