Cortlandt Johnson
dartboston lifestyle
Test
In: Uncategorized
13 Jul 2010
Michael, Debra, Nicolas and I landed in St. Louis a day before our latest regional promotion’s campaign called the Jay Wolfe Toyota Race for the Ride to turn St. Louis into a frenzy and give away a brand new Toyota!
Alright before I get into all the fun I bet a bunch of you are asking yourselves, ‘What in God’s name is regional promotions, I thought SCVNGR was a mobile gaming company?’
Part of what we do at SCVNGR is leverage our mobile platform and work with regional retailers like jewelers, auto dealerships or real estate groups to put on a huge city-wide mobile phone games that ultimately generate a huge amount of publicity for the client and drive sales. The city-wide mobile phone game has teams of two running around a city to various locations, completing challenges and earning points. The team that accumulates the most points will win something like a $15,000 diamond engagement ring, a brand new car or even a $10,000 down-payment on a house (yeah it’s awesome!).
So this campaign was all about building a game in St. Louis and ultimately giving away a brand new car. You can hear Michael talk about what we were doing in St. Louis (This was just after we all ate an incredible breakfast at our hotel so Michael was in an exceptionally good mood).
Part of our preparation requires walking through the entire game to make sure the game we originally designed months before is still going to work flawlessly. So that morning Debra and I woke up at 5:45 am and took a two hour run to every clue and challenge location in the city. You are probably thinking we are insane for waking up that early and aside from being absolutely correct we wanted to be sure we’d have enough time to get through all of the day’s tasks and still have time to get to the top of the Gateway Arch by the end of the day. Read the rest of this entry »
Never Late for and Appointment
In: Start-Up
23 Feb 2010
‘Never late for an appointment Salmon Chase had no patience for the sin of tardiness which stole precious minutes from the life of the man left waiting.’ - Said of Salmon Chase (6th Chief Justice of the United States and Treasury Secretary under Lincoln) in Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin
If you are like me you’re hustling to meet with those who can teach you how to be a better entrepreneur. There’s nothing better than developing a relationship with an experienced, well connected person within the startup community who takes an interest in what you’re doing. Not only do you get an advocate for your project but more importantly you get someone who will give you their undivided attention and provide you with guidance.
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- Tags: being on time, meetings, punctual
My ‘Favorite 4′ Work Locations in Boston
5 Dec 2009
If you are a young entrepreneur bootstrapping a start-up in Boston your last thought should be about finding office space. Personally, thanks to a lack of funds for renting an office or getting a desk at a co-working space, I’ve spent my fair share of time finding the most productive spots around town to get work done.
A few quick notes before we get to the work hot spots. I judge every place based on a few things… WiFi access, energy level and tolerance.
WiFi - There had better be a connection and it had better be free
Energy Level - I go to these locations because I want to be surrounded by other motivated people
Tolerance - How many hours can I park myself at a table, only having purchased a small coffee, before I’m given the boot?
So here are my Favorite 4 (yes, I love alliteration). Now because I’ve lived in the Back Bay/South End for the past year they are pretty much located within a 10 minute walking distance of my house. I would love to hear where everyone else goes… Brighton? Cambridge?
Starbucks Boylston
Now many people might be saying, ‘Cort, there’s no free WiFi at Starbucks, how could you possibly even put this on the list?’ Because I usually buy a coffee to get my caffeine high on before hammering the keys, there is a way to get ‘free’ WiFi for a month by buying a small coffee. Just grab a gift card at the counter, throw 5 bucks on it and use it to buy a coffee. Once you use the card you can activate an account through AT&T’s network to get a month’s worth of WiFi access.
So now that we have that out of the way, the Starbucks on Boylston offers a ton of space, tons of people constantly pouring through the doors and lots of friendly conversation. There are always students hanging out getting work done and even better, I’ve met several people working on their start-ups at their antique dinning room table. Plus let’s face it, you can park yourself at Starbucks all day without buying anything.
Trident Cafe
If you have never been to Trident you need to get over there. I think it’s a fantastic night owl location to hammer out work. Aside from great diner style food (for the times when you need to eat something during your 6 hour work stint) and awesome wait staff, the bar offers the perfect work location. There are mounted power strips under the bar to plug your computer into, there’s free WiFi for as many hours as you can stay focused and I’ve gone there many times only spending a couple dollars (yes I leave a good tip) and have never gotten the evil eyes.
Cafe 939
This is possibly my favorite spot. Cafe 939 is owned by Berklee so the food is super cheap, the setup is conducive to getting work done and students are always in there rocking out on their instruments (these kids have talent!). Make sure though if you do go to sit in the front of the room so you can access the Hynes WiFi, otherwise you might be in trouble. The only downside to this place are the hours. It’s usually closed on the weekends and when school isn’t in session. But when it is open I recommend getting in there.
