Mitch, thanks for this topic, so relevant to marketing today. 

My business is soon to be launched and coming from old school marketing, I felt it was important to learn as much as possible about this topic so, believing knowledge is power ... or at least a step in the right direction ... I set out to learn as much as possible.  That really means, I'm booked learned with very little practical application to date.  However, I can point people to some fabulous resources.

For up to the minute news about what's happening in Social Media check out Michael Stelzner's site www.SocialMediaExaminer.  He's an excellent journalist and interviewer.  This site is filled with tips, how-to's, interviews and articles from top-notch marketers around the world. 

For those people who are Facebook fans, MariSmith is a dream expert at www.MariSmith.com.  This is a lady in strong demand with all of the techy know-how, tricks and tips for the beginner to the expert.  What a delight!

If you are seeking in-depth knowledge and a well laid out and organized program, check out David Riklan's Social Media University at www.SelfGrowthMarketing.com.  What a team!   This incredible program is well worth your investment for the serious Social Media marketer. 

For somebody who has 'been there' for years and is highly respected check out Leeza Barnes at www.MarketingFit.com.  She will put you in touch with forums, conferences, interviews, tips, what works and what doesn't.  She presents some fine strategies for the success oriented business owner.  Take a look.

You will discover many others.  However, there is one thing to remember:  You don't have to be good to start, you just have to start to be good. 

Don't be afraid of taking that first step on your path to success!

Happy Marketing!

Annalea Cornell