One of the first things a news producer thinks about, especially when bringing in someone for a guest segment is "Visual."
Here's a great definition:
"Any element of something that depends on sight; an image; a picture; a graphic; all the visual elements of a multi-media presentation or entertainment, usually in contrast with normal text or audio; a preliminary sketch; related to or affecting the vision."
Now for a great demonstration of using good visuals to communicate a message whether it be on a local or national program.
This week on the 4pm edition of KUSA 9News, the Western Dairy Association had some great ideas about healthy summer drinks for the entire family. To make their point about the huge amounts of sugar in soda drinks they had a 64 oz "Super Cup" on the set. Instead of soda, they poured out the actual amount of sugar you'd consume if you drank one of these monsters. The pile of sugar that came out was enough to put on your cereal for a month!
It was an impressive demonstration, and made a big point......VISUALLY. In this case, a picture was worth well in excess of a thousand words. It made you think.
Kudos to the Western Dairy Association for understanding the power of the picture, the visual, in making their point.
It's also the kind of thing we do in helping you share your news about your product or organization. Talking heads are easy to come by. Good visuals require planning based on experience.
The type of experience we bring to you with 30 years in journalism and corporate communications.
Visual. Always think Visual.
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Tech evolving faster and faster....jump in quick!
South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce members were hosted today by Best Buy at their Park Meadows Store. Along with a nice breakfast, we were given a detailed briefing on "what's new" in technology.
It was impressive to say the least and I can't imagine any of us not being at least a little bit overwhelmed by it all.
One of the stops was seeing a demonstration of 3D HD Television. Unlike the transition from Standard Def to HD where the technology was in place before the programming, this time programmers like ESPN are driving the evolution with content.
Early adaptors already have forked out a couple of thousand dollars for a set, along with $150 for each set of 3D glasses. (Which require batteries) Then there's more for receivers, video players etc to watch what's available, not the least of which is World Cup Soccer. More programming will come and prices will go down so I'm sitting on the sideline and will watch TV in "good old fashioned" HD!
What did impress me is the incredible networking technology for devices like your PDA, iPad, Laptops, your existing screens and the like. For home or work, the opportunities to integrate all of them seamlessly, and to connect just as easily to friends or customers are endless.
I already use some of the technology, or today learned how to use it to more advantage.
At first glance, it can indeed be overwhelming but the key with all this is not to worry as much about how it works, but rather that it DOES work.
The only limits are your imagination and of course, budget. Regardless of whether you jump in, or simply dip your toe, do it. Embrace it.
Or be left behind.
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
It was impressive to say the least and I can't imagine any of us not being at least a little bit overwhelmed by it all.
One of the stops was seeing a demonstration of 3D HD Television. Unlike the transition from Standard Def to HD where the technology was in place before the programming, this time programmers like ESPN are driving the evolution with content.
Early adaptors already have forked out a couple of thousand dollars for a set, along with $150 for each set of 3D glasses. (Which require batteries) Then there's more for receivers, video players etc to watch what's available, not the least of which is World Cup Soccer. More programming will come and prices will go down so I'm sitting on the sideline and will watch TV in "good old fashioned" HD!
What did impress me is the incredible networking technology for devices like your PDA, iPad, Laptops, your existing screens and the like. For home or work, the opportunities to integrate all of them seamlessly, and to connect just as easily to friends or customers are endless.
I already use some of the technology, or today learned how to use it to more advantage.
At first glance, it can indeed be overwhelming but the key with all this is not to worry as much about how it works, but rather that it DOES work.
The only limits are your imagination and of course, budget. Regardless of whether you jump in, or simply dip your toe, do it. Embrace it.
Or be left behind.
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
Monday, June 28, 2010
Taking Wing with Wings over the Rockies
Those of you living near Centennial Airport might have heard or seen the distinctive sound and sight of a WWII B-17 Bomber earlier this month during "Denventure 2010." Owned by the Experimental Aircraft Association, "Aluminum Overcast" is a living reminder to all the incredibly brave air crews who flew the B-17, also known as the Flying Fortress, on missions to Germany. Thousands never came back, paying the supreme sacrifice to defeat the evil of the Nazis.
The appearance was hosted by Wings over the Rockies Air and Space Museum. Located at the old Lowry Air Base, it's home to some 3 dozen military and civilian aircraft plus numerous other displays and a fantastic education department dedicated to getting the next generation of pilots interested in flight.
