Ten Questions with Andre Jensen
2 Comments Published by Jen on Thursday, October 25, 2007 at 10/25/2007.
1. You market search engines, or something like that right? Tell us about your job - what do you do?
I'm not sure what my actual title is anymore but some go by Search Strategist. I strategize online marketing campaigns to help web sites achieve their full potential in the search engine results pages. How’s that for a one liner? Or - I help web sites get into the search engine results for targeted keyword phrases that their potential visitors/customers are searching for in order to turn those search engine users into paying customers. Wow, that’s pretty lame eh?
I have worked for some of the top SEO / SEM agencies. I started off at Multimedia Marketing Group (MMG) which is now Outrider. After MMG and the dot bust, I moved into a small company called Marketleap (you may have used their free tools at www.marketleap.com) which was acquired by Digital Impact (an email marketing firm). 6 months later, Acxiom purchased Digital Impact.
Currently I am an independent contractor offering an outsourcing solution to SEO/SEM agencies that are having difficulty finding employees with search experience.
2. Where did you grow up?
Born in Beaverton, raised in Portland, grew up in the Army. I’ve been in Bend for 10 years.
3. Tell me about the best meal you ever had... and the worst!
I’m spoiled when it comes to food these days. I love the stuff. Trying to pin point the best meal is difficult but I think one of the best has to have been the day I perfected my baby back ribs. I’ve grilled for a long time and have had a smoker for a couple years. This past summer I smoked the best ribs ever and perfected my dry rub recipe. Honestly, for being dry ribs (without sauce) I have never had their equal.
Worst meal - Either my first meal of Basic Training in the US Infantry or the 3284 meals over the next three years. I think it’s a tie.
4. What was your first job?
I've worked odd jobs while I was a lad but my first job that the government knew about was working as a dishwasher at Holiday Park Plaza near Lloyd Center in Portland. It was a huge retirement home one block from home. Oh man, the dentures I found in someone's split pea soup that I had the responsibility of rinsing off and returning... maybe it was the very next meal I had that night that was my worst ever.
5. What were some of the crazy fads you remember, and which was your favorite?
Accessories! I always thought it was funny how many accessories the ladies would have from the jelly bracelets to the friendship keychains on their stone washed jean jackets. Growing up I never was big on fads. We didn't have much money so I was always wearing my older brother's handbydowns. Mostly toughskins pants.
My mom was aJazzercise Dancercise instructor... GREAT FAD!
6. Why are you a member of COWPU?
I remember writing to Jen as to why SEO/SEM was not in the description of COWPU and if it was ok for me to sit in on a meeting. I was really curious to hear how programmers and IT types discuss issues they have with web sites. In my field, I have to talk/deal with IT peeps, programmers, and wed developers all the time. Having this opportunity to bounce ideas off of and get information on how difficult certain things are is great for my understanding of that side.
7. What's your favorite thing about teaching?
Teaching Search Engine Strategies at COCC has been great for me. I used to have a huge fear of public speaking. So bad that in school I would turn in the written portion including the speech but I would refuse to actually speak. I would take the F on the speaking every time. Contacting COCC to teach was a way to force me to get over my fear as well as show the company I was working for that there was more to me.
Plus it gave us an opportunity to scope out any potential employees... a technique I still use for referring people to companies like Global Strategies or Acxiom Digital.
8. What is the most important thing you have learned?
Ever - 'Pay attention to detail' was beaten into me in the service and it has helped me throughout my career.
About teaching – Sloooow Doooown! I am pretty passionate about SES and helping local business owners to optimize their sites that I get to talking way too fast sometimes. I think I'm doing better these days.
9. What books are you reading?
Honestly, I don't read books. I have a copy of Gusto in the bathroom... does that count?
10. What advice would you give to a classroom of second graders?
Boogers are bad for you, playing video games can be a career, when you grow up – don't TP my house, it's never too soon to get your blog started (andrejr.com), wash your hands - alot.
Interviews of COWPU members are posted periodically (read: when Jen feels like doing it). Have an interesting question for a COWPU member? Want to be the subject of one of Jen's interviews? Join the group or come to a meeting... and tell Jen!
