Amazon Review: “Being in the digital space for about 6 years, I can truly say I learned so many new strategies from this book! Eric’s book is no gimmick, because he actually practices what he preaches. I can see it on his social networks.
I loved the chapter on “Personal is Powerful”, because I also struggled to be transparent in a “politically correct” world. This chapter inspired me to come out of my shell, and become more authentic with my audience.
The examples in this book are totally worth the cost. I enjoyed how Eric talks about different digital approaches and then he backs them up with a great success story. My favorite success story has to be the one of “Liz” or “Secret Agent L”, and her random acts of kindness. I never thought of such a creative idea! Even though I have been in the digital space for a long time I still wanted to read this book so I could enhance my skills if they needed enhancing.
I would recommend this book to anyone who is in the digital space or is a marketer. No matter how advanced you are, this book will sharpen your skills and make you a BETTER digital leader; at least that is the effect it had on me! I already started applying Eric’s principles and my network is looking pretty bright!” Sweta Patel
I also want to share with you the 5 different concepts in this book and how they have shaped me as a digital leader.
Book Review: Digital Leader By Eric Qualman
Simple
In this section, Eric talks about how simplicity leads to success in the digital space. I use to be a big fan of multi-tasking until I read this section. He goes into how multitasking can prohibit productivity. The examples he gives on multitasking blew me away! Also, he talks about how complaining and failing tactics when it comes to digital media. For example, sarcasm, complaints, off-color jokes, racist comments, illegal activity, arguing politics and religion (making it personal) are all social media fails. I don’t recall using any of these, but if you do, then watch out! Here are a few of my favorite quotes from this section:
“The best way to handle this new digital ages in regards to your reputation is to maintain your integrity, and treat everyone you engage both online and offline as if he is the last person you might ever speak to.”
“Measure your words twice, post once.” ~ @equalman
“Have you ever heard someone say, ‘I really like hanging out with her because she makes everything so complicated?’”
True
This section talks about following your passion even through the complications of adversity. Eric goes into depth about discovering your passion and really finding yourself. He suggests that you decide WHO you want to be prior to WHAT you want to be. I enjoyed reading how he helps people find their niche. My favorite part of the section was when he talked about personal being powerful. This was my favorite because I feel like I have always hidden apart of myself from the public just to be “politically correct.” However, this section inspired me to be myself and not care what others think of me as a person. He talks about having a healthy attitude equaling a healthy body. I couldn’t agree more! It is vital to treat your body and mind with the greatest positivity! Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
“To become a true digital leader you don’t have the freedom of having multitude of personalities like decades in the past. Your true personality is just a camera phone away from being discovered.”
“Following your passion in the face of ridicule, or other barriers, displays your worth as an individual.”
“…the protagonist discovers happiness in life isn’t about money or having sex with beautiful people. Rather, one feels best by making other people happy.”
Act
Action is more important than words. I am sure everyone has heard this cliché saying. One of the biggest things Eric talks about in this section is to be decisive because that is a leadership quality. I have struggled with this for many years because I didn’t like saying “no.” Then I realized if I have followers who are looking up to me for inspiration, I couldn’t leave them hanging. Eric talks about failing forward, failing fast and failing better. We all know failing is a part of life, but the way you fail could be changed to reach the ultimate success in your life. Here are a few of my favorite quotes in this section:
“Going through life with caution is like driving with the breaks on.” @Equalman
“He indicates the more you eat, the more you want.”
“It’s not how much you get done that matters, it’s what you’ve done.” @Equalman
Map
When you have a plan created you are clear about your destination in life. Eric talks about creating goals and how to create them based on your passion. My favorite part was his video tips in this section; this is exactly what I needed for my own recordings. For example, he says when you smile specifically concentrate on raising your cheekbones; this will make your eyes sparkle. Another one is to overemphasize everything including your words, excitement and gesture. I enjoyed the section on business cycles and deciding what you’re: goals, strategy, action, and rapid contingency plans are. Remember, it is never to late to start on your goals and Eric gives a fantastic example of this! Here are a few of my favorite quotes from this section:
“If the majority was always right, then everybody would be rich.” ~ Brian Billick
“If you think you can do a thing or think you can’t do a thing, you’re right.” Henry Ford
“Leadership is a journey, not a destination. It is a marathon, not a sprint. It is a process, not an outcome.” ~ John Donahoe
People
In this section, Eric talks about how our network is our currency; so we should invest in them and help them out if they need it. Your network should feel as though they are cared for. He talks about how greatness is never achieved alone, and we all need support sometime or another. I love this one because I can truly say my mentors were the angels in my own life. Just as a side note, Eric mentioned to make sure your Linked-In profile was at a 100%. This is a great tactic to use: make sure you find influencers that interest you instead of waiting for followers to find you. My favorite part was when he went into confidence, and how that is a magnetic force to attract followers! Here are my favorite quotes from this section:
“Pushing a company agenda on social media is like hurling water balloons at a porcupine.” @equalman
“People want to be associated with confident individuals. Confident individuals are decisive, avoid self-promotion (others promote them), view everything as an opportunity, and are generous in their compliments.”
“…but the concept of ensuring we surround ourselves with the right people, especially when we experience success…”
Well, that’s it folks, this is what Eric calls S.T.A.M.P., and it is worth living by. I hope you enjoyed this review, and a “digital hug” goes out to you!
P.S. You will have to read his book to find out what a “digital hug” means!
