So, would you be interested in joining the team?

Obviously, you must be well-versed in computers and technology otherwise you’re going to have a hard time (pretty obvious). However, I am not limiting this to hardware geeks and techs. Perhaps you closely follow developments in web-based software or social media. Perhaps you are a die-hard Mac fanatic. Perhaps you a heavy gamer and want to help people in that area? Technology has progressed way past the point of fiddling with motherboards and I would like PCMech to reflect that.

You must be a decent writer. That probably goes without saying. However, I don’t expect or demand formal writing. As you can probably tell, our writing style here at PCMech is pretty conversational. So, as long as you can write easy-to-follow, interesting articles that will help our audience, you’re qualified.

I want to make sure you understand, as well, that this is NOT an employment position with my company. You will remain fully independent and the time demands will be minimal. You write when you want. As time and your interest allow, perhaps you can evolve into a regular contributor to the site. That is my goal.

As for pay, this will be addressed once I get a feel for your work. It will be on a per-post basis and you must accept Paypal. If you’re trying to make a living here, look elsewhere. I’ve seen too many people who way overvalue their blog posts. I can write one of these things in 20-30 minutes, so let’s be real. So, I’m looking for genuine interest – people for whom this is a hobby. People who just enjoy immersing themselves in tech and the tech community. Regular writers to this site will develop a following. So, this should be fun, not a J-O-B. Fair?

So, if you are interested in giving this a try, here’s what I want you to do:

1. Write a blog post for PCMech. Please don’t contact me asking for ideas. If you are a reader of this site, you know what we talk about. Just write what you enjoy, and make it web-ready.
2. Put the post into an HTML file (please, no Word documents.). Text files is OK.
3. Email it to editor –at- pcmech.com.

No guarantees that I’ll post what you write. Obviously, I have to review it. And please ensure proper spelling, punctuation and grammar. Colloquial grammar is OK, however if the post is full of gross mistakes, I’m just going to send it back.

Here are a few posts which may be helpful to you from my other blog:

• 50 Rapid Fire Tips For Power Blogging
• A Blogger’s Checklist for Guest Posting On Other Blogs
• Everything You Need To Know About Writing Blog Headlines
• The 10 Minute Blog Post

I look forward to hearing from you.

Post from: PCMech. Helping Normal People Get Their Geek On And Live The Digital Lifestyle.

Want To Become Part of The PCMech Team?

In short, there are two very different aspects to David Risley. I am the founder of PCMech, a tech site (obviously). However, I am also known online as a professional blogger, one who teaches people how to build up online businesses based around blogging. The audiences are very different, and I would venture to say that a good chunk of my PCMech.com readers have zero interest in blogging. Am I right?

So, from now on, all PCMech-related posts will be sent to the @pcmech Twitter account. If you want to easily keep up with what’s happening with PCMech.com, keep up with what’s happening in technology without following anything related to blogging and marketing, then go follow @pcmech on Twitter.

Over on @davidrisley, I will continue to tweet about blogging as well as my own personal tweets. If you wish to interact with me personally, you will need to continue to follow @davidrisley. On a related note, if you want to interact with Rich, follow him @richmenga.

Not Using Twitter Yet?

What are you waiting for?

Twitter is the fastest growing communications platform in the history of the Internet. It is growing AMAZINGLY fast, and the idea of “tweeting” is quickly becoming as common as email. This is not a fad. At this point, calling Twitter a fad would be like putting you several years back and calling email a fad. It just isn’t.

If you are still in the boat of just not understanding Twitter, I invite you to download my free Twitter Manual. This PDF document gives you the in’s and out’s on how to use Twitter and why it even matters in the scheme of things. The PDF is completely free and you don’t need to opt into a mailing list or anything to get it. Just grab it.

I’ll see you on Twitter, my friends.

Post from: PCMech. Helping Normal People Get Their Geek On And Live The Digital Lifestyle.

