The importance of blogging for companies

Blogging is a very important tool for companies to reach out and interact and inform their customers in an informal setting.  Blogging is not a technical manual, but a place where readers come for either enjoyment or information.
Creating, updating and maintaining an active blog can be time consuming, however, it encourages conversation and thoughts with the consumer.  A blog should be written in a personal fashion, not full of technical jargon that an average consumer wouldn't understand.  It should have a personality of its own, yet one that still represents the company in a professional matter.
The goal is to engage customers, and hopefully have them return over and over again to read more, in the end, creating a connection between company and consumer.

Here are my three important points for companies to keep in mind when writing a blog:
1- Persona.  Create a personality, and write creatively.  This will make the blog more personable, allowing readers to connect to your company.

2- Length.  Keep it short.  No one wants/has time to read a long blog.  They have come to you on their own and don't want to have to read through pages of text to find a small piece of information.  Keep it short and sweet with well organized paragraphs.

3- Content.  Not only good strong text content, but more so with video, photos and links.  Use hyperlinks to allow people to open other materials (I suggest having it open in another window, so when they are done with it, they simply close it and they are back to your page vs. sending them to another site, and your blog has now disappeared into the history folder).  Embed the photos and videos into the blog as much as possible, so that people stay on your site longer.

Good luck everyone with your blogging.  Remember to attach a link of your blog into my comment section so that I can follow you.

Facebook Fan Page Review

This week, I took a look at a number of Company Facebook Fan pages.
I wanted to know which ones I interact with the most, and why?  What are they doing well, and what can they work on?

This was an interesting task for me, because I take pride in not falling for these, what I like to call "marketing traps" that are Fan Pages.  Company fan pages are very successful because the consumer can interact with company, by posting on the wall, liking different photos or comments etc.  The 2 most beneficial points of a Facebook Fan Page are that people are already on Facebook (no need to go to a different webpage) and the company has the option of pushing information to you via messages or updates showing on your News Feed.

So to begin this investigation, I had to look through the few fan pages that I "Like" and ask myself, why am I a Fan of this Page and not another one?
For starters, I am not a Fan of Coca-Cola, Starbucks or any other large corporation.  Those 2 that I mentioned are consistently in the top 3 for Social Media Marketing dollars spent, as well as consumer interaction.  So why not me?  My immediate thought is that I don't consume their products.  I do not drink coffee.  In fact, the only time I have ever had a cup (and this is true) was when I was in France, and my boss ordered one for everyone.  It is in their culture to have a small pressed strong coffee after meals (especially lunch) and I didn't want to be rude.  As for Coca-Cola, I tend to prefer water or perhaps a juice.  I am not a soda pop kind of person.  And when I do indulge in a soda, it is not cola.  Most likely Iced Tea (I know it's not a soda, but it is found with the fountain drinks at fast food restaurants) or Ginger Ale, on the odd occasion that they offer it.

Alright, so I was a Fan of a few pages, I think 8 to be exact.  Why did I "Like" these companies?  A few of them I had worked for, so it was to support them.  Others are companies of friends, so again to support them.  As I'm looking through these companies, I realized that the one I interacted with most isn't a company of a friend or anything else similar to that.  In fact, I have had zero contact with this company at all, other than finding them on the Facebook ads on the right hand side of the page.  I saw the ad one day, and was very interested and curious, and have been following them ever since.  Actually, interestingly enough, it's not even a company, it's an event!

Tough Mudder.  An extreme event that takes place all across the United States of America.  It is different at each location as it moves across the country, however, it is on average about 12 miles long, with a minimum of 10 extreme obstacles.  The extreme obstacles vary from swimming/running through 3 foot deep mud, to jumping over fire, to running through a wall of live wires putting out 10,000 volts (I'm not kidding).  It is made to be one of the most challenging events in the country, and has a growing following that is quickly turning into a small community, or better yet, a family.  Throughout the Facebook Fan Page, people comment on others photos etc and call each other "Mudder brother".

There are a number of interesting bits about this Facebook Fan page that pulls me in for up to a half hour at a time.  To start, it is an event that takes place in different locations at different times, thus, there are constant updates of the "Next Mudder", or photos and stories from the previous one.

