Timelines, Pages, and Cover Photos (Oh My!) Why the New Facebook Brand Timeline Isn't So Scary

Social media is an ever evolving entity and Facebook is notorious for never hesitating to make drastic changes to layout or functionality. In the classic movie, The Wizard of Oz, a tornado blew into Dorothy and Toto's quiet Kansas farm town and literally hurled them into the unfamiliar Land of Oz. Some Facebook users feel similarly displaced whenever Facebook introduces a new change or update. To them, it's as though they've been swept up in an unavoidable social media tornado. Facebook executives have every hope that their users will follow the yellow brick road and feel at home in their new layout 'Land of Oz.' The designers send out tutorials and previews, but unfortunately, while Facebook is hoping to come across like the Lollipop Guild, many users see only menacing flying monkeys.


How Facebook Perceives Timeline Transformation 


How Business Owners Perceive Timeline Transformation


Whatever your perception is, on March 30th all Facebook Pages will convert over to Timeline automatically. The Wizard has spoken and change is inevitable. The good news is that Facebook and many other social media savvy companies, such as Constant Contact and Mashable, try to make these times of transition easy on us - kind of like sweet little Toto showing Dorothy and her friends that The Man Behind the Curtain isn't so scary after all. 

So don't start clicking your ruby slippers and chanting, "There's no place like home," just yet. Many brands are already forging down the yellow brick road and setting up their new Timelines for one good reason: Facebook retains and engages customers, employees, and strategic partners by encouraging them to share their love for your brand with friends. Escoe Bliss recently entered the gates of the Emerald City and went live with our own Facebook Brand Timeline. Our initial thoughts are that the Timeline really does do a better job of expressing the look and feel of our culture. (We'd love to hear your feedback as well.) Transitioning from Facebook Page to Timeline was not very complicated (you might even call it fun) and we'd like to share some of the insights and links that we found helpful, so that you can get your brand ready for this new era in social media branding.

Mashable's Facebook Timeline for Brands: The Complete Guide is exactly what it sounds like. This article does a wonderful job of explaining the ins and outs of the new Timeline. You'll find video links, examples of other great brand Timelines that have already gone live, and more links to a variety of articles on the new Facebook layout.

Constant Contact is another favorite source of ours. Their blog, Facebook Timeline is Coming to Brand Pages...And We Love It!, takes a comprehensive look at the change, how it will affect your brand, and explains how to make the most of the new features.

One piece of the new Timeline that really gives the brand a chance to shine is the new cover photo. Browse the photo album 20 Striking Facebook Brand Page Cover Photos (courtesy of Constant Contact) to get your own creative juices flowing. 

Begin thinking about your brand's Facebook content in a new way. Your brand Timeline will tell your customers a story. Social Media Today outlines Eleven Ways Facebook Page Timelines Change Your Content Strategy. This article makes valuable points as to how a new content approach can really be in the best interest of your brand.

There are a few new things to learn, but remember that Dorothy, the Scarecrow, and the Tin Man were also afraid of an unknown that they grew to love. Their chant of, "Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!" led them to meet their treasured friend the Cowardly Lion (who, in fact, was very brave). There are some new features to learn about the Facebook brand Timeline, but if you're willing to take a little time and learn your way around, you might discover that your Facebook Timeline is the new marketing companion your brand has been looking for. Facebook Timeline can bring your product or service down the yellow brick road to the Emerald City of success. 

2012 Top Ten Professional Resolutions

2012 is no longer just an action movie or a looming prophecy, it is about to become reality. This is the time of year when we ponder changes and eagerly welcome a fresh, new start. Resolutions need not always be of a personal nature. In the spirit of building relationships and making connections, Escoe Bliss has decided to share our top ten goals for 2012.

If you know Escoe Bliss, you know we love grammar! This list of resolutions is derived from some etymological fun surrounding the historical origin of ‘en'. 'En' is of Greek origin, meaning: in, into, inside, inwards. 

 So without further ado, here are:

The Top Ten Professional Resolutions to Ring "En" Your New Year! 

