Public Relations & Social Marketing Insight

If you were asked to name the top thought leaders in marketing today–the 10 marketers you’d definitely advise others to follow on social media–how would you proceed?

You’d probably start by looking at those you’re connected with on the major social networks, then do some additional research. Perhaps you’d look at existing “top” lists from other sites. You’d develop a “long list” of worthy experts, then gradually narrow it down based on followers, level of engagement, quality of posts, and other factors. You’d carefully develop your final list, possibly using a method like pairwise ranking.

But—what if you had to answer on the spot? What if you had to respond immediately, or within just a few minutes? You’d forget some important names, of course, but your answers would reveal those you keep top of mind.

Who are the Rising Social Media Stars to watch? These are the marketers, bloggers and podcasters making an impact around the world.

So, with the help of some friends, I decided to create a different kind of list. I wanted to recognize people in a way that was not derived from who could get out the vote or who was cozy with a corporate sponsor. I wanted to create a list that would celebrate amazing people who do not normally show up on lists. I wanted to find the (dramatic music) Future Gurus.

I asked some of the people who are regulars on these “best of” lists to recommend a few people who they believe are on the rise. Who is impressing them, inspiring them, and challenging them?

Who are the unknown stars who will be rocking the social media conferences two or three years from now?...