About Me
Christopher Uschan – Chief Blogger and Online Marketing Guru
As the marketing leader here, I get to be a part of everything from selling to product development. It’s a lot of fun and Omnipress is a great company which allows me to connect with a lot of people internally as well with many of our clients.
Why Me?
I began serving associations right here at Omnipress in 1995… my only “real” job in life. Although… I’ve had more jobs here than anyone in “omni” history.
I was hired to be the IT guy, but that quickly changed when I took over the digital media team here and pioneered putting books on CD and online in the late 90’s. I turned my focus to speaker file collection services and online services (e.g., session handouts online). Either I was really bad at what I did or there was bigger plans for me. My focus quickly changed the customer. I was in Sales management and eventually landed myself in marketing. Which I love!
Association / Conference Experienced
Through my 14+ years, I have worked with many association leaders, conference staff and volunteers so I feel I understand the craziness and challenges they face. I read a lot of association blogs, follow the industry tweeters as well attend many events (i.e., ASAE, Affordable Meetings) to stay close to what’s happening with associations and conferences. So, I’d say I’m pretty tuned in.
My Life Isn’t All Work Though
I coached the UW Women’s Club Hockey team in the fall and winters (hmmm, that’s work too!) for 10+ years… which puts me around hockey for nearly 30 years. I have since retired in 2009. I was an goalie in my previous life. Now I have a small rink in my backyard and am teaching my kids (now 4 and 6) how to skate. And, when there’s no ice, I volunteer coach little kids soccer. Outside the kids, the bills, cleaning, I like to spend time with my wife watching some of our favorite shows (i.e., Californication, Idol, Entourage) or throwing really fun parties (ever have 90 people in your house?).
15 Things You Didn’t Know About Me
Giving Back…
My youngest daughter was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis at just 15 months. My wife and I dedicate a lot of time to the Arthritis Foundation helping to support the Arthritis Walk event each year. Our efforts won us the 2009 “Heart of the Mission” award from the Arthritis Foundation,but it’s not about us. It’s about our daughter doing what’s right to help her — She is living a pretty normal life (and she’s a little terror sometimes), but will never live life without weekly injections and medications.
Staying Connected
http://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisuschan
http://twitter.com/chrisuschan
Photos
Here’s an album on Facebook with my family and friends.
Final Thoughts
On my life: I’m happy. Life is good and I am glad to be a part of it.
My advice: Be passionate towards what you’re doing or find something else to do.
On marketing: People buy from people, not companies, so you better know how to engage them. Hint: Relationships matter!
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Paul Wehking – Guest Blogger
Every once in a while Paul has something to say. And, when he talks, it’s usually worth the listening opportunity. Hence, from time to time, Paul get’s a little blog-time.
Paul is Omnipress “ambassador on the road.” He travel to many cool places while visiting our customers. Way too many to list. He’s even made it to the top of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. Not surprising, given Paul’s dedication and ongoing enthusiasm as he coaches and motivates the sales team.
Every day of his 20 years at Omnipress he’s lived by his motto, “When keeping commitments to customers, nothing is beyond the call of duty.”
Outside the office, Paul is always up for a sporting challenge. He enjoys various sports, working out, boating and canoeing with his family, friends and five dogs