Boston Public Library
There is nothing better than sitting in the reading room at the BPL. It could be one of the most beautiful settings in Boston and it’s free for all of us to use. There are always a ton of people in there studying, working and reading which is motivation enough for me to get myself in gear. Naturally the WiFi is free and you can stay there for as long as you want.
So there are the spots where you will find me working. Where does everyone else go to be productive?
Impressed with Alan Khazei on Rule53
23 Nov 2009
DartBoston hosted a Rule53 episode last night with guest Alan Khazei and Ashli Stempel. The conversation centered around the topic of social entrepreneurship and what young social entrepreneur, Ashli Stempel should be doing to get her venture, PULSE off the ground. (You can catch the interview in full on the Rule53 website and why Alan is running for Senate at the bottom of this post)
As many of you know, Alan is a ‘dark horse’ candidate running for Ted Kennedy’s Senate seat here in Massachusetts. According to the Boston Globe, Khazei is polling in 4th place with only 6% of the likely Democratic Primary voters. So when we pitched Alan to come and participate for an hour on Rule53 we figured he would be less interested in talking about social entrepreneurship and more interested in stumping.
When Alan rolled into Northeastern last night he introduced himself to each person individually. A standard political move as all candidates do it and what I thought an indicator for how the show would have a political theme. How wrong I was (and grateful that I was wrong)!
Alan is an all star social entrepreneur and he stayed on that topic for the entire 30 minutes. He had fantastic advice for Ashli as well as everyone in the room. Some of his points including thoughts I had never considered… i.e. start-ups need at least a team of 5 people to be successful.
The reason why I was impressed with Alan is that he took an hour of prime time (7pm-8pm) two weeks before the Democratic Primary to speak about social entrepreneurship rather than his campaign.
We were recently approached by the Pagliuca campaign to host an event with Stephen. I said we would love to do an event and have him participate but the program in which it would need to be done is through a Rule53. They said that they would prefer to have him speak to our community in more of a lecture format where he would talk about his entrepreneurial experience and running for Senate. After his talk he would answer some questions from the community which could be less about politics and more about his entrepreneurial experience.
I was told over and over that having Stephen speak would be a great opportunity for the Dart community. I would agree that this would be a great opportunity but would be even more beneficial for all parties if Stephen followed Alan’s lead to speak to our community through a format in which we know our community responds well to. By doing a Rule53 he could create a connection on a personal level with everyone in the room as well as those watching online, rather than political one.
Alan spoke about his passion for social entrepreneurship, why he got into it, why he left City Year to pursue another social venture. While we do care about health care, student loans, the economy on a macro level, right now we are all super passionate about creating something. If these candidates want to connect with the social influencers that are the Dart community, give us insight into the puzzle that is launching a venture. Take your very important time to help us unlock how we can take an idea and successfully bring it to market. Do that and you will earn our respect and of course tons of positive online chatter!
Because Alan did take the time to talk to us about his experience as a social entrepreneur we wanted to ask him why the transition from social entrepreneur to Senator. Here is what he had to say after the Rule53 episode…
3 Keys to Scheduling a Meeting via E-Mail
In: Start-Up
19 Nov 2009
One issue that has been killing me lately is how people attempt to schedule meetings with others via e-mail.
I love meeting new people especially those that are doing things they are passionate about. Many people I try to schedule meetings with are a lot higher on the foodchain than I am, so being able to quickly and succinctly articulate that I want to meet with them is super important. Let’s face it, the guys who are way up the food chain are busy and don’t have time for a threaded e-mail chat over gmail.
So here are my 3 keys to getting the job done quick and easy…
Key 1: 3 Sentences Max
We live in the world of Blackberries, iPhones and SMS, don’t forget that! If your e-mail is more than three sentences that means you aren’t getting your point across fast enough. There is no need for fluff in e-mails, everyone is busy and everyone means business so let’s get to the point.
Sentence one - Who are you and what are you doing.
Sentence two - Why you want to meet this person. (If you have a warm lead, use the person’s name who told you to get in touch)
Sentence three - Reference key #2.
Key 2: Date, Time and Location
This is the biggest mistake I see most people make and this is the part that kills me the most. If you want to meet with someone make sure you take the lead in picking a date, time and location.
I understand that one might think leaving the opportunity for the other person to choose a date and time that is convenient for them would be the courteous thing to do. Wrong! By asking the other person to select a date, time and location you are making them do more work which is taking up their precious time.
I personally will throw out two dates, two times and two locations. That gives the other person options and you are more likely to land a meeting in one e-mail, saving you time and a headache. Plus if you choose the location make it close to where you live or work so it’s convenient for you!