You might be surprised that the museum does all this work and more with just ten full-time employees. It's volunteers who donate thousands of hours of time, simply for the love of aviation and to hang around airplanes who make it all possible.
My contribution for the most part, is capturing their efforts on video. Enjoy this look back at Denventure, some of the fine displays and activities for all ages and of course, Aluminum Overcast.
If you'd like to know more about volunteering, click here.
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started about you!"
The appearance was hosted by Wings over the Rockies Air and Space Museum. Located at the old Lowry Air Base, it's home to some 3 dozen military and civilian aircraft plus numerous other displays and a fantastic education department dedicated to getting the next generation of pilots interested in flight.
You might be surprised that the museum does all this work and more with just ten full-time employees. It's volunteers who donate thousands of hours of time, simply for the love of aviation and to hang around airplanes who make it all possible.
My contribution for the most part, is capturing their efforts on video. Enjoy this look back at Denventure, some of the fine displays and activities for all ages and of course, Aluminum Overcast.
If you'd like to know more about volunteering, click here.
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started about you!"
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
PR Stuff I learned this week.
I like to learn new things. Lots of fresh stuff this week!
1. Being on the cover of Rolling Stone is cool, IF you're a rock band. Generals? Not so much.
2. There's a time and a place for everything, especially when it comes to yachting.
3. Those who live in glass houses, or even white ones, shouldn't throw stones or hit white balls.
4. It's not a good idea to portray BP as a "victim," especially when you're in the opposition party.
5. When you're a rock" star," don't flip the bird at Mets Games. Good idea to wear clothes as well.
The blog is on vacation the rest of the week. See you Monday!
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started about you!"
1. Being on the cover of Rolling Stone is cool, IF you're a rock band. Generals? Not so much.
2. There's a time and a place for everything, especially when it comes to yachting.
3. Those who live in glass houses, or even white ones, shouldn't throw stones or hit white balls.
4. It's not a good idea to portray BP as a "victim," especially when you're in the opposition party.
5. When you're a rock" star," don't flip the bird at Mets Games. Good idea to wear clothes as well.
The blog is on vacation the rest of the week. See you Monday!
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started about you!"
Monday, June 21, 2010
Redcoats and a MiG Flyby, etc.
From the "Etc" File:
Have you seen the Dodge Commercial with the Redcoats readying for an attack by American Revolutionaries? A runner warns the Brits of the impending attack, they get into firing position then are run off by a bunch of patriots in Dodge Chargers, one of them driven by George Washington. The theme is America got a couple of things right, freedom and building cars.
(It crossed my mind about the timing of this spot what with the whole BP mess in the Gulf)
Here's the spot:
Maybe we could add a third skill to the list, making great commercials. No, it didn't get me to go out and buy a Dodge because I just bought a Ford Escape Hybrid. At the very least I'll never look at a Charger the same way again!
Candy Airplanes and a MiG Fly-by:
Spent a fun Saturday at the Boulder Airport for the airshow there. I was volunteering with Wings over the Rockies and we had over 300 kids stop by to make balsa gliders and candy airplanes and "fly" on the museum's flight simulators. Candy airplanes are a fun and easy activity for kids. All you need is Lifesavers, a rubber band, a stick of Wrigley's gum and a roll of Smarties. The picture shows you everything you need to know about making one.
I was able to get out to the flight line for a few minutes and caught this fly-by of a MiG fighter plane. The MiG by the way, is of Soviet design. Proof I guess, the Cold War truly is over.
Hope you all had a great weekend. Time to get to get some "Conversations Started!"
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters, LLC
"We get the conversation started about you"
Have you seen the Dodge Commercial with the Redcoats readying for an attack by American Revolutionaries? A runner warns the Brits of the impending attack, they get into firing position then are run off by a bunch of patriots in Dodge Chargers, one of them driven by George Washington. The theme is America got a couple of things right, freedom and building cars.
(It crossed my mind about the timing of this spot what with the whole BP mess in the Gulf)
Here's the spot:
Maybe we could add a third skill to the list, making great commercials. No, it didn't get me to go out and buy a Dodge because I just bought a Ford Escape Hybrid. At the very least I'll never look at a Charger the same way again!
