Paul started his web development journey in ’94 in vi on a SunSparc machine hand coding HTML tables. Since then he’s gone on to found a digital marketing agency ConnexSocial.com which focuses on helping mid to large businesses market their products and services. Paul is passionate about using WordPress as the backend for a SaaS startup.
He’ll be a panelist on Q&A Panel: WordPress for Small Business Websites.
Interview
Why do you use WordPress?
Simple to get up and running out of the box, and yet a plethora of plugins to achieve almost everything I’ve ever needed to do.
When and how did you start using WordPress?
Sometime in 2006 or 2007 I saw the ease of use and potential with WordPress. Since then it’s been my platform of choice.
What tips or resources would you recommend to a new WordPress user?
Create content. The more you create the better.
What advice would you give someone who’s building a business around WordPress design or development?
Network, there is a great network in Grand Rapids and a ton of business is done via word of mouth. I’ve given away a lot of WordPress work to various developers in town and I’ve received a significant majority of my work from those same developers. If you do good work they will pass work on to you!
How do you stay informed about WordPress (news, tips, etc.)?
Through the WordPress GR Google Group, and a couple of RSS feeds.
What’s a cool WordPress-based site you’ve seen recently?
What do you like most about WordCamps?
Networking, hyper-intelligent people helping each other.
Where can we find you online?
paulkortman.com
connexsocial.com
@namtrok
@connexsocial
linkedin.com/in/paulkortman