Follow PCMech on Twitter

My wife and I have enjoyed our vacation. We took a lot of photos and video, much of which I’ll be sharing online in the days after I get back to the office. We both ate WAY too much. We’ve enjoyed the shows. In St. Marten, we had the opportunity to go sailing on a multi-million dollar racing sailboat. Had a blast!

So, I’ve connected to the Internet via the satellite connection on this ship to gently remind you that our special 2008 pricing on the PCMech Premium is about to end. I’m on my way back now, and as promised, when I get back into my office, I am completely shutting down registration to the program while I re-work some things to institute my changes for the new program in 2009. When I re-launch it (probably within 2-3 weeks), the price will be higher than it is now.

Time is running short. We’ve had a LOT of people (much more than I anticipated) sign up in the days since I left town. I’ve been checking in periodically from our ship cabin and I’ve been very pleased with the amount of people making the wise move and signing up. I’m confident that you’ll kick yourself in the butt later if you don’t sign up during this limited time frame.

Sure, you’ll be able to get in after I re-launch. And it’ll be a good deal then, too. But, right now, it’s insanely cheap.

With that, I leave you and return back to my cruise. From somewhere in the Caribbean, signing off.

Click Here To Sign Up Before I Shut It Off

Post from: PCMech. Helping Normal People Get Their Geek On And Live The Digital Lifestyle.

Live From The Caribbean [Video]

First, here are the three videos I’ve done this week already:

1. Feedback from PCMech Members [Video #1]
2. Explanation of PCMech Membership Program [Video #2]
3. Audience Interrogation – PCMech Membership Program [Video #3]

And, today, here is the fourth video. Below this video, I’ll explain where we’re heading and what’s going to happen.

OK, so in summary, here is what we’re doing differently:

1. The membership system is going to be re-designed so that members will have no problem finding all of the members-only material that we have in our system. We have a LOT of it, but I’m also aware that PCMECH has over 4,000 articles and it might be a little hard finding the stuff which is exclusive to our premium members. That’s about to change.
2. Rich and I are going to soon begin doing videos for members. Lots of videos. Like, almost every single day (except weekends). These videos will only be available right here on PCMECH.COM. I will be covering all kinds of topics, from computer instruction, software, tips, optimization, right on into the realm of internet business, marketing, blogging, and all kinds of various ways that you can make money with your computer and the Internet. And, no, this is NOT going to be exclusive only to people who already know some of the ropes. Even if you have no earthly idea how to make any money on the Internet, you will be able to learn with these videos.
3. I will be launching a members only help desk. If you have a question or need specific help, you can submit your question to our help desk. We will either answer your question in video form so all members can benefit, or we’ll send you an email response.

All of this is on top of everything we’ve been doing in 2008.

I have been doing a lot of video over on David Risley dot com. I’ve gotten it down to almost a science. I can produce a lot of video quickly now. On top of that, video is a superior way of learning. You can SEE me. I can much more accurately convey thoughts and ideas in video form.

2009 has the potential to be a hugely successful year or a very rocky one. The economic situation means that it will be a make-break point for many. Our weekend surveys of PCMech readers indicated STRONGLY that the overriding concerns out there are job security and money. 

And I intend to help.

For more information about the NEW membership program, go here to see our new, improved signup page where you can read all about it.

Lastly, as I said, I will be on a cruise next week. During the period I am gone, you can sign up for our PCMech Premium program at the 2008 level pricing. And your subscription rate will remain in effect even after I increase the price. So, you should sign up. And you should do it right away. When I get back, I will be turning registration OFF for everybody while I get busy re-working our system for the 2009 changes.

So, there you go! And, off you go to get the juicy details.

Post from: PCMech. Helping Normal People Get Their Geek On And Live The Digital Lifestyle.

2009 Changes to PCMech Membership Program

I get asked everything from the usual questions, to questions about whether I’m a scam. I take them all.

Here is the video:

And as a refresher, here are the first two videos:

1. Feedback from PCMech Members [Video #1]
2. Explanation of PCMech Membership Program [Video #2]

Tomorrow, you’re going to see a new page talking about the benefits of our membership program as we head into 2009. And you already know that PCMech University will now be known as PCMech Premium.