A recent favourite has been the hand drawn obstacles of the upcoming Mudder.  These are not blueprints or engineer drawings, but are the original hand drawings from the creator, just after he thought of them.  Some of them are designed on the computer using the program Paint, while others are pencils drawings on a scrap piece of paper, with arrows and descriptions all over.  My favourite section is not the ever interesting professional photographs of the past events, but the photos of the regular joe who is training for the event.  These are amateur photos of everyday people doing extreme or extraordinary things in order to physically and mentally prepare themselves for this intense event.

In allowing participants to post photos and videos, others are encouraged to post their own, comment on others, and just generally get excited for this first of its kind event.  This kind of activity and participation not only adds to the community feeling amongst strangers, but engages people year-round.  There have been a few who plan on following the event around the country hoping to participate in each one.

The general feeling of the site is for continued engagement, where people will return after the event to post tips for others, and answer questions.  Compared to a regular run, where visitors may visit once before the event for some more information regarding the run, this has created a small community of loyal followers.  I will admit, it does help that it is an extreme event, helping to bring people together faster, especially with such low participant numbers.  But the fact remains, wether or not the numbers are large or small, the online presence and participation is large.

So, technically, what do they do well?  Well, they grabbed me online.  Right off the bat, that is a fantastic start.  Especially for pulling in a Canadian (the event is only held in the states), who is likely not going to participate in the Mudder, and yet, I will browse the photos of the latest run to see the photos, read the stories and see what new obstacles were thought of.  So they used Facebook advertising to bring in new viewers.  And guess what I did as soon as I found it?  That's right, I forwarded to my friends.  No, not all of them, but to the specific ones that I thought might be interested.
Secondly, they kept me engaged by allowing everyone to post photos, videos, comments etc.   Mudder also does a fantastic job of uploading professional photos after each event, where participants can go through and tag themselves.
In the information section, they describe their Mission Statement, Vision, and location of all events (including future events still in the planning for 2012), with dates.  All the key information is there for you right away.  The tab below "Info" is "Intro" where there is a short professionally made video, with links to register below.  Having the ability to register right there is amazing for converting views into dollars right away.  Very efficient.

This is all great, but where can they improve?  Nothing is ever perfect.  Well, by looking through the page I notice that the page wasn't personalized at all.  It looks just like any other Facebook page.  It has the same format and tabs, where Coca-Cola for example, has a completely personalized look.  This could be for a lack of technical support in designing and maintaining the site, or it could be done like this on purpose.  Looking at the target market, jocks, athletes, extreme outdoor enthusiasts who perhaps don't spend much time online, and who feel more comfortable with a format that they are familiar with.

All in all, this is a very engaging and interactive Fan Page.  My favourite part is that you are not always conversing with the company (or product) but with other past and future participants who want to help each other prepare for this amazing event.  I am just as excited as them, and I can't wait for the Tough Mudder to arrive in Vancouver in 2012.

Check out the Tough Mudder Facebook Fan Page here.

I hope to see you there!

Whistler Fire and Ice show Social Media Release

March 11, 2011

For Immediate Release

Fire and Ice come together for this incredible FREE show!

The whole Family can enjoy watching skiers and snowboarders jump through the dazzling Ring of Fire.

• Every Sunday @ 7:30pm
• Weekly to April 3, 2011
• Location: Skiers Plaza, Whistler Village base between Whistler & Blackcomb Gondolas
• Cost: FREE
• Fun for all ages!!  A great family show!

7-Eleven Fire and Ice Show

Commercials poking fun at commercials

The new big thing in television commercials right now seems to be poking fun at television commercials.

The first commercial below is for the new Chevrolet Camaro, and I immediately fell in love with it.  It makes reference to a number of ridiculous situations that carmakers have often put into their television commercials.  I find it interesting, because to make this commercial different and noticed, they didn't go against the old tried and true formula.  In fact, they stuck to it, but differentiated it from other car commercials by openly mocking them.  Check it out below, and I can almost guarantee you will laugh.  They chose some excellent personalities to do this.

