Vaynerchuk's Way

By: Chris Handoyo

MC Week Main Story
Session: Making a Name for Yourself with Social Media

What does famous, rich, successful and a no BS attitude all have in common? Gary Vaynerchuk.

Gary Vaynerchuk, author of "Crush It," spoke on Wednesday in the Alkek teaching theater to Texas State students and faculty members. Vaynerchuk explained the true meaning of success, what differentiate him among other entrepreneurs, and how to use social media to its fullest.

Vaynerchuck, originally from Russia, came from a very Eastern European household and was an entrepreneur from an early age. As an eight-grader, Vaynerchuk was already making more $1,000 a week selling baseball cards. Vaynerchuk became very passionate about wine and established his own brand by the age of 30. He credited much of his success from the use of social media.

Vaynerchuk admits that he is not a good writer, but is good at communicating with people through the use of social media. According to him, it’s all about listening and not talking. He views himself as a storyteller with the likes of Vince McMahon or Biggie Smalls.

Vaynerchuk said that the Internet is a much underestimated form of mass communication and should be used more to its potential.

“The Internet is Lebron James 2.0,” said Vaynerchuk. “It has allowed everyone in this room to use a platform at zero cost.”

Vaynerchuk also sees Twitter and Facebook as the greatest media tools at the moment. “Twitter and Facebook will stay because of the great entrepreneurs that are running it,” said Vaynerchuk. ”Facebook wants to be your identity online.” Vaynerchuk even believes that Twitter is going to be the next Google.

Although Vaynerchuk gave many advices on being successful, most of his advice always leads to the same direction; always do what you are passionate about because everybody has a shot. “If you love it that much, do it,” said Vaynerchuk.

Dave Nolan, a professor at Texas State, said that students will find many of Vaynerchuk’s advice to be useful.

“Find your passion and do what you love,” said Nolan. “Don’t be stuck in a cubical for the rest of your life.”

After the presentation, Vaynerchuk managed to keep things interesting by giving several students $15 for asking him questions.

Brandon Jones, a student studying mass communication, really enjoyed Vaynerchuk’s advices and attitude during the whole presentation.

“Yea, he is easily the best speaker I’ve seen,” said Jones.

Please visit the following Web sites for more information:
http://twitter.com/garyvee
http://crushitbook.com/
http://garyvaynerchuk.com/
http://www.facebook.com/
http://tv.winelibrary.com/