Archive for January, 2007
January 17, 2007 at 1:56 pm · Filed under Social Media
This afternoon I meet with a client in North Ryde. Part of the time is dedicated to discussing the “Conversation Economy.” In other words, how is public relations changing in a world where pitching media is out and discussions with stakeholders is in?
Blogs are a perfect example, as are spots like MySpace and YouTube. These constant updates and interactions replace a “push” of press releases and corporate communications. Blogs are succeeding - just look at the daily updates of blog numbers.
But it takes the brave company to open up. It’s hard to know what to say, when to say it, and how to deal with criticism. Perhaps its been the barrage of litigation that makes corporate types shy. Or maybe it’s just the regulations and rules from head office.
We shall see how well they adapt to the changes underway. But at lease they’re talking…
January 12, 2007 at 11:53 am · Filed under Social Media
The hardest part of blogging is finding your voice, and making the process of posting a habit. Most of the time I don’t hesitate to write but I still get hung up when finding worthwhile events to post - and how to describe them. If you think of starting a blog, spend a lot of time thinking about the commitment.
So then you get caught in a mind-game. Should I post about this? What about that? And how should I describe it?
The minute you start thinking about it you’re screwed. Your deliberations force you to postpone a day’s post (then a second day’s, etc). Before you know it a week has passed and you haven’t posted.
And now you’re doubly screwed.
My advice? Realise it’s never going to be right and that’s okay. Blogging is about two parties - you and the reader. If it doesn’t work for you, it won’t work for the reader. They’ll see through your artificial attempts then slam you (or stop visiting altogether).
So be real and be frequent - and don’t make posting an event. Make it a fun form of self-expression. You’ll enjoy it more - so will your readers!
January 12, 2007 at 11:47 am · Filed under Workplace
Came back to work Monday. Had a great two plus weeks away from work. Feel guilty about not wanting to be here. Haven’t fully shaken the sever case of “Sunday-itis” that left me awake some of the night before the return on Monday.
I’ve never been one to do things in half-measures. I drink or I don’t (haven’t touched alcohol since 1987). I smoke or I don’t (gave up the fags in 1990). I exercise or I don’t (have two wardrobes - am currently wearing the “in shape” set of clothes).
So Sunday I dreaded the 110% energy required to get the job done. Then I had a thought - What if I approached the job with measured energy? How about a sane, rational approach to work.
Then I laughed.
Sorry - with me it’s all black or white, on or off, yes or no. I can’t do things with half the approach. That’s me.
So it’s back to work - and it’s okay, because in Australia many business people are still on holidays. So while I’m at 110% that gets applied against the 40% of the workforce now in the office.
Happy new year!