Key 3: Keep the Ball in Your Court
As soon as you ask the other person to choose a date, time and location of their convenience you lose control of the conversation. You have just allowed the other person to get back to you at their leisure. If you’re anything like me and are really looking forward to meeting someone, you want to know as soon as possible when to expect that meeting.
By providing a date, time and location option, it’s really easy to follow up if you don’t get a response within a couple of days. For example if I don’t hear back within 2 or 3 days I shoot another e-mail with two lines one of which being, ‘just wanted to check in to see if you are still up for meeting at location on date at time.‘
Sample
Here is an example of what I’ve whittled my e-mails down to.
Hello Steve,
My name is Cort Johnson and I’m from DartBoston, a community for Boston’s most passionate under 30 entrepreneurs, students and professionals. I was told I had to get in touch with you by John Doe. If you are available on December 15 or 16 at 7pm to meet at Starbucks on Boylston St. I would love the opportunity to learn more about what you are working on as well as tell you more about DartBoston.
Sincerely,
Cort
I would love to know what everyone thinks…
- (10) Comments
- Tags: e-mail, meetings, schedule
It’s all about the E & O
In: Life
21 Oct 2009
Two words for you… Energy and Optimism.
I have this theory that by exuding energy and optimism in a situation one will always leave a memorable impression. Whether you are looking to connect with an exec or simply trying to interact with someone at the bar, E&O is the key to creating that memorable conversation.
Recently I was out Vlora (check it out if have never been) with Jake (DartBoston), Thomas (Professional Wingman) and Laurie (eFlirt Expert) and naturally the conversation turned to relationships. Jake was looking for perspective from the dating experts about an experience where he struck up a conversation with someone he found interesting at the gym. Somehow the conversation turned to all the reasons why he shouldn’t have approached this poor damsel.
While the arguments being made by the dating expert duo may be true, why harp on the reasons one shouldn’t do something? Thankfully someone chimed in, “why are we talking about the problems of the situation? Let’s give the man some solutions!” The conversation quickly made more of an impact as everyone had to think hard about how to turn the situation into a positive one.
Now when it comes to energy, it’s all about getting excited and passionate. For example, take a look at Jason Calacanis on his show, This Week in Startups (great show to watch for all those young entrepreneurs out there!). The guy is super passionate about helping entrepreneurs with their start-ups. You can see this genuine passion pour out of him as he talks to those who call into his show or when he’s interviewing his guests. This energy makes the show more fun and engaging and I’m hooked because of it!
If you end up in a conversation where it feels like small talk and you can’t hold your focus try asking the other person what they do when the 5pm workday ends. I think you will find that the other person will open up as they describe things that they actually care about. To make sure the conversation stays enjoyable, bring the energy as well, be excited for the other person. Find an aspect of what they do that you care about and exploit that commonality. The energy will be high, the conversation will be fun and you will have created a positive memorable connection with the other person.
I would challenge everyone to be conscious of their conversations today and beware of the tone. If the conversation turns to small talk, how can you add in your passion to create the energy? If the conversation becomes negative how can you play devil’s advocate and throw in an optimistic spin?
Bring the E&O and I bet you will see that your conversations will not only be more enjoyable but you will leave a more memorable impression on others too!
THE QUEST for Innovation
29 Sep 2009
On October 9th, I along with other members of the DartBoston community are going to be taking on THE QUEST for innovation. THE QUEST is a high tech scavenger hunt all around Boston celebrating the long history of innovation and entrepreneurship that has taken place in this city.
Participation in THE QUEST is free but companies and people can make pledges and 100% of those pledges will be donated to non-profits in the Boston area which support advancing entrepreneurship in Boston.
I am loving this event as it’s a creative way for the start-up community in Boston to develop quality relationships. For example, the idea of Pokin’ Holes at Dart is less about the show and more about the opportunity of giving everyone in the room a shared experience that makes it easier to start in depth conversations with others. Otherwise, let’s face it, we would probably revert to the whole ‘great weather we’re having’ spiel which happens at most networking events. THE QUEST too offers a shared experience for all of Boston’s start-up community which in turn is going to lead to great conversation starters!
Be sure to follow our progress throughout the day as I’ll be shooting many a Qik video!
If you are interested in getting involved to develop solid relationships within this community follow THE QUEST on twitter, facebook, linked in and read on below…
THE QUEST is a high-tech scavenger hunt that will bring together leaders of the New England innovation economy to celebrate a heritage of entrepreneurship and innovation in Boston on October 9th. Proceeds generated from THE QUEST will be used to help assist not-for-profit organizations and local university programs focused on advancing entrepreneurship in the region. Complete information and application details can be found at www.questforinnovation.com.
As a quick background, THE QUEST is a high-tech scavenger hunt that will bring together leaders of the New England innovation economy to celebrate a heritage of entrepreneurship and innovation in Boston on October 9th. Proceeds generated from THE QUEST will be used to help assist not-for-profit organizations and local university programs focused on advancing entrepreneurship in the region. Complete details can be found at www.questforinnovation.com.