Candy Airplanes and a MiG Fly-by:
Spent a fun Saturday at the Boulder Airport for the airshow there. I was volunteering with Wings over the Rockies and we had over 300 kids stop by to make balsa gliders and candy airplanes and "fly" on the museum's flight simulators. Candy airplanes are a fun and easy activity for kids. All you need is Lifesavers, a rubber band, a stick of Wrigley's gum and a roll of Smarties. The picture shows you everything you need to know about making one.
I was able to get out to the flight line for a few minutes and caught this fly-by of a MiG fighter plane. The MiG by the way, is of Soviet design. Proof I guess, the Cold War truly is over.
Hope you all had a great weekend. Time to get to get some "Conversations Started!"
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters, LLC
"We get the conversation started about you"
Friday, June 18, 2010
Marketing 101 from....Kids!
On my way to a South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce event, some kids in our neighborhood set up a lemonade stand. I know, you're saying to yourself, "Self, so what?"
Well these kids passed the "So what?" test with flying colors. First, they had stands on both sides of the street. They also were using hand held signs like you see along roads advertising for tax services etc. They were hustling for business, they had a marketing plan and were executing it.
These kids had product and a sales strategy. I think they'll do well in business as they grow older!
It reminded me of another young future business leader I met a few years ago. My wife and I were driving home from the airport and stopped at a burger place. When we tried to order, a clerk said their computerized cash register had crashed and he couldn't take our order.
We responded that we had cash, pointed to the back where the grills were working and still got a "Please come back later."
Then a voice piped up from the back. "Wait, I'll handle this for you." A young man came to the counter, took our order, accepted the cash, made change and provided a hand-written receipt. He then went back and cooked our burgers to perfection.
I called the chain the next day and told them to put this kid on a fast track. My guess is he's graduated from business school and well on his way to success.
It's refreshing to see hustle and enthusiasm from the next generation of entrepreneurs!
Have a good weekend everyone. I'm going to get myself a lemonade.
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started about you"
Well these kids passed the "So what?" test with flying colors. First, they had stands on both sides of the street. They also were using hand held signs like you see along roads advertising for tax services etc. They were hustling for business, they had a marketing plan and were executing it.
These kids had product and a sales strategy. I think they'll do well in business as they grow older!
It reminded me of another young future business leader I met a few years ago. My wife and I were driving home from the airport and stopped at a burger place. When we tried to order, a clerk said their computerized cash register had crashed and he couldn't take our order.
We responded that we had cash, pointed to the back where the grills were working and still got a "Please come back later."
Then a voice piped up from the back. "Wait, I'll handle this for you." A young man came to the counter, took our order, accepted the cash, made change and provided a hand-written receipt. He then went back and cooked our burgers to perfection.
I called the chain the next day and told them to put this kid on a fast track. My guess is he's graduated from business school and well on his way to success.
It's refreshing to see hustle and enthusiasm from the next generation of entrepreneurs!
Have a good weekend everyone. I'm going to get myself a lemonade.
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started about you"
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Perception is Reality-The "Oops" Factor
"I'd like my life back"-Tony Hayward, BP CEO
Oops.
"We care about the small people"-BP Chairman Carl-Henric Svanberg.
Oops Part Deux
Of all the thousands of words spoken by both men, these are the quotes that have stuck, especially along the Gulf Coast. Adding additional oil to the wound is Hayward's British Accent and Svanberg's Swedish Accent. I've lived, worked and vacationed many times on the Gulf Coast and believe me, they want information straight and in an accent like their own. It's just the way it is.
I honestly believe that neither man meant anything malicious by what they said. As the saying goes, words got "Lost in translation." Svanberg likely speaks other languages besides his native Swedish and English. Good for him. But that doesn't matter. It's the perception of what they said.
As one of the best media consultants around, Frank Magid Associates once taught me me, "Perception is reality."
This is a classic case that skilled executives can, and let me be blunt, really suck at PR. Some, like Warren Buffet and Charlie Ergen are good at it.*Hayward and Svanberg aren't and should never have been allowed in front of a microphone unless asked to do so by Congress or the Courts.
