So the semester at Humber is coming to an end. Perfect time to reflect. Gathering at our 1C Social Media #Futurecamp class got me thinking; what are the 3 best things we learned about Social Media this semester?
So, keeping with my list-theme, here are the 3 best things we learned about Social Media this term:
1. Making Connections
Whether it be with fellow classmates or industry leaders, making solid connections is imperative to a successful online presence. Simply put, you can't build a network without making connections. And seriously, you've heard it all before; "it's all about connections, who you know not what you know."
2. Being Authentic
If you're not funny, don't try to be. If you're not trendy, don't even think about it. If you can't cook, don't pretend to be a chef and then take lessons. And if you're in love, get a room.
Ok, besides the last one, the same rule applies to these "authentic" do's and dont's. Social Media is about contributing to the convo and adding value to the discussion. So add something good or inspiring! Check out my man Johnny's blog: http://juantimetwotime.wordpress.com/ to see what I'm saying; he 'gets it', inspiring posts for need-to-be inspired minds.
It's like real life... if someone is boring or 'trying way to hard' to be your friend, you ignore them... Well, same thing goes for Social Media.
3. Contribute to the convo
Lame. I know.... but whatever, it's true! Follow your friends and contribute to their online convos. Get the ball rolling.
Here's some links to a few 'mazing blogs on this PR reflection:
By now I’m sure everyone has seen or at least heard about Nike’s new commercial. And I’m sure everyone has an opinion on it. Tiger aimlessly staring back at you while a voice-over, from his late father Earl, is heard in the background, has to make you think. I know it made me think.
I wanted to dislike the commercial, I wanted to dislike Tiger... but after thinking about it, I can only accomplish one of these. I love Nike’s commercial. I dislike Tiger. Are you lost? Does that make sense? Of course it does and here are a few reasons why:
1 reason why I love Nike’s commercial
This commercial generates great PR attention
Nike is the only major sponsor that didn’t drop Tiger after the sex scandals were exposed in November. So obviously, it’s in their best interest to rebuild his identity and brand. But with a commercial like this, they are doing more than just rebuild his brand. They are showing that they care about more than just products; Tiger’s actions affected people and Nike wants to help him starting earning back respect and trust. Essentially, this commercial is allowing Nike to be more than just a brand. It shows that they have a face and personality; good for any company.
Obviously it’s a marketing campaign, and Nike really only cares about selling more products; this commercial allows that to happen.
The media coverage and the buzz created by the commercial is astounding; a great success for Nike.
3 Reasons why I dislike Tiger Woods
Tiger desperately wants to rebuild his image. Doing a commercial like this, doesn’t help.
1. He’s not ethical
With this context, having your late father front and centre in a commercial is not ethical. Simply put, Tiger is exploiting his father for the benefit of his brand (Tiger and Nike). How is this remotely sensible?! Earl’s speech was not intended for this purpose. It has been cut and pasted into this commercial; taken out of context. How can we even know what Earl would say about Tiger’s transgressions? We can’t and therefore, shouldn’t be assuming that he would have these words to say to Tiger in such context. Earl’s speech is being commercialized in an attempt to sell more Nike products and restore Tiger’s image. Tiger had to ‘okay’ this commercial before it was produced and distributed and for that, this move is problematic.
2. Disgrace to his family and mother
Hasn’t Tiger done enough to disgrace his loved ones? Yes, he has, with about 20 women. This ad is completely commercializing Tiger’s transgressions. What did Tiger say to get permission to do this, or did he get permission? “Uh, Elin and mom, I’m going to make a Nike commercial that brushes over all of the damage I’ve done.” A commercial isn’t the proper context to talk about things you regret, especially when the sole purpose of an ad like this is to restore a brand and sell products.
Also, not to speak ill of the dead, but Earl can’t really offer a valid opinion in this matter; he cheated on Tiger’s mom as well. So not only is Tiger and Nike exploiting the situation, but they’re also commercializing the transgressions in attempt to sell more products and make Tiger likable again. What is Elin saying about this?! “Thanks for hurting me Tiger, and thanks for making an ad that exploits our family’s shared bitter past,” is probably what she’s thinking.
3. Stop being a brand
Honestly Tiger, do you ever stop ‘working’? Again, the sole intent of this commercial is to restore his identity and promote Nike. Sometimes you just have to man-up and take the loss. And while you’re still in hot water with those who trusted you (family, fans, kids), you shouldn’t be trying to re-brand yourself. Stop being a brand and move on Tiger.
He screwed up, we get that. Right now he should be transparent and sorry. We know he’s sorry, but making a commercial like this, so close to being exposed, shows that he really only cares about money and the brand. Not everything is about money and sponsorship; it’s time to put money aside and focus on restoring trust the right way.
Graduated from the University of Western Ontario in 2009. Currently, I am attending Humber College and am in a Public Relations Graduate Certificate program. I love fitness and waste most of my time in the gym.
