If you look over to the left sidebar, you will see Skribit, which allows readers of this publication to suggest topics that would like me to write about.

I decided to pick the one that got the most votes.

In writing this post, I have two versions. The short one and the long one. You are welcome to read both or either.

SHORT VERSION:

Q: Why are you a douchebag?

A: Why the fuck do you care?

LONG VERSION:

In February, I wanted to see the power of social media, and “personal branding.” Its something that so many people talk about, and so many people flub.

I was hearing friends say “I wish I could say X, but its not my brand.”

So confusing. Listen people, you are not Coca Cola. You are not The Gap. You have no brand.

You just have you.

As a bit of tongue in cheek SEO action, I decided to build my “personal brand” around being a douchebag.

Why a douchebag, when I could have chosen much more positive terms?

Simple. If social media was what people said it was (a way for people to connect and interact), and if it created an environment where it was difficult to “fake the funk,” then it would be quickly evident that I wasnt a “traditional” douchebag, but rather just Micah making a social statement about “personal branding” and social media.

First thing I did, was write a blog post. Not a long post, but a post that stated my desire to be the #1 douchebag on Google. After all, Google is the definative source for all knowledge (at least to answer most questions). I mean, if Google thought I was a douchebag, then it had to be true!

Then, I started calling myself a douchebag, and more importantly, allowing others to call me a douchebag. I also took umbrage every time someone else referred to themselves or others (not me) as a douchebag.

I (very tongue in cheek) acted like a douchebag on places like Twitter.

And, over the months, I got links back to my post. Finally, I reached the pinnacle of #3 on Google for the term “douchebag” and #1 for the term “#1 Douchebag.” But, more importantly, my “personal brand,” was not harmed in any way by the experiment. Why?

Because, I am me. Always.

To answer the question directly, “why are you a douchebag?” The answer is simple. To show that the concept of “personal brand” is not something one can “build, grow or develop.” To show that personal branding isnt a thing you work on. That the reality of personal branding isnt a big secret.

The reality of it, the real truth of it, is simple.

#1: You are You. Learn it. Love it. Live it.

I am a proud douchebag.

#2: Leave the branding to GE.

Who is GE again? God, I’m such a douchebag.

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