Hayward testifies in front of Congress as I'm writing this. He'll be under oath, he'll have legal counsel at his side, and at the end of the day it will be one slip of the tongue that will be the lead quote in every news, information and especially mis-information pipeline. The politicians on the panel will do everything they can to goad them into a verbal faux pas.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not taking sides in this issue, just commenting on what happens when things get lost in translation, when an innocent remark becomes the sound byte heard 'round the world.
It's unlikely your company or organization will ever find yourself in the position that BP is. This is a catastrophe of huge proportions. A disaster that keeps on giving.
But bad things happen to good people. It's important to have a crisis plan in place and identify people on your team who are best equipped to speak about it. Or the right partner to do so on your behalf. Your crisis plan should also be reviewed on a regular basis, not stuffed in a drawer.
Perception is indeed reality. The key is making that perception positive.
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started about you"
* Disclaimer: I own Berkshire-Hathaway and Echostar Stock. I'm also a DISH Network Customer.
Oops.
"We care about the small people"-BP Chairman Carl-Henric Svanberg.
Oops Part Deux
Of all the thousands of words spoken by both men, these are the quotes that have stuck, especially along the Gulf Coast. Adding additional oil to the wound is Hayward's British Accent and Svanberg's Swedish Accent. I've lived, worked and vacationed many times on the Gulf Coast and believe me, they want information straight and in an accent like their own. It's just the way it is.
I honestly believe that neither man meant anything malicious by what they said. As the saying goes, words got "Lost in translation." Svanberg likely speaks other languages besides his native Swedish and English. Good for him. But that doesn't matter. It's the perception of what they said.
As one of the best media consultants around, Frank Magid Associates once taught me me, "Perception is reality."
This is a classic case that skilled executives can, and let me be blunt, really suck at PR. Some, like Warren Buffet and Charlie Ergen are good at it.*Hayward and Svanberg aren't and should never have been allowed in front of a microphone unless asked to do so by Congress or the Courts.
Hayward testifies in front of Congress as I'm writing this. He'll be under oath, he'll have legal counsel at his side, and at the end of the day it will be one slip of the tongue that will be the lead quote in every news, information and especially mis-information pipeline. The politicians on the panel will do everything they can to goad them into a verbal faux pas.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not taking sides in this issue, just commenting on what happens when things get lost in translation, when an innocent remark becomes the sound byte heard 'round the world.
It's unlikely your company or organization will ever find yourself in the position that BP is. This is a catastrophe of huge proportions. A disaster that keeps on giving.
But bad things happen to good people. It's important to have a crisis plan in place and identify people on your team who are best equipped to speak about it. Or the right partner to do so on your behalf. Your crisis plan should also be reviewed on a regular basis, not stuffed in a drawer.
Perception is indeed reality. The key is making that perception positive.
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started about you"
* Disclaimer: I own Berkshire-Hathaway and Echostar Stock. I'm also a DISH Network Customer.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Are you ready for this?
One of my favorite comic strips is "Zits" which follows the travails of a teenager named Jeremy. In today's strip he and a friend, while watching a television show on a laptop lamented the fact that Jeremy's parents still watched shows on a regular TV. How quaint!
Yesterday while attending a South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce event with a political candidate, I was using my iPad to "fact check" what was being said to us. It provided me the basis for at least one question. Another attendee was busy blogging it all on his laptop.
Watching TV, just not on a regular TV. Using an iPad at a political forum. Getting your local/national news weather and sports on your PDA. As I've blogged before, the information pipelines continue to grow, and the technology continues to empower you and me.
Remember the rock song lyrics "Are you ready for this?" (Believe it was done by a band named Jock Jams but don't hold me to it)
The question is a good one. Are you indeed ready for this? Are you ready to fully use this technology and all the pipelines to your advantage?
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started" (About you!)
Yesterday while attending a South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce event with a political candidate, I was using my iPad to "fact check" what was being said to us. It provided me the basis for at least one question. Another attendee was busy blogging it all on his laptop.
Watching TV, just not on a regular TV. Using an iPad at a political forum. Getting your local/national news weather and sports on your PDA. As I've blogged before, the information pipelines continue to grow, and the technology continues to empower you and me.
Remember the rock song lyrics "Are you ready for this?" (Believe it was done by a band named Jock Jams but don't hold me to it)
The question is a good one. Are you indeed ready for this? Are you ready to fully use this technology and all the pipelines to your advantage?
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started" (About you!)