I'm not sure what my actual title is anymore but some go by Search Strategist. I strategize online marketing campaigns to help web sites achieve their full potential in the search engine results pages. How’s that for a one liner? Or - I help web sites get into the search engine results for targeted keyword phrases that their potential visitors/customers are searching for in order to turn those search engine users into paying customers. Wow, that’s pretty lame eh?
I have worked for some of the top SEO / SEM agencies. I started off at Multimedia Marketing Group (MMG) which is now Outrider. After MMG and the dot bust, I moved into a small company called Marketleap (you may have used their free tools at www.marketleap.com) which was acquired by Digital Impact (an email marketing firm). 6 months later, Acxiom purchased Digital Impact.
Currently I am an independent contractor offering an outsourcing solution to SEO/SEM agencies that are having difficulty finding employees with search experience.
2. Where did you grow up?
Born in Beaverton, raised in Portland, grew up in the Army. I’ve been in Bend for 10 years.
3. Tell me about the best meal you ever had... and the worst!
I’m spoiled when it comes to food these days. I love the stuff. Trying to pin point the best meal is difficult but I think one of the best has to have been the day I perfected my baby back ribs. I’ve grilled for a long time and have had a smoker for a couple years. This past summer I smoked the best ribs ever and perfected my dry rub recipe. Honestly, for being dry ribs (without sauce) I have never had their equal.
Worst meal - Either my first meal of Basic Training in the US Infantry or the 3284 meals over the next three years. I think it’s a tie.
4. What was your first job?
I've worked odd jobs while I was a lad but my first job that the government knew about was working as a dishwasher at Holiday Park Plaza near Lloyd Center in Portland. It was a huge retirement home one block from home. Oh man, the dentures I found in someone's split pea soup that I had the responsibility of rinsing off and returning... maybe it was the very next meal I had that night that was my worst ever.
5. What were some of the crazy fads you remember, and which was your favorite?
Accessories! I always thought it was funny how many accessories the ladies would have from the jelly bracelets to the friendship keychains on their stone washed jean jackets. Growing up I never was big on fads. We didn't have much money so I was always wearing my older brother's handbydowns. Mostly toughskins pants.
My mom was a
6. Why are you a member of COWPU?
I remember writing to Jen as to why SEO/SEM was not in the description of COWPU and if it was ok for me to sit in on a meeting. I was really curious to hear how programmers and IT types discuss issues they have with web sites. In my field, I have to talk/deal with IT peeps, programmers, and wed developers all the time. Having this opportunity to bounce ideas off of and get information on how difficult certain things are is great for my understanding of that side.
7. What's your favorite thing about teaching?
Teaching Search Engine Strategies at COCC has been great for me. I used to have a huge fear of public speaking. So bad that in school I would turn in the written portion including the speech but I would refuse to actually speak. I would take the F on the speaking every time. Contacting COCC to teach was a way to force me to get over my fear as well as show the company I was working for that there was more to me.
Plus it gave us an opportunity to scope out any potential employees... a technique I still use for referring people to companies like Global Strategies or Acxiom Digital.
8. What is the most important thing you have learned?
Ever - 'Pay attention to detail' was beaten into me in the service and it has helped me throughout my career.
About teaching – Sloooow Doooown! I am pretty passionate about SES and helping local business owners to optimize their sites that I get to talking way too fast sometimes. I think I'm doing better these days.
9. What books are you reading?
Honestly, I don't read books. I have a copy of Gusto in the bathroom... does that count?
10. What advice would you give to a classroom of second graders?
Boogers are bad for you, playing video games can be a career, when you grow up – don't TP my house, it's never too soon to get your blog started (andrejr.com), wash your hands - alot.
Interviews of COWPU members are posted periodically (read: when Jen feels like doing it). Have an interesting question for a COWPU member? Want to be the subject of one of Jen's interviews? Join the group or come to a meeting... and tell Jen!
Labels: interviews
We are hiring a Web Project Manager
We are a rapidly growing Internet start-up headquartered in downtown Bend, Oregon developing a Local Search Marketing Platform. If you are an experienced web producer or project manager, please keep reading....
