Wisdom and the ability to see the big picture and the future – that is what I look for when determining whose advice is worth seeking out, considering and then implementing.

Brian Solis is widely known and respected for exhibiting just those qualities and much has been written about him.

Instead of sharing his usual bio, I offer these snippets of his wisdom:

“Social Media is much bigger than we give it credit for. It’s not just about PR or just about marketing.” ~ Brian Solis ~

“Please Repeat: Influence is NOT Popularity“

“How do you become a thought leader? It starts with *being* a thought leader and then connecting the dots back to you.” -@briansolis

“I believe new media gives us the opportunity to change the world for the better.”

“Solis defined influence as “the ability to inspire desirable and measurable outcomes” and that those involved in using social media for their organizations must not lose sight of this.”

“See through the noise and figure out where the opportunities lie…”

Just how well known is Brian? He has his own Wikipedia page, interviews all over the Net and numerous videos on YouTube. (How many is difficult to tell because he is so popular that many people tag their own videos with his name too!)

Although this 7 minute video is from a Keynote he gave in July 2009 hosted by Honda Motor Corp. and SoCal Action Sports Network, his talk about Social Media to that group is still highly relevant today.

Be sure to watch the slides instead of just listening or you will miss insights such as “Never Underestimate the Power of Stupid People in Large Groups” ~ Andrew Keen ~

Want more insights from Brian? Part 2 and Part 6 of that Keynote are also available on YouTube. Other Brian Solis videos include tips on this Word of Mouth Marketing video and an excellent Basic Social Media Video.

Brian is a popular speaker at Social Media and Word of Mouth Marketing Events including Influence People‘s upcoming Email Social Media Marketing Event September 17, 2010 in San Francisco.

There may still be Early Bird Tickets available to hear what innovative methods Brian and many other leading marketing experts, email companies and brands recommend to maximize your Social Media results.  Use that link or enter discount code iem17 to save an additional 10% off your ticket.