The second video that I am posting is designed more towards viral videos.  It is a SmartWater ad.  SmartWater has Jennifer Aniston as a spokesperson, and has used her in many bus stop, magazine and other published ads, but not television.
Again, this ad takes the success of viral videos and makes fun of them to promote their water.  I think it is a fantastic campaign that is obviously working because it was sent to me on the internet.  Jennifer also does a great job of it, and seems to be a really good sport about everything.  Very clever, enjoy.

Audi tackling Social Media

How should a large luxury car manufacturer utilize Social Media?

Audi has now come out with a plan.  They originally started by focusing on only 1 form of Social Media, Facebook.  Realizing that Social Media is a growing and almost necessary form of marketing, Audi has added 3 more social media sites to their marketing plan.  They have chosen to use Facebook, twitter, YouTube and Flickr not only to engage with customers, but also to communicate with them directly.

Audi most recently had over 10,000 customers sign an online petition stating that they wanted the brands TT RS to be brought to North America.  Audi, realizing that there is a desire for the car over here, decided to unveil the vehicle at the Chicago Car Show.  What was interesting, is that they contacted all the people who had signed the petition in the Chicago area, and invited them to come to the unveiling of the TT RS.

I found it nice to hear, not only that a car company will listen to its customers, but will also go out of their way to invite the petitioners to the show.

So, what else can Audi do to improve their Social Media presence?  Especially now that they have all these people at the car show, what will they do to engage them?
Well, Audi came up with a fantastic solution of using Facebook Places and Foursquare, so guests of the car show could check in at the Audi stand.  They took that even further by adding an incentive.  The first 100 guests each day will receive an enhanced calendar from the company.  They also encourage you to take a photo with your favourite Audi and post it to their Facebook page.  This is very smart, as it not only tracks people to Audi's stand at the show, but also to their Social Media pages.  That's called hitting 2 birds with one stone.  It also involves experiential marketing to a degree, in that guests will engage directly with the vehicles (taking photos etc.) and then posting and sharing them with others.  The more I think about this, the more incredible it becomes, because now Audi has hundreds or thousands of people advertising for Audi for free and enjoying it.  It is also extremely powerful as word-of-mouth advertising is the most trusted.

Social Media could have been very difficult for a car manufacturer to begin using if they didn't have a solid plan, which is why I think Audi did a fantastic job.  They started small, not out-stretching themselves, and once they had a strategy set, they went out and activated the plan in a subtle and effective way.

Audi has posted a video of their Social Media Marketing strategies surrounding the release of the Audi TT RS at the Chicago Auto Show.  I posted the video below for you to enjoy.

A friend named Larry.

I was lucky enough to meet a nice guy the other day, named Larry.
Larry introduced himself to me in the elevator at school, however, there is a slight backstory as to why he introduced himself to me.  Allow me to tell the story from the beginning.

It was break during my night class.  I went downstairs and across the street to the Starbucks.  Since it was about 7pm, they were getting ready to close.  There was a keen and young employee mopping the floor by the door.
I gently and carefully walked across the clean floor to approach the cashier/barista and put in my order for their double chocolate chunk cookie.

I receive my cookie, complete the transaction as normal and turn to leave.  As I'm walking across the room towards the door, there is another gentleman walking into the cafe.  The employee mopping, kindly stops and pulls her mop aside to allow us to walk across and enter/exit.

Now, with me being the way I am, and wanting to have fun whenever possible, I had already been thinking about what I could do to make this little pit stop a little more interesting.

As I was crossing the wet floor right in front of the employee, the gentleman and I weren't able to manoeuvre around each other, due to the slippery surface, and we gently bumped shoulders.  He immediately turned to apologize, even though the blame was shared 50/50, however it had set me up perfectly for my performance.  I had planned on pretending to slip in front of the employee, just for fun, and without actually falling (I'm not a stuntman after all).

So as he nudges me, I immediately throw my right foot in the air in front of me, and swing my arms, with a look of shock on my face.
Right away, I catch myself, turn around and smile at everyone so they know it was only a joke.  Haha, I thought the employee was going to have a heart attack.
The apologizing customer suddenly started laughing as well as the barista who had watched the whole situation.

Everyone had a good laugh, and then we all waved to each other and went our own ways.

As I was waiting for the elevator to go back up to class, the gentleman who bumped into me walked up next to me, also waiting for the elevator.