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
The Art of the Sale(sman)
Just read (twice) this great article in the June 14-20 edition of Bloomberg Businessweek. It's a profile of Apple CEO Steve Jobs. Writer Devin Leonard portrays Jobs as the ultimate marketer. (Disclaimer time: I'm an Apple Shareholder)
I have no idea as to the value of the free publicity Apple receives compared to what they pay for traditional PR and Marketing. But the ratio has to be top heavy with the former.
When Apple roles out a product, it's a news event, a happening, with bloggers and analysts building up pre-launch "Mo" for days and weeks in advance. BUZZ louder than those horns you hear at the World Cup.
The most recent examples of course, are the new iPhone and the iPad. The new iPhone buzz started when an Apple Engineer "lost" a prototype at a restaurant. Tech Blog Gizmodo got its hands on the device and the free PR machine rolled into action.
At the "official" unveiling, Jobs quipped, "Stop me if you've seen this before." Wow. We should all be so skillful.
As Businessweek writer Leonard points out, "With the media landscape so fragmented, stopping the world in its tracks isn't easy anymore." But he adds that Jobs is the least great pitchman. Until the next great pitchman comes along.
All this gets back to my belief that what's key in communicating your message, is content. Regardless of the pipeline, you have to have a message and product that captures the hearts and minds of your target audience.
My daughter, who like me is an iPad owner, told me that while using it at the airport recently, several people came up to her and asked her about the device. When was the last time anyone came up to you and asked you about the laptop you were working with?
So even though you post on Facebook and Twitter, have videos on YouTube or just pitch to the local morning show keep one thing in mind: You, your message and product/service have to connect with Main Street.
It's a "Buzz" thing. Buzz is good.
Brian Olson
CEO and Founder
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started." About You!
I have no idea as to the value of the free publicity Apple receives compared to what they pay for traditional PR and Marketing. But the ratio has to be top heavy with the former.
When Apple roles out a product, it's a news event, a happening, with bloggers and analysts building up pre-launch "Mo" for days and weeks in advance. BUZZ louder than those horns you hear at the World Cup.
The most recent examples of course, are the new iPhone and the iPad. The new iPhone buzz started when an Apple Engineer "lost" a prototype at a restaurant. Tech Blog Gizmodo got its hands on the device and the free PR machine rolled into action.
At the "official" unveiling, Jobs quipped, "Stop me if you've seen this before." Wow. We should all be so skillful.
As Businessweek writer Leonard points out, "With the media landscape so fragmented, stopping the world in its tracks isn't easy anymore." But he adds that Jobs is the least great pitchman. Until the next great pitchman comes along.
All this gets back to my belief that what's key in communicating your message, is content. Regardless of the pipeline, you have to have a message and product that captures the hearts and minds of your target audience.
My daughter, who like me is an iPad owner, told me that while using it at the airport recently, several people came up to her and asked her about the device. When was the last time anyone came up to you and asked you about the laptop you were working with?
So even though you post on Facebook and Twitter, have videos on YouTube or just pitch to the local morning show keep one thing in mind: You, your message and product/service have to connect with Main Street.
It's a "Buzz" thing. Buzz is good.
Brian Olson
CEO and Founder
Conversation Starters LLC
"We get the conversation started." About You!
Monday, June 14, 2010
We now return to our regular programming.
I just took a week off for family. When I started this business, family and work were going to balance out with the tilt of the scales towards family. Although I'll be the first to admit that having our darling grandkids; aged two and five with us for five days is exhausting!
But it's time to get back to work building a business. We'll be announcing a new strategic partner shortly, it's a partnership that's literally been over 20 years in the making and I'm excited about it.
We've tweaked our website here at Conversation Starters to include our new logo. I like the changes.
This morning I shot video at Centennial Airport for Wings over the Rockies Air and Space Museum as they wrap up the visit of the Experimental Aircraft Association's restored WWII B-17 Bomber, Aluminum Overcast. This is my second opportunity to work with this magnificent aircraft. The focus of the video will include the aircraft of course, but also the many volunteers that make such an experience possible.
Tomorrow afternoon is my first meeting with the Business Leaders for Responsible Government Committee of the South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce. I'm looking forward to this opportunity to meet with government leaders, and potential leaders and to ask the tough (but fair) questions to make sure our government is accountable to "We the People."
