Ask forgiveness, not permission. But make sure you bring your results with you.

We'll continue to see more and more brands integrate social causes, charitable components and environmental issues as underlying themes to their campaigns and messaging. Humans connect with humans after all, and brands are using this as a point of connection to engage with their audience, especially charity-minded Generation Y.

I was with Shaq at his home the day he retired. It was innovative for him to become the media and announce via social media that he was retiring.

Social media is the ultimate equalizer. It gives a voice and a platform to anyone willing to engage.

By providing memorable social media customer service, companies not only create deeper connections with consumers, but they glean valuable insights on how to improve their products or services.

Universities want to recruit the students that they believe will best represent the university while in school and beyond. Students with a robust social media presence and clearly defined personal brand stand to become only more influential.

Social media provides an avenue to build relationships with media outlets and have an ongoing relationship with reporters.