Chris - I can't remember my first steps! It was that long ago... My advice for someone first starting out, definitely research the social sharing sites that make most sense to them individually instead of joining (and subsequently) abandoning a bunch until you decide which ones you like best. The work to develop both your online personality and what niche you are most interested in/know the most about so that you can contribute to the communities in which you belong. That is something I wish I could redo.
When is Google going to do an update to its advanced search for blogs? I would like to see them add an authority function much like Technorati has. And, why does Google blog search sometimes bring back message boards results - so frustrating!
Nick - So excited for the MashMeet Remix! Sign me up for a free pass....BTW, you didn't mention how you plan to give away the free pass... poetry contest, perhaps?