It’s often said (and then dismissed as a cliche) that social media helps people better connect. This is a great example.
.-= Lauren´s last blog ..GQ’s December issue now available as iPhone app =-.

There’s a headline, huh? It was going to be used on “Gawker.com”, but thankfully, the whole scam has unraveled (deflated? pun anyone?). But Edward, you are so right about the aspect of charm, respect and appreciation for one’s time when it comes to interruption. Or worse than interruption, praying on people’s emotions, like the Heene’s did. On one hand, this story exemplifies how easily the media can be manipulated these days. But certainly the backlash will have grave consequences for the Keene’s (possible jail time, fines. etc.) And what of their kids- they could end up in social services (maybe they’d be better off?) Didn’t these people consider the ramifications? As a parent and general human being, it’s appalling to me.

I knew when I approached you on stage Edward, there might be some negative reactions, and there were, but even as I was walking (hustling) away from the stage after handing you my card, I was already thinking that this was either the ballsiest thing I’ve ever done, or the stupidest- maybe both I guess. But in my heart I knew this wasn’t rocket scientry (pun again?), and this was an advertising, creative crowd. I honestly don’t know if I’d do the same thing again, but it was situational; not manufactured, and not predicted. Almost like knowing you’d make the right decision if you found someone’s wallet stuffed with money- boy, could I use that cash…but…no, I can’t do that. That’s what helps separate those who have integrity and dignity from those who don’t; it’s knowing no matter how hard life gets, you have to keep pushing yourself forward for positive change, and maybe, spare change as well. I think I may get used to wearing my new optimist hat.
Craig

And yes, kudos for Chris for turning intrusion into engagement. And, for providing me with the inspiration for a couple of posts and some conversation about these two forms of communication.

I commend Craig for his courage… not only at the Hatch Awards but also for owning and explaining what he did on your last post. (I read every comment.) He handled himself with dignity and grace. And Edward, I commend you for overcoming your initial annoyance and getting to actually know the guy. Not only that, but writing a post advocating for him. In the end, maybe his risk will pay off anyway. Let’s hope.

In a sense, what Mr. Stage Crasher did, whether he intended it or not, worked. He created dissonance for you. You tried to make sense of it in a blog post. And he was clearly Following you, in the online sense of the word, then capitalized by using it as a point of engagement. He moved from Mr. Stage Crasher (dissonance) to Craig (engagement), and in that span won himself attention and, most importantly, a worthwhile dialogue that will better serve him down the line.

Craig not only showed courage, but he demonstrated the power of Social Media. And he showed why old models are shifting. But in reality, he just reinforced what we already know. In Advertising, new media or old, nothing really works unless it engages. And engagement is always a two(three/four/five/sixty-thousand)-way street.
.-= Sky McElroy´s last blog ..skymcelroy: @jchee916 Had an Indian Summer, did you? . =-.