Well, it was a productive weekend. Met lots of wonderful people and just had a great time in Pittsburgh. Another underrated American city–gorgeous skyline, the rivers, the foothills, the spectacular vista and of course, the Steelers. The weather was balmy, so that helped my impression. Trudging through snow might not be so much fun.

For the activists there–especially the ones new to New Media–I thought I’d put together some basic rules of the Internet.

1. There is no “private”. The internet is meant to share information, not hide information. Someone will find that picture. Count on it.
2. These are real people. If you wouldn’t say it in person, don’t say it.
3. The internet is forever. It’s called Google cache. Look it up.
4. Be generous. Give links, credit and help freely. Someone will help you, too.
5. Don’t worry about who gets credit. There is a lot of “sharing” on the net. Unless it’s overt stealing, don’t sweat it.
6. Learn who else is working in your field of expertise. There are experts–legal, military, education, etc.–in every field. Have a love? Hook in with these experts and become a part of something greater than yourself.
7. Meet people where they are–on Facebook, on Twitter, on LinkedIn, on your blog, through, audio, visual, whatever. If you’re an organization, you need to go to the people not make them come to you.

The government changes when the power of individuals comes together working for a common goal. One person alone can start a ripple but it takes many to create a wave. We need more people. We need you.

John Hawkins has a great opinion piece and wrap-up of Right Online with lots of pictures.

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