We are looking for an organized web producer to project manage implementation of client websites. This position requires coordinating content scheduling, delivery and management as well as creating usability wire frames and information architecture. In addition to being in a client-facing role, the web producer will work closely with programmers and web designers to ensure that features of the various sites are top-notch.
Requirements
* Able to organize multiple tasks and priorities while acting as liaison between various stakeholders fostering collaboration
* Understanding of web usability and information architecture best practices and accessibility guidelines
* Good understanding of HTML, and CSS
* Strong interpersonal, analytical, and problem-solving skills to work with people at all levels
* Ability to build projects and site areas from the ground up; establishing relationships and processes
* Strong work ethic; extremely organized and detail oriented
* Ability to track program interdependencies, milestones and deliverables to ensure successful project implementation/deployment
* Thrive in a collaborative environment managing a deadline-driven production process working with technical staff & designers
* A self-motivated, detail-orientated individual with effective, proactive communications skills
* Ability to explain technical information to non-technical audience
What is in it for you:
* Work for an energetic, cutting edge start up company
* Opportunity for rapid growth
* Contribute new and innovative ideas
* Decent base salary, stock options, full benefits, and a chance to change the world.
Compensation depends on experience.
G5 offers a fast-pace work environment, competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a chance to change the world.
To apply, please email your resume to: info@G5searchmarketing.com or visit: http://www.g5searchmarketing.com/careers.html
--
Dan Hobin
CEO
G5 Search Marketing, Inc.
The Old Cigar Building
906 NW Harriman Street
Bend, OR 97701
541-317-3905
Read the COWPU job posting policy.
We are a rapidly growing Internet start-up headquartered in downtown Bend, Oregon developing a Local Search Marketing Platform. If you are an experienced web producer or project manager, please keep reading....
We are looking for an organized web producer to project manage implementation of client websites. This position requires coordinating content scheduling, delivery and management as well as creating usability wire frames and information architecture. In addition to being in a client-facing role, the web producer will work closely with programmers and web designers to ensure that features of the various sites are top-notch.
Requirements
* Able to organize multiple tasks and priorities while acting as liaison between various stakeholders fostering collaboration
* Understanding of web usability and information architecture best practices and accessibility guidelines
* Good understanding of HTML, and CSS
* Strong interpersonal, analytical, and problem-solving skills to work with people at all levels
* Ability to build projects and site areas from the ground up; establishing relationships and processes
* Strong work ethic; extremely organized and detail oriented
* Ability to track program interdependencies, milestones and deliverables to ensure successful project implementation/deployment
* Thrive in a collaborative environment managing a deadline-driven production process working with technical staff & designers
* A self-motivated, detail-orientated individual with effective, proactive communications skills
* Ability to explain technical information to non-technical audience
What is in it for you:
* Work for an energetic, cutting edge start up company
* Opportunity for rapid growth
* Contribute new and innovative ideas
* Decent base salary, stock options, full benefits, and a chance to change the world.
Compensation depends on experience.
G5 offers a fast-pace work environment, competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a chance to change the world.
To apply, please email your resume to: info@G5searchmarketing.com or visit: http://www.g5searchmarketing.com/careers.html
--
Dan Hobin
CEO
G5 Search Marketing, Inc.
The Old Cigar Building
906 NW Harriman Street
Bend, OR 97701
541-317-3905
Read the COWPU job posting policy.
Labels: jobs
October 2007 Meeting - Reminder!
0 Comments Published by Jen on Monday, October 22, 2007 at 10/22/2007.
Don't forget this month's meeting THIS THURSDAY, October 25, 2007 at 6:00pm!
Topic: Source Control with Subversion (by Ryan Miller)
Location: Deschutes Public Library, Staff Meeting Room (across from the Reference Desk), 601 N.W. Wall Street, Bend 97701
Click here for full info!
If you are interested in attending please contact Jen, or visit the page for this event at upcoming.org and click "I'm attending".
Agenda:
6:15pm - Announcements and door prizes
6:30pm - Presentation by Ryan Miller
8:00pm - Social at McMenamin's (O'Kanes)
Updated: This month we have some great raffle prizes! Bring a friend and each of you will get an extra ticket for a chance to win...