1. Envision: to picture mentally; especially some future event or events "As long as the mind can envision the fact that you can do something, you can do it, as long as you really believe it one hundred percent." - David Hockney, Artist, Designer, Photographer
   Making resolutions is your first step to envisioning success in 2012, but you need to get behind them and make them real. Write your resolutions down. Review your goals on a regular basis in order to keep them fresh and stay motivated. Set realistic expectations; expecting too much, too quick is counterproductive and will only breed frustration.
2. Engage: to occupy the attention or efforts of (a person or persons)
   With all of the advancements in social media, engaging your clients, business partners, and prospects has never been easier and more affordable. You may need to take a little time to educate yourself about what are the most useful and appropriate social media tools for your business, but the resources are out there. With little time you can easily communicate with your audience and increase brand strength. Social media gives you an opportunity to share and initiate discussion with your followers and form a relationship with them. The relationship you build will foster customer loyalty and business success.
3. Enhance: to raise to a higher degree or to raise the value of
   An easy way to enhance your business in 2012 is to take a look at your brand statement or elevator speech. Have you re-evaluated these recently? Business is a changing entity and the message about your mission and services needs to continually evolve. For more information, great tips, useful links on composing a stellar elevator speech read our November Communication Corner.
4. Enrich: to add greater value or significance to
   Our own Jolynn Atkins, VP of Strategic Operations and Consulting Solutions, stands by the belief that she is forever a student of life. Make it your mission to continually to enrich your mind, skill set, and desires. Membership and active involvement in professional organizations is a wonderful way to stay knowledgeable about the latest developments in your industry while building your professional network. 
5. Enlighten: Illumine, edify, teach, inform
   Lead by example in 2012. Each of us bring unique talents to our offices and the best way to foster growth is to share what we know. If you're an executive, consider becoming a mentor to a fresh face in your field. Not only will you teach them invaluable lessons, but you will probably learn a thing or two as well. A mentoring relationship is a beautiful thing, because it is a mutually beneficial relationship. If on the other hand you are new to a field, don't be shy about approaching someone you admire and asking them for their guidance. Often we don't realize how much we have to contribute until someone asks us to share. Asking an experienced associate for their insight will both flatter and motivate them.
6. Enable: to make ready; equip (often used in combination)
   If you're going to have a successful year, you need to be equipped with the right tools and the only way to truly improve is by taking an honest look at our weaknesses. Regular feedback and constructive criticism both motivate and teach us how to be more effective employees, leaders, and coworkers. Return on Recognition® Program (ROR) is a new web based tool that revolutionizes the world of employee performance assessments. ROR® is a coaching system intended to encourage increased employee performance and engagement through positive, ongoing communication and recognition.
   Take advantage of the exlusive Insider ROR® offer. Email Regina Gormanly to get your copy.
7. Encourage: to inspire courage, hope, or spirit
   Corporate responsibility is crucial to your business and society as a whole. As you begin the year assess your company's level of involvement in your community. Do you have a charity of choice? If you do, is your relationship with them vibrant? Reach out to their community or corporate relations team member to find out if your organization can help with any current and crucial needs. Make sure  you are communicating your support and advocacy to your clients, partners, and employees. Hope is contagious and carries with it wonderful side effects such as customer loyalty, brand recognition, and increased employee morale.
8. Endure: to hold out against; sustain without impairment or yielding; undergo
   Our country was formed by groups of people looking for solutions in hard times. Perseverance is in our blood and it's the back bone of our culture. During difficult economic times like these we need to hold fast to the simple practices that have proven themselves invaluable throughout history. In 2012, hard work, respect, and responsible spending are the keys to weathering this economic storm. Keep your business practices honest and use your budget intelligently. This will help your business fiscally and project a responsible image to your clients, which will encourage their loyalty and repeat business.
9. Ensure: to secure or guarantee
   Guarantee yourself, your brand, and possibly your company that this will be a year of growth and profitability. Secure a prominent position in your market by using economical tools and concentrating on retention (of valuable employees and customers).  Sheryl Crowe states in her song Soak Up the Sun, "It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got." Often there is considerable potential and value surrounding us and the key to maximizing results is appreciating what we already have. Frequent communication and exclusive offers are a great way to retain existing clients (see Resolution 1, Engage). Opportunities for education and advancement are great retention tools for high-performing employees (See Resolutions 5 and 6, Enlighten and Enable). There are also a wide selection of affordable corporate training tools and software programs available. Ask Escoe Bliss how our highly qualified e-learning professionals can help with your next internal training project.
10. Enjoy! to experience with joy; take pleasure in
    Armed with your resolutions for 2012, you are a professional force to be reckoned with! The only remaining token of advice is, "the more the merrier!" Share, share, share with your colleagues, family and friends, and superiors and staff. A well trained soldier has a good shot at success, but a well trained army can't lose. Once you begin working in unison with others on these professional resolutions, you will begin to see the benefits for your office, brand, and community. Leaving you with the fun part; lots of reasons to celebrate!

