Thursday, October 15, 2009

Twitter - To be, or not to be?

The economics of communications is all about sharing newsworthy stories in a variety of formats - and adding a twist to make them worth talking about. Regardless if you Tweet, YouTube, Facebook, email your friends or contact your local paper - news will be shared. And news stories that are shared will either peak your interest or put you to sleep.

What makes a good story? There are several ingredients:

1 cup - honesty
1 cup - uniqueness
1/4 cup - human emotion
a pinch of humor

Stir until blended, and if it's not quite right simmer over night - until it tastes just right.

And if you didn't fall asleep while reading this - consider commenting! Add to the economic upturn of communications.

Monday, September 28, 2009

Content! Content! Content!


Coming up with interesting content on a constant and consistant basis makes for a great blog. Keeping your blog spicy and interesting can take time. Don't worry if you can't come up with the numerous posts that your blog deserves each week - a content writer can help!
The new industry of content developers and bloggers can help make sure your blog is fresh and current.
Finding a content development team is worth the time and effort. The extra effort will ensure readership and visibility.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

If Only Everyone Were SMUG (Graduates)

A great way to better understand our changing society, and its shift to an "information now mentality" is to seek out information and conferences on the hot topic of social media.

Today at a LifeScience Alley Presentation, @LeeAase provided insight to his experience. Lee has a great portfolio to prove he's walking the walk. His fluid discussion on the interelated aspects of blogs, tweets, Facebook, and YouTube have created a platform where truly, his bases are covered.

The presentation is available at:
http://social-media-university-global.org/2009/08/lifescience-alley-presentation/

Are you SMUG? http://social-media-university-global.org/

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

The Art of Creating Something Out of Nothing...

There is an art to creating something out of nothing... or creating something out of only a small spark. Making that lone ember turn into something that is burning out of control is what sharing a new idea is all about. There are a number of specific things a person can do to help fuel the flames when a burst of ingenuity comes along.


1) Wave your arms around - ok maybe not literally, but then again... If you are excited, it makes others excited. It can be in your voice, your choice of words, and the timing of your message.


2) Don't stomp on it - again, not literally, but if you point out the issues or holes in your project first, you may loose credibility. Know when to use messages that answer tough questions; Practice your response, and hold it in... until it's needed. Put your best foot forward. Use your knowledge of the ins and outs of a project to reassure that you are ready for the worst - but prepared for the best.


3) Tell those who are closest to you in your network first - they will see your excitement! Energy is contagious. They may want to spread the good news for you. (Again - this is networking 101, but key in building a roaring fire.)


4) Feed the flames with updates on your project by sharing with those exposed to your spark. Let them know what actions steps you've taken. Let others know when you have achieved mini successes or big successes.


5) When the firewall makes you feel like you've come to an end make sure you take time to look in a different direction. Just because you run out of tinder in one area, doesn't mean there isn't a new pile of brush that isn't ready to ignite.


6) Get some marshmallows and enjoy!

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Adding Social Media to Your Mix

Challenges faced by marketers today include adding new marketing channels to the mix. To get the go-ahead of traditional leadership can be as difficult as moving a large ship, in certain organizations, in the areas of social media marketing.

Does your organization seem to be the late-adopters when it comes to new technology? How have YOU been able to implement blogging and email marketing within your organization?

What have you done to take the helm, so-to-speak, and navigate through uncharted territory?

Conventions and Expos: Networking 101

Don't forget the basics: Here is a list of 10 hints and tips worth considering before you set out on your journey "To Get Noticed."

*Remember: Finding time to prepare for the conventions, trade shows, and the expo circuit can be time well spent if the it brings the results you want: building your networks and exposing potential customers to your products and expertise.*

10 - Increase booth traffic by promoting your participation on your website or in a local newspaper.

9 - Sign up early and request a high traffic area of the show.

8 - Booth layout and design - Don't wait until the last minute to pull together your booth. A table with some leaflets is one option - but why not wow your customers with a live demonstration or interactive experience.

7 - Promote your brand; make sure people know who you are and what you do! - Consider a "show promotion" - if it's a % off an order placed at the show, or a free item with a purchase, motivate customers to choose you by offering an incentive.

6 - Build your contact list - have a way for customers to sign up to your mailing list and drop them a line within 48 hours of the show to thank them for visiting you at the recent event.

5 - Information / Information / Information - If it's a leaflet or a catalogue, share information about your business and products or services. Some people prefer taking time to think about making a purchase - give them the time and space to make a decision. Give out information like confetti.

4 - Be welcoming: a handshake or a candy bowl can draw people to you. While they’re at your exhibit ask them if they found what they were looking for at the show… Who knows it could be you!

3 - Don’t eat at your booth. Take your lunch break elsewhere – it’s hard for your customer to have a meaningful experience with your lunch in your teeth.

2 - Keep your messages simple and consistent. Pick 2 or 3 things that are important for people to know about your business. Too many things and they may just confuse you with the other guy.

1 - Staff the booth with the right people. It may be tempting to have someone you know, cover for a few hours at the booth while you are not available, but do they know enough about your business to represent the type of work you do? Could they answer any tough questions a potential customer may have? More importantly, can they share your passion and enthusiasm for your business and give a potential customer the right first impression at your next trade show or expo?