Topic: Source Control with Subversion (by Ryan Miller)
Location: Deschutes Public Library, Staff Meeting Room (across from the Reference Desk), 601 N.W. Wall Street, Bend 97701
Click here for full info!
If you are interested in attending please contact Jen, or visit the page for this event at upcoming.org and click "I'm attending".
Agenda:
6:15pm - Announcements and door prizes
6:30pm - Presentation by Ryan Miller
8:00pm - Social at McMenamin's (O'Kanes)
Updated: This month we have some great raffle prizes! Bring a friend and each of you will get an extra ticket for a chance to win...
- a Samsung WEP200 Bluetooth Headset
- a copy of Designing Web Navigation from O'Reilly
- an HP "Numbers Smart" Rubiks Cube
- an exclusive COWPU mug ("did you mean cowpie?") from Mug Revolution (our most popular prize)
Labels: meetings
Review - Head First Object-Oriented Analysis and Design
0 Comments Published by Jen on Thursday, October 11, 2007 at 10/11/2007.
Easy to Understand
I found this book to be quite an interesting and enjoyable experience considering the weighty topic and tendency for the material to be pretty dry. The Examples are well thought through and pointed. I would suggest it for anyone interested in OOP Design.
~Chris, COWPU Member
More reviews of Head First Object-Oriented Analysis and Design at O'Reilly
I found this book to be quite an interesting and enjoyable experience considering the weighty topic and tendency for the material to be pretty dry. The Examples are well thought through and pointed. I would suggest it for anyone interested in OOP Design.
~Chris, COWPU Member
More reviews of Head First Object-Oriented Analysis and Design at O'Reilly
Labels: "book reviews"
Excellent career opportunity in Bend, OR in a great work environment! Our client requires a SQL Server DBA for a full-time, salaried role.
Bend, OR, located in the central part of the state, offers unparalleled beauty, a dry sunny climate, and access to practically limitless recreational opportunities from golf to skiing to rock climbing and more.
The Database Administrator (DBA) performs general database administration, develops and monitors data extracts and imports to/from external data sources both inside and outside the company, maintains database security, and supports database development work including; data definition language (DDL) scripts, database objects and data as stored procedures, triggers, tables, and views. Additionally, the DBA identifies and analyzes database performance issues, evaluates application requirements and devises sound solutions/ improvements to business challenges based on the Company's common practice, data quality principles and industry standards.
QUALIFICATIONS:
DBAs are expected to be proficient in the use of the following tools:
DBAs are expected to be proficient in the following data-related tools:
DBAs are expected to be proficient in the following languages:
Desired skills:
Experience and Education:
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:
Microsoft Certifications a plus, but not required. [MCDBA, MCSE, other]
For more information please contact:
Caressa Gullikson
Senior Technical Recruiter
ProDX
cgullikson@prodx.com
503-914-6536 Direct
503-726-4600 Reception
800-545-6375 ext 4605 Toll-free
www.prodx.com
www.corsource.net
Read the COWPU job posting policy.
Bend, OR, located in the central part of the state, offers unparalleled beauty, a dry sunny climate, and access to practically limitless recreational opportunities from golf to skiing to rock climbing and more.
The Database Administrator (DBA) performs general database administration, develops and monitors data extracts and imports to/from external data sources both inside and outside the company, maintains database security, and supports database development work including; data definition language (DDL) scripts, database objects and data as stored procedures, triggers, tables, and views. Additionally, the DBA identifies and analyzes database performance issues, evaluates application requirements and devises sound solutions/ improvements to business challenges based on the Company's common practice, data quality principles and industry standards.
QUALIFICATIONS:
DBAs are expected to be proficient in the use of the following tools:
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Visio), Note Pad (for text editing), and Visual SourceSafe (source control)
- Data Transfer applications (FTP, SFTP, etc.)