Resource Associate wanted to join our team!

Job Title	Resource Associate
Location	Irvine, CA
Job Description	Company Overview Escoe Bliss Professional Resources, founded in 1994, is a project-based resource firm supporting and leading our clients with process improvement, training, change management and communications consulting teams. We are seeking a resource associate who will contribute to the growth of our organization by proactively sourcing consultants to build a ready to go network for client projects. Our corporate offices are in a relaxing and open environment with many windows and contemporary décor (no cubicles), near the oasis of shops and restaurants at the Irvine Spectrum. The culture of Escoe Bliss is dynamic, warm, ethical, and pet-friendly. Our success is a result of an outstanding national reputation for customer care, the most qualified resources, and the highest level of integrity. We are looking for an individual who shares our values and commitment to our clients and each other.
Job Responsibilities	5-7 years experience recruiting high level or executive candidates or consultants Contribute to the development of project role descriptions and statements of work Identify and apply successful sourcing strategies and resources, including social media and other web based tools Contribute to process improvement including recruiting, qualifying, placement, QA maintenance, and administration Communicate with managers and consultants regularly to establish rapport, strengthen morale, and develop new consultant leads Offer creative recruiting solutions Network with professional contacts and associations, consultants, and colleagues Develop and maintain a pool of qualified consultants in advance of need Recruit and qualify project consultants who meet client requirements Arrange client informational meetings, reference and background checks, and follow-up Communicate consultant acceptance and rejection Orient and onboard consultants Perform administrative and recordkeeping tasks that support current and future business development Conduct regular follow-up with managers to determine the effectiveness of recruiting plans and implementation Knowledge of corp-to-corp and subcontracting engagements Market available consultants to existing and prospective clients (inside sales) Performs to metrics as agreed upon with management – includes sales phone calls to clients and in person meetings with consultants Perform other tasks as assigned, which may include but not be limited to community outreach, presentations, workshops, and publications Comply with Escoe Bliss values and ethics Experience or knowledge of technical writing, instructional design, training, change management, and corporate communications preferred
Job Requirements	Attentive and caring disposition Active listener Relationship builder Works well individually and on a team Ability to work in a highly organized and efficient manner under pressure Proactive and comfortable with taking initiative Friendly, sunny, and outgoing demeanor Good English spelling, writing, and speaking skills. Be able to pass a written test for basic English Excellent oral and verbal communication Detail oriented Professional appearance Ability to take general direction and exercise initiative in details Highest level of integrity Experience handling many projects at once Able to deal with the stress and pressure of upcoming deadlines and multiple obstacles Adept at resolving conflict Able to break through barriers to achieve goals Good attendance and punctuality Touch typing: At least 45 wpm without errors Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, & Outlook Experience with contact management software, such as ACT!
Job Duration	Direct hire – internal position
Compensation	DOE – base + commission Benefits include 15 days combined sick, vacation, and personal time off; 6 paid holidays; partially paid premiums for health, dental, and vision insurance, and a company matching 401(k) program.
Contact Information	Please email your résumé in MS Word and professional or educational references for confidential consideration to: Jolynn Atkins, jatkins@escoebliss.com ** Thank you for understanding that based on the number of responses, we will be in touch with next steps only if your résumé demonstrates all of the requirements of the position. **

New Year = New Career! Part 1

Happy New Year to all! Good news! There is a buzz from the pipeline that contract, temp, and direct hire placements are on the rise. Are you ready for your new career? We will have a series of tips to get you geared up and ready to go! If you are not using social networking, start! Most recruiters and hiring managers are using social networking sites such as Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter in addition to the job boards to find talent. Today we are sharing the basics on how to get started on Linkedin.

