Socialtext

I’m happy to announce that as of today, I’ve joined Socialtext to head up business development. Those that have read this weblog for a while know that early on I was particularly excited about the potential that weblogs represent for business use. Nearly two years ago, I wrote the following as I started to recognize the benefits of business blogging:

Just like a few years ago I would go out of my way to reward companies who had web sites, I am pre-disposed to work with people who have recognized the value of contributing to the weblog community – and as the blog model gains momentum, that will only get easier.

Indeed. Just over a year ago, I was fortunate enough to have lunch with Socialtext CEO Ross Mayfield, who talked to me about his plans for Socialtext: combine the weblog concept with easily editable web pages (aka “wikis”) and you’ll have a platform for lightweight and powerful group collaboration.

I’ve been a user of Socialtext for several months — and part of the reason I’m so excited about this opportunity is that I’ve seen the dramatic increase in group productivity that results from using such a powerful tool. The other reason I’m excited is that I’m joining a talented, smart and passionate group of people. I feel very fortunate to join them so early in this journey, and can’t wait to see where the ride takes us.

For those that don’t know Socialtext, it’s a very flexible application (for some customer stories visit here). Groups who need to ensure everyone is on the same page can derive tremendous benefits from using Socialtext. If you want to learn more, feel free to drop me a line and I’ll follow up with you shortly (that’ll give me enough time to work on my elevator pitch!).

I won’t be moving anytime soon — part of the reason for the flurry of activity in the basement last week was to get an office area ready for me to use (alas, it will be ready on Wednesday. But we’re close!).

I want to thank so many of you who contacted me privately during my job search process. Not only do I have my blog to thank for my new position, I have it to thank for the dozens of remarkable people who are most definitely part of my circle of friends — most of whom I’ve never even met. To all of you who wrote with suggestions, names, and wishes of good luck, thank you!