Back from Ad Tech in New York last week. Another excellent show, as always (disclosure: I am a prior Ad Tech Advisory Board member). Most notable for me was the extent to which savvy brand managers are now adopting and using social media.

My friend and colleague Andy Sernovitz is presenting a great social media and marketing seminar. It features excellent examples of successful social media implementations, and shows you how to apply the tips and best practices that i talk about in "Social Media Marketing: An Hour a Day". Among the topics covered are these essentials:

• Measuring ROI
• Obtaining buy-in from management
• Managing legal and HR issues

And that's just for starters! With brands like Home Depot, Wal-Mart, and UPS there is something here for everyone. Even better, you can save some money: I've got a special promo offer for you that helps me promote my new book, "Social Media Marketing: An Hour a Day". It gets you a deal on the admission and *free copy of the book* at the same time. Here's what you do:

1. Go to http://www.gaspedal.com/blogwell
2. When you sign up, use the discount code davebookdeal (all one word)

That's it. In the single click of a mouse you'll save 15% off the seminar fee, get a free copy of my book, and be on your way to developing and implementing a solid social media plan.

I was asked recently about my passion in social media by fellow Austinite and author Scott Allen. My quick answer: I wanted my son, now 7, to grow up in a world with less interruption and access to better information with regard to making a smart choices.

My new book, "Social Media Marketing: An Hour a Day," is for marketers wanting to combine social media skills and expertise with their existing, established capabilities. Much of the book is based on my experience as a marketer and product manager, positions where success is largely dictated by what others, outside your direct span of control, think of you. That is, more or less, how the Social Web works.