Part 1 - Creating a Linkedin profile as an alternate resume to snag a new career or project

Profile Dos:
1. Complete your profile
2. Create an eye catching headline
3. Keep your profile up to date with current experience and projects
4. Edit your public profile to include your full name and add that link to your resume
5. Add at least 5 specialties to your experience and search criteria
6. Ask for at least 2 recommendations for each employer or project
7. Personalize your summary to show your character and personality

Profile Don'ts:
1. Add a profile picture that is NOT a professional representation of you
2. Post a web link of your work that is not live
3. Ignore your inbox (it could contain messages about a new opportunity)
4. Add too many past employers - keep it fresh and related to your current job search

Additional tips:
1. Change your profile status often in order to stay in the forefront of everyone's mind
2. Add a Word doc or pdf of your resume to your profile (use the Linkedin application)
3. Increase networking opportunities by joining Linkedin groups related to your search and community

You can view a sample profile here.

Hope this is a helpful tool for you to get started. Please feel free to post your questions below and we will respond accordingly.

LavaCon 2.0: The Conference on Digital Media and Content Strategies

Review by Pamela Coca

To delve deeply into social media is an understatement when explaining the underlying theme of this year’s LavaCon conference in San Diego, CA, September 29 through October 2, 2010. Technical writers and social media gurus flew in from all over the world. It was, to say the least, absolutely phenomenal! There were nearly 60 sessions and pre- and post-conference workshops on content development, project management and social media marketing.

LavaCon creator and Executive Director, Jack Molisani, must have cloned himself for the conference because he was omnipresent—Jack was everywhere, all the time.

Prior to the conference, my perception of social media was that it was a way for teens to stay in touch and perverts to find new victims. By the end of the first day I had completely changed my mind and gained new respect for the subject.

LavaCon opened with Jolynn Atkins of Escoe Bliss Professional Resources helping attendees get acquainted before starting her talk, Introduction to Social Media. By the end of Jolynn’s presentation everyone in the audience had LinkedIn and Twitter accounts—yes, even me.



Social media guru and Escoe Bliss manager, Jolynn Atkins got LavaCon off to a great start by making sure attendees knew each other (in person and on line).

DK from MediaSnackers flew in from Wales in the UK to present on Social Media for Executives, Business Owners and Entrepreneurs and the excitement built. When DK was finished, we had been introduced to Animoto, Audioboo, bubbl.us, capzles, coveritlive, slideshare, ustream and of course, facebook, just to name a few. Our heads were spinning! So suffice to say, LavaCon was off to a great start.

Over the next three days our brains turned quickly to mush as we rushed from one session to the next, trying to absorb everything that was being offered to us. I could go on and on telling you about each and every presenter that I heard and saw, but I’d need to write a novel instead of a blog. The best way you can catch up on what you missed is to visit the LavaCon wall. Besides slide presentations of almost every presenter, you will find news, recaps, tweets, and much more.

LavaCon events cater to the experienced technical writer who already knows the basics and who wants more and more and more. They are certainly not for the meek. By noon on the last day everyone was better educated, well-connected, and totally exhausted. We had been entertained, amused, and over-whelmed. We learned about re-tweets, mash-ups, pipes, and aggregators. We picked up acronyms like UX and UA and RIM. And as we waved goodbye to friends, old and new, we all swore to ourselves that we would type up our hand-scribbled notes and document our takeaways so that when LavaCon rolls around next year, we will remember why we loved it so much and why we have to return.