We both pointed at each other doing the ol' "HEY!!", as if we were friends who hadn't seen each other in ages.
We both started laughing, with him telling me how he totally thought I was going down.

Once we got in the elevator, Larry introduced himself to me, and started a short conversation about our studies before I had to get off.

It just goes to show that one goofy joke, or gesture can make a group bond quickly, as it separates you from the masses.  I now look forward to seeing Larry again, as well as walking back into that Starbucks. What exciting adventures you can put a few strangers through, all in good fun of course.

4 main points to making a successful Vlog

Here are the 4 main points to making a successful Vlog.

I decided to make these helpful hints because as I was doing research on vlogging, I found there to be very little helpful information out there.  So, after 43 attempts at a decent vlog (none of which have made it onto the internet, thankfully), I had come up with my own short list of Vlogging rules.

4- Choose an appropriate background, as well as minimize any distractions.

3- Don't ramble.  Keep your message clear and concise.

2- Keep your message and video theme appropriate to the industry or topic.

1- Have a Point or Message!!!


These are the points that I have believe to be the most important when making a vlog.  Whether you are a first time vlogger, or daily pro, these are applicable each and every time.  These rules also apply to any and all industries.  If you find differently, please let me know by leaving a comment below.


Watch my first Vlog as I explain these points in more detail, by clicking on the link below.

4 Main Points to Making A Successful VLOG - Link to video on YouTube.

Pushing the boundaries

Here is a guy who has started his own website which is called www.nimportequi.com and his motto is "C'est en faisant n'importe quoi, qu'on devient n'importe qui", which in English means "It's in doing anything, that we become anyone".

It is a comical website full of videos of himself doing ridiculous and funny things in public.  Below is a short video of him going into a movie theatre, and exaggerating a problem that many people face when in a theatre.  What would you do if he did this to you?
You may get upset at him, however, if he was actually this tall, you wouldn't be able to.  You may suggest he slouch, however in this case, he is doing it on purpose which would quickly bother anyone paying to see a movie.

Enjoy this short video clip and the rest of his website.

Top 10 Creative Ads

Hey, there you are!  Good to see you.

I'm glad you stopped by, because there's something I've been meaning to show you.

I just created my Top Ten most creative Ads list.

I have chosen some that are Bold, while others are more subtle.  I have both large and small ads.  Not all are expensive to do, however, they are all CREATIVE!!

Enjoy.  

Starting us off at number 10 is this smart watch ad.  Talk about engaging advertising.  You are literally trying on their product!  Compared to the other ads on the bus, these are quite small, however, I guarantee that they will be talked about more than the others.

Number 9 is very clever.  The best kind of marketing is done by effectively (and creatively) using the opportunities and environment you are given.

8 on the list works on the same line as the last one.  Place it in the incorrect spot and it wouldn't make any sense, but correct positioning and this ad is sure to get noticed and make someones day!

Ok.  We're moving along nicely here.  Starting to warm up yet?  Well, I'm going to start throwing it at you BIG now.  Number 7 is the largest and probably most expensive ad on this list.  This one isn't only creative, but also eye-catching, and probably a pain-in-the-neck to put up and take down.

I like number 6 because it takes what could have been an ordinary "Quit Smoking" ad on the back of a bus, and turned it into a memorable and effective campaign by thinking creatively and using what was available to them.

We have become immune to billboards, bus ads, tv commercials etc.  Because we are constantly bombarded with ads and information, we have learned to tune them out.  Advertisers now have to be much more creative in grabbing our attention, which is why I like this next one so much.  The advertisers, instead of using the Billboard as a platform to present their advertisement, decided to use the Billboard as part of the advertisement.  Fantastic!  Number 5.

Number 4 is not a large Billboard or an intricate and expensive ad campaign.  In fact, they (yes, I am putting in 2) are just simple shopping bags that you would have your purchases put into.  They both demonstrate what they do, but in a way that is subtle and will catch you off guard.  One will likely make you say to yourself "Oh, that's clever." while the other will make you scream "HE'S GOT A GUN!!!".  Either way, gaining attention.  Just look, these 2 simple shopping bags have me talking about them!

Alright, another 2 in for third place.  Two, because they are very similar, I figured I could bunch them together.  Wow, this top 10 list is turning into a dozen pretty quickly.  Lucky you!

