I am deeply honored and excited by the response to the launch of my personal branding workshop series. What has been a hope and dream for the past year is officially becoming a reality on Monday, April 16, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. PST at Union One Square in Seattle, WA. This workshop series is intended to bridge the gap between the discourse around “How To Promote Yourself” and “How To Find Yourself.” Apparently there is a need for this type of stuff (The event sold out before I had time to promote it).
They will take place monthly (3 months on; 1 month off) every third Monday. They are designed to be cohesive enough that you can gain by completing the series, yet modular enough that you won’t be lost if you attend only one. More details and specifics are to come. I’m also working on building a live online version, a pre-recorded webinar version, and a breakfast/luncheon series.
More free stuff?
Currently, the on-site workshops are free to attend. If you’ve read any of my previous work, you’ve probably noticed that I like to give stuff away. Why would I do this? Why would I be willing to put in the time needed to research these topics, find out what people want and need, write the documentation, print the materials, buy the food, etc. and give it away? First and foremost, I want to ensure that this type of opportunity is not denied to anyone who wants access. I hope to work with marginalized populations who are typically prevented from nourishing network opportunities, education, and the confidence needed to develop their dreams. Secondly, I love learning. One of the best ways to make things stick is by teaching it. Plus, I’ll learn just as much from the people in attendance. Thirdly, when you do good things, you tend to be around good people. I’ve already felt enriched with the community of people who are working to effect positive change out there where they are.
Financial compensation will come in the form of personalized consultations, speaking arrangements, etc. So, professionally, this has the potential to be just as good for me as for anybody looking to polish their resume. At the end of the day, I want to do something that I can feel good about.
If you’d like to join the conversation, stay informed, and join the community please like the Facebook Page and follow @michaelbmaine and @menrvalabs on Twitter. You can also sign up for the Menrva Labs newsletter here.
Special Thanks
Before I conclude this blog post, I’d like to extend my huge, heart-felt appreciation for some of the people who helped make this possible:
Fortunato Vega—Thank you for being so gracious as to offer the venue at no charge so that I can afford to offer these events for free.
Mary Kay Chess—You have been a tremendously positive force in my world these past few months. Thank you for teaching me that it’s okay to just be.
Interviewees—To everyone I’ve ever interviewed for Menrva Labs. Thank you for re-inspiring me with each and every one of your stories. It’s people like you that remind me of the power we each hold to be the change we want to see in the world.