- PGP applications
- Windows operating system administration tools
DBAs are expected to be proficient in the following data-related tools:
- SQL Server Enterprise Manager/Management Studio and SQL Management Objects
- SQL Query Analyzer/Query Editor
- SQL Maintenance Plans, SQL Profiler and Database Tuning Advisor
- SQLCMD
- DTS (Data Transformation Services)
- SQL Reporting Services
- Data modeling applications (Visio, Erwin)
- RedGate (Database comparison)
DBAs are expected to be proficient in the following languages:
- Transact-SQL
- Basic knowledge of Microsoft .NET development platform (C# preferable), JavaScript, and Visual Basic /VB Script
Desired skills:
- SSRS, MSSQL 2005, Oracle RDBMS, PL/SQL, sqlplus
- Backup systems /software
Experience and Education:
- Bachelor's degree in a technical field or equivalent experience.
- 7-10+ years related professional experience (database development/ design).
- Experience in developing, rolling out and supporting enterprise-ready, architecturally sound solutions.
- Knowledge of medical insurance concepts/terminology a plus, but not required.
LICENSES/CERTIFICATIONS:
Microsoft Certifications a plus, but not required. [MCDBA, MCSE, other]
For more information please contact:
Caressa Gullikson
Senior Technical Recruiter
ProDX
cgullikson@prodx.com
503-914-6536 Direct
503-726-4600 Reception
800-545-6375 ext 4605 Toll-free
www.prodx.com
www.corsource.net
Read the COWPU job posting policy.
Labels: jobs
Several job opportunities were brought to my attention by Anne McDonald (Professional Recruiter with McDonald Group, Inc). Click each title for more information and qualifications, or contact Anne if you have questions or wish to apply.
Senior Programmer
Senior Programmer for leading e-commerce retailer of performance outdoor gear and clothing
Programmer
Programmer for leading e-commerce retailer of performance outdoor gear and clothing
PHP Developer
PHP Developer for online software company that supports consumers in playing an active role in their Medicaid services management
Read the COWPU job posting policy.
Senior Programmer
Senior Programmer for leading e-commerce retailer of performance outdoor gear and clothing
Programmer
Programmer for leading e-commerce retailer of performance outdoor gear and clothing
PHP Developer
PHP Developer for online software company that supports consumers in playing an active role in their Medicaid services management
Read the COWPU job posting policy.
Labels: jobs
Reviewers needed for new releases!
0 Comments Published by Jen on Friday, October 5, 2007 at 10/05/2007.
MAKE has a few new books coming out this month and O'Reilly wants to get an
early start looking for reviewers. If you already have a review copy and haven't completed your writeup this would be a great time to finish up so you can get your hands on these new releases. Please let me know if you are interested in any of the following titles:
Making Things Talk
Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders
The Best of MAKE
Eccentric Cubicle
There's also a new issue of Make Magazine featuring "DIY Wheels"
If you happen to be in the Austin Area be sure to check out the Maker Faire October 20-21 at the Travis County Expo Center, Austin, Texas. The hours on Saturday are 10am-6pm and Sunday 10am-5pm. Learn more and register!
early start looking for reviewers. If you already have a review copy and haven't completed your writeup this would be a great time to finish up so you can get your hands on these new releases. Please let me know if you are interested in any of the following titles:
Making Things Talk
Illustrated Guide to Astronomical Wonders
The Best of MAKE
Eccentric Cubicle
There's also a new issue of Make Magazine featuring "DIY Wheels"
If you happen to be in the Austin Area be sure to check out the Maker Faire October 20-21 at the Travis County Expo Center, Austin, Texas. The hours on Saturday are 10am-6pm and Sunday 10am-5pm. Learn more and register!
Labels: "book reviews", announcements
Clean Technology Forum - October 9th 2007
According to the recent Energy Star report data servers accounted for 1.5% of total U.S. electricity consumption in 2006 (61 billion kWh). If current trends continue, this usage is expected to nearly double by 2011. Over 50% of companies do have green action plans for their data servers. All companies need to examine this topic since most people would agree that the cost of energy is certainly is not headed down. There are a variety of ways to help reduce the energy usage of those servers with virtualization being one of the least understood but most viable solutions.
Topic
Virtualization: Energy Efficiency and more...
