So I posted yesterday about how some companies are missing the boat for what is more than likely one of two reasons. (If you want the reasons, hit that article here.) But just like we were taught as children, when we point a finger at someone we subsequently point 3 back at ourselves. (try it!)

Today's article is a challenge to anyone lurking or spectating. The challenge is to those that read blogs, watch peer-generated videos and/or listen to podcasts but don't participate or contribute. And by contribute I mean on any level... an occasional comment or ranking of a post or audio bit isn't really how someone gets engaged... it's only how they start.

I'd like to challenge everyone (using the below video) to treat October as the unofficial National Networking Month. Head out to your favorite social network - whether it is professional or casual, built around a theme, internal to your work, or just a favorite blog - and participate. Contribute.

Take part in the conversation - and start a few of your own. If you're feeling really crazy, start your own blog on any number of places that provide the service for free. (www.MyTalentNetwork.com is a good start!)

Pick your favorite network or site - and jump in. Feeling super shy about it? Create an alternate identity to get yourself started. This way some of your reservations surrounding the actions of posting your own thoughts or opinions can dissolve away until you're comfortable with your Online voice.

So in the spirit of one of my favorite months - I present this October Networking challenge with a video - hosted by one of my favorite 'scary movie' characters - Jigsaw from the SAW series of movies.


How will you meet the challenge? Will you start by commenting on this blog? Will you head to Facebook.com and join a group? Will you enter a blog entry on your MySpace page? If you're already a contributor - will you encourage others to take part? You've 31 days...

Originally posted here... (so pass it along.)