As you’ll see from the website, THE QUEST is building strong support across the entrepreneurial and business communities. Participation is 100% free for operating companies, although selected teams are encouraged to consider making a pledge for the entrepreneurial programs being supported. You can apply online and preference will be given to companies that involve a founder or C-level exec on their participating team. There are also opportunities for service firms active in the innovation economy to get involved as well (entry point is $1K to field or host a team – contact info is on the website).
THE QUEST is lining up to be an interactive, enlightening, competitive and fun opportunity to join other innovative companies, business and entrepreneurial leaders from across the Bay State. If of interest, please take a minute to learn more by visiting www.questforinnovation.com.
We hope to see many of you out there supporting the start-up community here in Boston!
Paul, Alan, Wingman making drinks at the Roger Smith Hotel
In: Life
26 Sep 2009I had never been to the Roger Smith Hotel before but from what I had heard from Alexa, Thomas and others was that this is the place to go for social media enthusiasts. Well let’s just say the hotel doesn’t disappoint, especially the Hotel bar Lilly’s.
Thomas and I spent the morning hustling to get a WingmanTV show together at Lounge 47 in Long Island City. Guests that cancel an hour before the shoot are never appreciated. But per usual we made a few phone calls begging people to overcome their hangovers and enjoy another cocktail with us at 11am.
Here is a bit of Thomas’ show that will air in mid October. I want to thank Allie (the sis always comes through to help) and Mickey for making the show happen.
After a few hours of sleep last night and the hustle of throwing a show together in 45 minutes, Thomas and I were naturally looking for a drink. Read the rest of this entry »
Fun with Emmi - Boston’s Male Image Consultant
In: Life
17 Sep 2009If you haven’t met Emmi Sorokin yet, from It’s A Man’s World you are definitely missing out. Aside from her constant smile and brutal honesty (which I love) she makes every encounter a fun and memorable one.
Tonight Emmi and I headed to H&M on Newbury St to go through phase three of my fashion makeover. I tried on 6 outfits and for some reason only got 5 of them on video but take and look and let me know what you think!
Meet Emmi! Emmi explains a little bit about what she does and if you notice the wardrobe this is actually outfit #1… thoughts?
Without wasting too much time we jump to the v-neck sweater. I wasn’t a big fan of how the bottom of the sweater settled but Emmi showed me a trick to make it look presentable. Read the rest of this entry »
Coming up for Air
20 Aug 2009
There are a bunch of us working hard in Boston to get our respective start-ups going. I’m working on DartBoston, trying to get another start-up going and working part-time at Biogen to make extra cash. So naturally we had to take a trip to Milo Vineyard in New York’s Finger Lakes’ wine region to relax from the hustle of life.
There was a solid group of people that headed out and we committed to a technology free 4 days. From Saturday through Tuesday we shut off our phones and closed our computers (except for pandora of course). While many of you might say ‘impossible’ well, you would be correct. I certainly had to make a few phone calls and jump online to write a few e-mails. But it’s the effort that counts right?
Regardless, we had a blast and ended up playing some golf early on Monday, which isn’t always easy after long nights. Check out group two play number 18 in the below video. Aaron O’Hearn manages to hit a tree trunk square and have his golf ball bounce directly back at him. Priceless. Also check out Wingman, Thomas Edwards teeing it up on Hole 1.
About this blog
Hi, my name is Cort and I am a young entrepreneur in Boston pursuing the dream and co-founder of DartBoston. I am all about getting out into the community to meet other young passionate entrepreneurs and see what projects are being developed.
Photostream
- Never Late for an Appointment - Cortlandt Johnson: [...] I live and work as well as at times that are convenient for me. I’ve talked about how [...]
- Desmond Pieri: Cort, thanks for the tip on BPL. I had no idea. Question: Do they have electrical outlets readily a [...]
- Alex: Hey Cort, Nice post! I've also had success telling people what's in it for them. ie. "If you are [...]
- Allexe Law-Flood: Hi Cort, You will have to check out the Wellesley Main Library the next time you are in Wellesley [...]
- Christopher Mirabile: Court: Great post. Agree 100%. I'd add one additional tip to the mix: mark your calendar with "hol [...]
- Test
- Never Late for and Appointment
- My ‘Favorite 4′ Work Locations in Boston
- Impressed with Alan Khazei on Rule53
- 3 Keys to Scheduling a Meeting via E-Mail
- It’s all about the E & O
- THE QUEST for Innovation
- Paul, Alan, Wingman making drinks at the Roger Smith Hotel
- Fun with Emmi - Boston’s Male Image Consultant
- Coming up for Air