I’m asking you to join our program. There will not be a discounted special tomorrow, so what you pay today is what you will pay as long as you remain a member. And, as you will find out tomorrow, the current rate is way too cheap and you’re getting a KILLER deal. I’m just saying.

Post from: PCMech. Helping Normal People Get Their Geek On And Live The Digital Lifestyle.

Audience Interrogation – PCMech Membership Program

In this video, I explain my philosophy behind this membership program. You’ll also get a little view into my office and my house (there is a reason behind it ).

So, meet the OTHER side of Dave!

So, as you can see, this membership program does BOTH. It is a reflection of my approach to technology. I am the ultimate geek, but I use my computer and all this stuff to improve my life. This year, using my computer and the Internet, I was able to get my online business to bring in over $140,000.

Now, as we head into 2009, a direct survey of you – the readers – tells me that the overriding concerns as we head into this next year are job security and money. So, I intend to help with that – from the viewpoint of a computer nerd.

I hope that explains a little better what this program is all about.

If you want to sign up, do so now. As you’ll find out on Friday, it would behoove you to sign up for our program this week or next. I’m just saying.

Post from: PCMech. Helping Normal People Get Their Geek On And Live The Digital Lifestyle.

Explanation of PCMech Membership Program [Video #2]

Now, this is the first of 4 videos I will be posting this week. It all leads up to some big changes with our program for 2009. As a small example of the changes we’ll be making, the program will no longer be called PCMech University. It will be called simply PCMech Premium. I’ll explain more about that on Friday.

For now, here is the video:

BTW, if you decide you want to sign up for our program this week, don’t worry, you will not be missing out on any specials. So, sign up with full confidence that you’re making a good decision. You’ll find out why on Friday!

Post from: PCMech. Helping Normal People Get Their Geek On And Live The Digital Lifestyle.

Feedback from PCMech Members [Video #1]

I first got a PCMech e-mail about 4 months ago. 2 months later I signed up for Gold Membership. I decided that I want to work at home with my Internet business. So far I have 2 customers(I think that is great) and I am trying to apply all the resources, advice, etc. to start building my business. A month ago I got married(my second marriage). My wife has been receiving medicaid for her and her two boys and SSI for her youngest son. After we married, we wanted to do the right thing, so we went to report the extra income in the household. The case worker was screening me and asked me what was my occupation. Although I am a student and make a little income through my banquet server job I told her I was an Internet Entrepreuner(did I spell that right?) well anyway she kind of laugh and said “Is that a real Job”. Since then I am absolutely driven to make my Internet business work and through PCMech I know I can do it!! So far the Medicaid benefits have not been removed from my wife, but I sure would like to go back in about 6 months or a year and tell that case worker that my wife and step kids no longer need public assistance because I am doing just fine with my real Internet business. Thanks Dave for PCMech!! I will keep you up to date on this story.

Very inspiring, Miguel. You’re working hard and striving for success on the Internet. That’s fantastic. I’m proud of you and will do all I can do help in the coming year.

I have HUGE plans for the premium membership program of PCMech as we move into 2009. This week, I am going to share with you what I’m doing and where we’re heading.

Over the course of the next few days, I’m going to release a series of videos. By the end of the week, you’ll know a lot more about the premium program and what’s happening to it.

There are a lot of people like Miguel out there, and based on survey feedback gotten over the weekend, the overriding concern of 2009 is job security and money. People want to make more money. So, I got it! And we’ll deliver – all without losing track of the fact that this is a computer site. Don’t worry, geeks, PCMech is not going all “make money” on you, but I’m going to give people what they want, too.

But, more tomorrow.

Post from: PCMech. Helping Normal People Get Their Geek On And Live The Digital Lifestyle.