So it's back to work, back to Twitter and hopefully securing new clients.
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
But it's time to get back to work building a business. We'll be announcing a new strategic partner shortly, it's a partnership that's literally been over 20 years in the making and I'm excited about it.
We've tweaked our website here at Conversation Starters to include our new logo. I like the changes.
This morning I shot video at Centennial Airport for Wings over the Rockies Air and Space Museum as they wrap up the visit of the Experimental Aircraft Association's restored WWII B-17 Bomber, Aluminum Overcast. This is my second opportunity to work with this magnificent aircraft. The focus of the video will include the aircraft of course, but also the many volunteers that make such an experience possible.
Tomorrow afternoon is my first meeting with the Business Leaders for Responsible Government Committee of the South Metro Denver Chamber of Commerce. I'm looking forward to this opportunity to meet with government leaders, and potential leaders and to ask the tough (but fair) questions to make sure our government is accountable to "We the People."
So it's back to work, back to Twitter and hopefully securing new clients.
Brian Olson
Conversation Starters LLC
Monday, June 7, 2010
Words to live (and die) by
"If you don't want to be quoted, don't say it."
"The mike is always on"
I don't know who originally made these quotes, but they're oft-repeated in journalism and public relations. As the header says, words to live and die by.
Case in point: BP Chairman Tony Hayward, while visiting the Lousiana Gulf Coast to brief people on the company's efforts to stop the blown-out well and clean-up the mess. He said a lot of good things, but one statement blew him out of the PR water. "I would like my life back."
Oops. My sense of the man is he meant nothing other than to say he wants to fix this. But perception was otherwise and as I learned a long time ago in journalism, "Perception is reality."
Everyone has said more than one thing they wish they could take back during their lives. I'm near the head of the list. Most of us however, aren't thrown into the public spotlight.
Some spotlight. As Mr. Hayward is finding out, it's incredibly bright. When it comes to words vs sticks and stones, take the latter.
In this 24/7 news cycle environment, with social media fueling it even more, one vocal faux-pas, all the King's PR men and their horses can't put Humpty Dumpty together again.
Just in case you're saying to yourself, "Self, I'd never let this happen to me," think again.
Media training and crisis management are something we and our strategic partners at Conversation Starters specialize in. We've been on both sides of the mike and have learned from our own mistakes.
Let us help you keep from making the same ones. Or if you do, how to clean up afterwards.
Brian Olson
CEO and Founder
Conversation Starters, LLC
"The mike is always on"
I don't know who originally made these quotes, but they're oft-repeated in journalism and public relations. As the header says, words to live and die by.
Case in point: BP Chairman Tony Hayward, while visiting the Lousiana Gulf Coast to brief people on the company's efforts to stop the blown-out well and clean-up the mess. He said a lot of good things, but one statement blew him out of the PR water. "I would like my life back."
Oops. My sense of the man is he meant nothing other than to say he wants to fix this. But perception was otherwise and as I learned a long time ago in journalism, "Perception is reality."
Everyone has said more than one thing they wish they could take back during their lives. I'm near the head of the list. Most of us however, aren't thrown into the public spotlight.
Some spotlight. As Mr. Hayward is finding out, it's incredibly bright. When it comes to words vs sticks and stones, take the latter.
In this 24/7 news cycle environment, with social media fueling it even more, one vocal faux-pas, all the King's PR men and their horses can't put Humpty Dumpty together again.
Just in case you're saying to yourself, "Self, I'd never let this happen to me," think again.
Media training and crisis management are something we and our strategic partners at Conversation Starters specialize in. We've been on both sides of the mike and have learned from our own mistakes.
Let us help you keep from making the same ones. Or if you do, how to clean up afterwards.
Brian Olson
CEO and Founder
Conversation Starters, LLC
Friday, June 4, 2010
The Business of Journalism should be just that.
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." -1st Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America.
There's a little (but dangerous) initiative flying just below the radar screen in Washington which should trouble us all. Government is trying to "Re-invent" Journalism. It's a line they should not, and must not cross.
Here's just one article about it all, but in a nutshell here's what government wants to do to "fix" what ain't broken.
-Establishing news vouchers for citizens to support non-profit journalism. i.e. Public Broadcasting.
-A 5% sales tax on consumer electronics to pay for even more government owned broadcasting.
