Some non-copywriters who’ve inspired me
October 14, 2013 • Glenn Murray
Last week, I was interviewed by Balsmiq about the way I use their Mockups software to write copy in a wireframe format.
One of their questions was, “What inspires you?” As part of my answer, I listed 5 people who’ve made a big impact on me as a professional, but I didn’t expand. It struck me afterwards that most readers wouldn’t know who these people are. They’ve been a huge inspiration to me, but they’re not famous in the mainstream.
So here’s a rundown of each, as well as some links to more info and ways to connect…
Noam Chomsky
It’s funny. Even though I majored in linguistics, and Noam’s known as the ‘father of modern linguistics’, I didn’t actually become a fan until I started reading his books on power, communication and politics. He wrote my all-time favourite non-fiction, Understanding Power, the book that opened my eyes to how the world really works.
I admire Noam because he’s so smart, so diligent and so courageous. He’s spent a great deal of his life uncovering and publicising truths that a lot of (powerful) people would rather have kept buried.
Connect with Noam: Facebook
Luke Wroblewski
I first discovered Luke’s work when I was researching user interface design for PropertyBlurbs.com. He wrote a great book called Web Form Design, and he regularly talks about usability.
I admire Luke because he a young guy who’s carved out his own niche, and built a world-class reputation on his commonsense approach to usability.
Connect with Luke: Twitter, Google+.
Bill Slawski
Bill is one of the quiet achievers in the SEO world. He runs SEO by the Sea, and knows more about how search engines works than just about anyone, including how they’ll most likely work in the future. That’s because he spends his time dissecting patent filings and whitepapers from the search engine companies.
I admire Bill because he’s so passionate about the nuts and bolts of search engine algorithms and information science, and his passion has shed a lot of light on SEO for me. He’s also a lovely bloke!
Connect with Bill: Twitter, Google+.
Fred Schebesta
At 32, Fred sold his first startup, Freestyle Media, for $1.36M. He now runs comparison website, Finder.com.au. I first met Fred when he was running Freestyle. He was one of my earlier clients. Since then, we’ve worked together closely on a few projects and we’ve become friends.
I admire Fred because he’s a fearless, no-holds-barred entrepreneur. Not just a smart guy who’s worked hard, taken some risks and come out on top, but a completely different species.
Connect with Fred: Twitter, Google+.
Ian Butler
Ian’s my business partner and one of my best friends. He helped me build PropertyBlurbs.com and CarBlurbs.com, and helped me RE-build Divine Write. He’s a brilliant designer and, like Fred, a born entrepreneur.
I admire Ian because he’s so smart, so talented and so willing to just say, “Fuck it, let’s do it!” Plus he’s prepared to put in the hard yards to make it happen.
Fred Schebestsa wrote on October 14th, 2013
Glenn, You are a scholar and a gentlemen. Thank you for your very touching and kind words. I love your form, you always have an eye for what is happening and what is hot! Correct me if I am wrong but I am pretty sure you taught me SEO and Twitter?
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Glenn Murray wrote on October 14th, 2013
All well earned, mate. You deserve it. I know we talked a lot of SEO and Twitter, but I'm not so sure I 'taught' you. Certainly I've learned my fair share from your googly adventures! ;-)
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Bill Slawski wrote on October 14th, 2013
Than you, Glenn I'm honored to be included in your Balsmiq list, and here as well. Google's Amit Singhal recently likened changing Google's algorithms to changing the engine of a plane while in mid-flight, and the patents reflect that. Figuring out what's most likely is part of the challenge. :)
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Glenn Murray wrote on January 22nd, 2014
Sorry Bill. Only just saw your reply. You're very welcome. And yeah, I can see how changing the algos would be a nightmare. They can have it! ;-)
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