Story From a PCMech University Member

Time for our next PCMech Giveaway! This time, I have another awesome computer case to giveaway. It is the Ultra Products Grid ATX computer case. Here is some information on the case, direct from Ultra Products:

The Ultra Grid features an impressive exterior design, implementing a stealth black finish a cool mesh front bezel. The side of the front bezel supports audio input/output jacks as well as two USB ports.The door conceals all but one drive bay, but opening the magnetically latched front door exposes all four 5.25" bays and two 3.5" bays. The interior of the Grid supports full sized ATX, microATX and AT motherboards, has rolled edges and can house up to seven 3.5" (5 internal, 2 internal/external) and four 5.25" drives utilizing a fully tool-less/screw-less mechanism. The side panel features an Intel TAC 1.1 compatible CPU duct and VGA vent. Grid also comes with a front 120MM intake fan and 120MM exhaust fan. Power is provided by Ultra’s V-Series 500W power supply.

So, here is my video showing the case:

So, here is what I’d like you to do in order to enter the contest giveaway for this case:

1. Become a friend of mine on Facebook. Click here to view my Facebook profile.
2. Become a fan of PCMech on Facebook. Click here to view the PCMech fan page.
3. Post a note to the “Wall” of the PCMech fan page to let the world know why you read PCMech.com. Just scroll down to the bottom of the fan page to see the wall.

That’s all you have to do! Now, there are a couple other things you can do if you’re so inclined. If you really think PCMech is just, you know, AWESOME – then here’s a couple extras:

1. Share with your Facebook friends the PCMech fan page and let them know what we’re doing here. If you know any family or friends who may need some help with computers or are just interested in technology, send them over!
2. Follow me on Twitter. Click here to view me (David Risley) on Twitter.

Alright, so why Facebook? I have been pretty vocal about the important of networking online. Expanding your networks is just smart – especially  with the economy as it is. Your social network can lead to opportunities you may never have thought of. So, by connecting with me and the other PCMech readers on Facebook, you can expand your network. Secondly, Facebook allows me to have a little more personal connection with my readers. You guys will find out more about me, and I’ll be able to find out more about you.

I will announce the winner of this contest on Wednesday, 12/17/08. The first announcement of the winner will be done on our live show at PCMech LIVE, which airs on our Ustream channel every Wednesday night at 8 PM EST. Rich and I talk geeky tech with the audience as well as answer your computer questions from 8-10. On that Wednesday, I will announce the winner live on the air. If you are unable to be on our live show, then just sign up for our PCMech LIVE mailing list for showtime notifications. I will announce the winner to that mailing list immediately after the program.

Shipping is on me, so this is truly free to the winner.

May the best geek win!

Post from: PCMech. Helping Normal People Get Their Geek On And Live The Digital Lifestyle.

PCMech Giveaway – Ultra Products Case

UPDATE 11/29 10:35AM – The Black Friday Special is over. Prices have been returned to normal. If you were not able to get in on our program during the special, rest assured that our monthly program is MORE than worth it at the current rate. In fact, I am even pondering a price increase starting in 2009 because I don’t want to undervalue what we’re doing. So, I encourage you to take a look and get involved.

===================

Subscribers to our newsletter knew this was coming. And today is the day: Black Friday. The day stores everywhere mark down their prices. The day where people looking for deals can go nuts.

And, the day where PCMech is going to give you some killer deals as well…

OK, so here are the bullet points:

• EVERYTHING in the PCMech Store is marked down 30%, all day.
• All University memberships are marked down 20%, all day. Memberships purchased today at the reduced rate will be good at that reduced rate for the life of your membership – even if (or when, I should say) the price goes up.
• No coupon codes are necessary.

This special ends bright and early Saturday morning, as soon as I get up in the morning and put all the prices back to normal.

University Memberships (Today Only)

Click to learn more about PCMech University and sign up today.

NOTE: Today’s price will be reflected on the sign-up page.

Store Products (Today Only)

Click To Visit the PCMech Store

OK, guys. Don’t waste time. Now’s the time to take advantage. The prices go back to normal Saturday morning.

Post from: PCMech. Helping Normal People Get Their Geek On And Live The Digital Lifestyle.

PCMech Black Friday Specials (And Video)