Southern Californian, Pamela Coca of Write-On Communications says she has been writing professionally since dinosaurs roamed the earth. Penned items include magazine articles, news editorials, tech manuals, web content, medical curriculum, and anything else that allows ink to be placed on paper. She believes that writers live to write as well as write to live. She is well-known in local circles for creating the award-winning Escoe Bliss Professional Resources website.

Painting the Town with Escoe Bliss!

First let me apologize for the lull in blog posts this past month, business and training at Escoe Bliss has been booming.

Although the Escoe Bliss team is out and about in the community most every week, we will be "Painting the Town" later this summer and early fall with some upcoming events. Please join us! We would love to connect.

Connect with us at these local events:

August 17th & 18th - 2010 Navy Gold Coast in San Diego - Exhibitor

September 29th - October 2nd - 2010 LavaCon Conference in San Diego - Speaker & Exhibitor

October 2nd - Project Management Institute, Orange County Chapter - Speaker/Presenter

For more information about the above mentioned events, please feel free to contact us at 949-336-6444 or jatkins@escoebliss.com

HELP WANTED but are you?

Over the past year I have met people in transition and have been asked the same question..."How do I stand out among the crowd?" When I answer that question with, "Do you have a job search strategy and a social media presence?," nine times out of ten the answer is no.

What is a job search strategy?

A job search strategy is a full-time job. Wake up every morning as if you are going to work that day, reply to and send emails, check the daily postings, setting up networking appointments and more. Welcome to your new job as an entrepreneur and administrative assistant. Here is a quick breakdown of tips to share from my experience as a recruiter.

1. Make your emails professional but personal. Address your email to the appropriate person and use the body of the email to tie your experience in with the company culture and capabilities.
   
2. Keep a log of the positions that you applied for. Here is a free sample from Microsoft. http://bit.ly/dgdeDy - Use this log to place follow up calls and as a reference when you received return calls.
   
3. Think outside of the box. In addition to job boards such as Monster, Careerbuilder, Hotjobs, and Dice, use social media such as Linkedin, Twitter, Meetup and more. (see Linkedin tips below in the second part of this blog)
   
4. Attend FREE or low cost networking events in your area of expertise or desired industry.
   
5. Create a professional, yet eye-catching business card that includes your skill sets, target employers or industries and contact info (phone, email, URL for Linkedin profile)
   
6. Have a professional email address for example, firstname and lastname@gmail.com, a clear and business appropriate voice mail message and ring tone on your cell or home phone. (this means no reverse ring tones such as Gin And Juice by Snoop Dogg - not that I am not a D-O-double G fan, but what first impression does this leave for the recruiter/employer?)

What is a social media presence?

As a recruiter, I am a firm believer in the power of social media for connecting with talent. Linkedin happens to have replaced our organization's use of job boards over the past 2 years. Here are helpful hints to get you started on a Linkedin profile or in maintaining an existing one.

Profile Dos
Complete your profile
Create an eye-catching headline
Keep your profile up to date with current experience and projects
Edit your public profile link to include your full name and add the link to your résumé
Add at least five specialties specific to your experience and search
Ask for at least 2 recommendations for each employer/project
Personalize your summary to show your character and personality

Profile Don’ts
Add a profile picture that is NOT a professional representation of you
Post a web link of your work or a blog that is not live
Ignore your inbox (there could be messages about a new opportunity)
Add too many past employers, keep it fresh and related to your current search

Additional Tips
Change your profile status often in order stay in the forefront of everyone’s mind
Add a Word doc or pdf of your résumé to your profile
Increase networking opportunities by joining Linkedin groups related to your search or community (you can join up to 50 and can change them up as frequently as you prefer)

At Escoe Bliss, we believe in living our Core Values including taking personal responsibility in our relationships and partnerships. We hope that this blog helps you start on the right path to securing your next career, project or gig. If we can ever be of assistance, please don't hesitate to call or email us. Contact info can be found at http://www.escoebliss.com/.

Wishing you the best success!
Jolynn Atkins, Manager of Consulting Solutions (and the rest of the Escoe Bliss team)