-A "News" Division of Americorps
Commercial broadcasters and print outlets are going through tough times. But they don't need "help" from the government. They'll figure it out. The founding fathers of this nation realized that a free, unfettered and INDEPENDENT press was critical to the success of the nation and our freedoms guaranteed by the 1st Amendment.
Please don't confuse this with an anti-government rant. (Although if you want to, that's fine too.) We need government to fix potholes etc, but not to fix journalism. I spent 20 years in the craft, including serving on the Board of Directors of the Radio-Television-Digital News Association which represents the interests of journalists. Our patron saint is Ed Murrow. Walter Cronkite sitteth at his right hand.
Anything, and I mean anything that somehow casts doubt, or restricts the ability of a free and open media to ask the tough questions, and then to report to us the answers, is a dangerous step towards erosion of our freedom of independent thought and exchange of ideas and opinions.
This also isn't against Public Broadcasting. Donate during their telethons, please. But I want a choice besides Public Radio and Television. You have your favorite news outlets, and so do I. They often may differ but the common theme we must embrace and protect is choice.
I have far too many good friends in journalism who work their rear-ends off to inform us. The last thing I want is for their stories to be approved by the government prior to air. Or to be charged a sales tax on a new television to pay for it.
Freedom starts with a free media. This "initiative" could be the beginning of the end of a free and open media.
Brian Olson
CEO and Founder
Conversation Starters LLC
There's a little (but dangerous) initiative flying just below the radar screen in Washington which should trouble us all. Government is trying to "Re-invent" Journalism. It's a line they should not, and must not cross.
Here's just one article about it all, but in a nutshell here's what government wants to do to "fix" what ain't broken.
-Establishing news vouchers for citizens to support non-profit journalism. i.e. Public Broadcasting.
-A 5% sales tax on consumer electronics to pay for even more government owned broadcasting.
-A "News" Division of Americorps
Commercial broadcasters and print outlets are going through tough times. But they don't need "help" from the government. They'll figure it out. The founding fathers of this nation realized that a free, unfettered and INDEPENDENT press was critical to the success of the nation and our freedoms guaranteed by the 1st Amendment.
Please don't confuse this with an anti-government rant. (Although if you want to, that's fine too.) We need government to fix potholes etc, but not to fix journalism. I spent 20 years in the craft, including serving on the Board of Directors of the Radio-Television-Digital News Association which represents the interests of journalists. Our patron saint is Ed Murrow. Walter Cronkite sitteth at his right hand.
Anything, and I mean anything that somehow casts doubt, or restricts the ability of a free and open media to ask the tough questions, and then to report to us the answers, is a dangerous step towards erosion of our freedom of independent thought and exchange of ideas and opinions.
This also isn't against Public Broadcasting. Donate during their telethons, please. But I want a choice besides Public Radio and Television. You have your favorite news outlets, and so do I. They often may differ but the common theme we must embrace and protect is choice.
I have far too many good friends in journalism who work their rear-ends off to inform us. The last thing I want is for their stories to be approved by the government prior to air. Or to be charged a sales tax on a new television to pay for it.
Freedom starts with a free media. This "initiative" could be the beginning of the end of a free and open media.
Brian Olson
CEO and Founder
Conversation Starters LLC
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
The difference between a Pipeline and a Pipeline
Pipelines carry stuff from here to there and vice-versa, depending on your location. Most associate the term with oil and gas. But pipelines also carry water, in fact any liquid asset.
Pipelines also carry information. A website is a pipeline of information. So is Twitter and YouTube. Your favorite local radio or television news station is a pipeline. Ditto for a newspaper, if you still have one where you live.
A generation ago we had a limited number of pipelines. If you're old enough to remember it, think of the Iran Hostage Crisis. Far fewer sources for news compared to today. You actually had to wait for news. The crisis in fact, created a pipeline, an ABC broadcast called "America Held Hostage." Today you know it as Nightline. You can watch the show off-air, via satellite or cable and of course the show has its own website. Which connects to numerous other pipelines.
Much is made of the ever growing number of communication pipelines. Each day it seems, comes a new one. Better, bolder, hotter than the others.
"My pipeline is cooler than your pipeline!"
Sadly, lost in the conversation is the conversation itself, i.e. CONTENT.
