#NerdsUnite: They’re talking nerdy baby (From Creative Quirk to Content Superpower Ft. Jen Friel) 

Alrite, this is the true meaning of #NerdsUnite … here’s a really honest conversation with two very very dear and long time friends, Mark and Adam.

Adam, I met first, as I ousted him as Mayor of Foursquare for his own building. Adam then introduced me to Mark, who then BRILLIANTLY starred in the Talk Nerdy To Me™ stage show.

Mark is in the furry vest.

This is me in the furry hat (aka spirithood) with Adam at the Wired Cafe Comic Con hang.

To say we go back is an understatement, they both have a very special place in my heart.

Here are our hearts (and brains) chatting to each other:

And for those who prefer the written word … here are the highlights from our chat:

• Jen was diagnosed with Synesthesia, which explains why her GIF game is unmatched.
• Discovering her diagnosis (including being on the spectrum) helped her understand her differences and develop her strengths.
• The challenge in modern work culture is that it’s hard to understand yourself and be confident enough to discuss it with your team.
• Whether a traditional employee or self-employed, you must communicate your needs and non-negotiables to function in your role.
• If someone can’t respect your needs (non-negotiables), you’re in the wrong environment.
• Transparency in the workplace is heading in the right direction, especially around salaries; it’s eye-opening and leads to better conversations in the professional realm.
• Creatives experienced levels of freedom for years (think artists and producers) the rest of the organization didn’t witness until remote work.
• Creative work naturally aligns with results-driven work versus timed work.
• We have started to build workspaces where everyone is themselves and happy. Working from home helps people develop their vibe. The corporate latter is long gone.
• Managers can create an environment where creatives can “work weird” if they wish; delivering on their promises and responsibilities is most important.
• Have you thought about using social media as a utility? For example, focus less on followers and more on ‘how can I get what you want?’
• Everything starts in the margins and becomes mainstream; think “blog” or “influencer.”
• TikTok induces a robust sensory response for people, more so than any other platform.
• The big question: Do you spend more time on the “Following” tab or the “for you” tab on TikTok?
• You can use TikTok for many things: to entertain, educate, ask questions, deliver news, etc.
• If TikTok feels overwhelming, try “training” the algorithm for your content-viewing pleasure; spend time watching what you like and swipe past the stuff you don’t.

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