Presenters
Rich Bader - CEO, EasyStreet
William (Al) Thomason - System Storage Portfolio Manager, IBM PacifiCorp Manager
Moderator and Event Sponsor
Todd Bauman - Chair Technology Ventures Group, Stoel Rives
Meeting
5:30pm Bend @ Hitchcock Auditorium COCC
with local host Scott Steele, AIA, LEED AP, President of Steele Associates Architects
2600 N.W. College Way, Bend, OR (541) 383-7700 (Behind the Bookstore)
Cost
$20 SAO members $35 non-members
Register at www.sao.org
The Clean Technology Forum evangelizes the opportunities available in clean technology and rewards companies implementing such processes through recognition. By broadcasting opportunities and highlighting examples, we hope to see implementation of clean and sustainable business practices blossom through the utilization of advanced technology.
Event and annual forum sponsorships available.
Contact: Bryce Yonker - 503 228 5443
The event is part of a series in Portland and the Dalles.
According to the recent Energy Star report data servers accounted for 1.5% of total U.S. electricity consumption in 2006 (61 billion kWh). If current trends continue, this usage is expected to nearly double by 2011. Over 50% of companies do have green action plans for their data servers. All companies need to examine this topic since most people would agree that the cost of energy is certainly is not headed down. There are a variety of ways to help reduce the energy usage of those servers with virtualization being one of the least understood but most viable solutions.
Topic
Virtualization: Energy Efficiency and more...
Presenters
Rich Bader - CEO, EasyStreet
William (Al) Thomason - System Storage Portfolio Manager, IBM PacifiCorp Manager
Moderator and Event Sponsor
Todd Bauman - Chair Technology Ventures Group, Stoel Rives
Meeting
5:30pm Bend @ Hitchcock Auditorium COCC
with local host Scott Steele, AIA, LEED AP, President of Steele Associates Architects
2600 N.W. College Way, Bend, OR (541) 383-7700 (Behind the Bookstore)
Cost
$20 SAO members $35 non-members
Register at www.sao.org
The Clean Technology Forum evangelizes the opportunities available in clean technology and rewards companies implementing such processes through recognition. By broadcasting opportunities and highlighting examples, we hope to see implementation of clean and sustainable business practices blossom through the utilization of advanced technology.
Event and annual forum sponsorships available.
Contact: Bryce Yonker - 503 228 5443
The event is part of a series in Portland and the Dalles.
Labels: classes, conferences
A Great Resource!
This book is extremely well organized and easy to read. It is code-oriented; server and database tuning are not addressed though some general ideas are discussed in passing.
Narrative explanations are combined with real world examples and code samples to illustrate each of the fourteen "rules" for tuning a web site. He clearly explains the pros and cons of each option, and why some techniques are better than others. He provides a primary recommendation but also discusses other options at length. This book is scalable to help developers of small-business web sites up to enterprise e-commerce sites.
Many of the "rules" are not necessarily a surprise to anyone with much web development experience. However the speed comparison charts and illustrations are extremely helpful, and many helpful "gold nuggets" of information are also sprinkled throughout.
After a full read, this book is now on my shelf within easy reach so that I can refer to the invaluable tips and code samples. I highly recommend that any serious web developer add this book to their bookshelf!
~Jen Blackledge, COWPU manager
More reviews of High Performance Web Sites: Essential Knowledge for Front-End Engineers at Amazon
This book is extremely well organized and easy to read. It is code-oriented; server and database tuning are not addressed though some general ideas are discussed in passing.
Narrative explanations are combined with real world examples and code samples to illustrate each of the fourteen "rules" for tuning a web site. He clearly explains the pros and cons of each option, and why some techniques are better than others. He provides a primary recommendation but also discusses other options at length. This book is scalable to help developers of small-business web sites up to enterprise e-commerce sites.
Many of the "rules" are not necessarily a surprise to anyone with much web development experience. However the speed comparison charts and illustrations are extremely helpful, and many helpful "gold nuggets" of information are also sprinkled throughout.
After a full read, this book is now on my shelf within easy reach so that I can refer to the invaluable tips and code samples. I highly recommend that any serious web developer add this book to their bookshelf!
~Jen Blackledge, COWPU manager
More reviews of High Performance Web Sites: Essential Knowledge for Front-End Engineers at Amazon
Labels: "book reviews"