To be blunt, crap is crap, regardless of how it's delivered. Crap in, crap out.
Holy crap.
Creating impactful content for your pipeline(s) is what we do at Conversation Starters. Your message has to be meaningful on Main Street. Let us help you do just that.
Brian Olson
CEO and Founder
Conversation Starters LLC
Pipelines also carry information. A website is a pipeline of information. So is Twitter and YouTube. Your favorite local radio or television news station is a pipeline. Ditto for a newspaper, if you still have one where you live.
A generation ago we had a limited number of pipelines. If you're old enough to remember it, think of the Iran Hostage Crisis. Far fewer sources for news compared to today. You actually had to wait for news. The crisis in fact, created a pipeline, an ABC broadcast called "America Held Hostage." Today you know it as Nightline. You can watch the show off-air, via satellite or cable and of course the show has its own website. Which connects to numerous other pipelines.
Much is made of the ever growing number of communication pipelines. Each day it seems, comes a new one. Better, bolder, hotter than the others.
"My pipeline is cooler than your pipeline!"
Sadly, lost in the conversation is the conversation itself, i.e. CONTENT.
To be blunt, crap is crap, regardless of how it's delivered. Crap in, crap out.
Holy crap.
Creating impactful content for your pipeline(s) is what we do at Conversation Starters. Your message has to be meaningful on Main Street. Let us help you do just that.
Brian Olson
CEO and Founder
Conversation Starters LLC
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Brand Ambassadorship
I've been listening to podcasts since the series of finale of LOST. Plus I've read more than a few articles. While the series wrapped up things generally, it didn't wrap up everything so it makes for interesting listening and reading. Two podcasts I listen to plan to continue on for months, maybe years.
Mentioned more than a few times is the upcoming release of the DVD package of the series. ABC and the producers of the hit show aren't paying a dime for any of this. Wow, imagine reaching huge audiences to market your product for free.
It reminds me of what I heard earlier this year in Atlanta at a Social Media Summit. The folks at Coca Cola (which hosted the event) talked about a Facebook fan page for Coke. It has almost 500 thousand members. But Coke didn't create it. Two fans did.
Customers and fans of your brand, can be your best "Brand Ambassadors." They post on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. They create fan pages.
IF...they like your product and customer service. It can just as easily work the opposite. Mistreat or mislead your customer base and they'll let you have it digitally, big-time.
Then there are cases where good companies get a bad rap on the Internet for no other reason that while the great thing about the Internet is everyone has access to it, the bad thing about the Internet is everyone has access to it.
As one psychologist said, "The Internet has provided a platform for the hateful." Usually, most of these types post anonymously, but believe it or not, some people believe them.
We specialize in helping you make the most out of your brand ambassadors, and how to deal with those who have nothing better to do than pick on you unfairly. There's a time and a place for everything on the Internet, especially when it comes to your brand's reputation.
Let us help you manage your brand in the ever-evolving world of Social Media.
Brian Olson
CEO and Founder
Conversation Starters LLC
Mentioned more than a few times is the upcoming release of the DVD package of the series. ABC and the producers of the hit show aren't paying a dime for any of this. Wow, imagine reaching huge audiences to market your product for free.
It reminds me of what I heard earlier this year in Atlanta at a Social Media Summit. The folks at Coca Cola (which hosted the event) talked about a Facebook fan page for Coke. It has almost 500 thousand members. But Coke didn't create it. Two fans did.
Customers and fans of your brand, can be your best "Brand Ambassadors." They post on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube. They create fan pages.
IF...they like your product and customer service. It can just as easily work the opposite. Mistreat or mislead your customer base and they'll let you have it digitally, big-time.
Then there are cases where good companies get a bad rap on the Internet for no other reason that while the great thing about the Internet is everyone has access to it, the bad thing about the Internet is everyone has access to it.
As one psychologist said, "The Internet has provided a platform for the hateful." Usually, most of these types post anonymously, but believe it or not, some people believe them.
We specialize in helping you make the most out of your brand ambassadors, and how to deal with those who have nothing better to do than pick on you unfairly. There's a time and a place for everything on the Internet, especially when it comes to your brand's reputation.
Let us help you manage your brand in the ever-evolving world of Social Media.
Brian Olson
CEO and Founder
Conversation Starters LLC
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)