These two are probably better off without any commentary.  Enjoy.

#2 is not so eye catching.  In fact, it is the only one that really goes against the grain, in that it is the only stand alone "Ad".  You could put it on a billboard, in a magazine or at a bus stop.  But I did appreciate the subtlety and finesse in its execution.  It is a permanent marker, in case you can't read it.

You've finally made it to the coveted number 1 spot!  Ok, it's not so coveted, but here is my favourite.  Starting with a standard Billboard advertisement, then adding a little creativity, gives you this eye-catching, jaw-dropping, impressive paint ad.  It brings a basic and boring Billboard ad to life!

Well, that's all I've got for you today.  What do you think?  Do you have any you want to add?  Maybe I can make a bonus list?

I've got to go, but thanks again for stopping by.  See you later?

There is such thing as "Sidewalk Rage"!

An interesting article by the Wall Street Journal about "Sidewalk rage", which is very similar to "Road Rage".
Symptoms and signals include muttering, bumping into others and aggressive walking.  Researchers say that these can cause "intermittent explosive disorder", a now known psychiatric disorder.

This is a growing phenomenon plaguing busy streets in New York and London.  Do you notice these symptoms in others?  In yourself?  Or are you a slow walker?

Alright, I admit it, even I notice myself occasionally getting frustrated with slow walkers.  I don't have a problem when someone walks slowly, however, I do have a problem when there are 4 of them in a row, hogging the whole sidewalk, walking slowly.  

Apparently it is getting to be such a problem amongst people now that they have named a disorder for it!  This is incredible!  On a sidewalk!  What is next?  Painting lines on the sidewalk to guide traffic?  Slow lane on the right?  Then we would have little turning lanes so you could turn into a store and what not?

When I was in Madrid and Cadìz Spain, during my vacation, I would wander the streets, just taking it all in.  I was in my relaxed, vacation mode.  Slow and calm with nothing to do until later that evening.  However, I still found myself stuck behind people on the sidewalks in downtown Madrid.  I was looking to pass them, but for what?  I wasn't in a rush.  I just have a quick walking pace I suppose.
My point is that it is a cultural thing for the Spanish to take things slowly.  They are the most laid back people that I know of, so far.  So why is it different here?  All that I see is a difference in culture.

How will you react next time a tourist is walking slowly in front of you?  Maybe even stops to take a photo?
Please try to be friendly, because they are paying to see our beautiful city, we want them to enjoy their stay, and hopefully tell others about the friendly Canadians!  In fact, their wonderful tourism tax dollars help to pay for the very sidewalks that you are rushing on.
Maybe we should all take a tip from these strollers; relax, smile and enjoy the day!

Here's the original Wall Street Journal article.

iTunes App Store hacked!

Somehow, the iTunes Store has been hacked by an App Developer.  The hacker somehow got access to iTunes users accounts, and with them, the hacker has purchased his Apps enough times to put them on the Top Apps category.  In fact, the hacker has done it so many times that he currently has 40 of the top 50 Apps.
Many iTunes users have complained of having their accounts hacked and having hundreds of dollars spent on Apps that they did not purchase.

As a firm Mac lover and believer, I know they will resolve the issue quickly.  A number of customers have already been given refunds, however, this goes to show that no one is ever completely safe on the internet.  Even our most secure sites get hacked.

Read the original article here.
Read Apples statement here.

As a new member of Digg.com, I found this article and dugg it, because it is important news that consumers and customers need to be aware of.  The growing popularity of iPhones and iPads and their millions of Apps make this a very large issue.

I still have faith in Apple, and will continue to purchase Apps, movies and songs from the iTunes store, however, I will keep a close eye on my account.

Embracing and Refusing Technology

As a child, we are cared for and taught life lessons by our parents and elders.  We learn math and science from our teachers.  Always looking up to adults for guidance and insight.  This has been true in every aspect of life, until now, where the tables have turned.

It used to be that you had to be a scientist to operate computers and certain types of technology.  Now if you have a problem or technology question, you no longer call a specialist or technician.  You will turn to the nearest thirteen year old for help.  It seems that being a teenager is the only requirement to completely understanding any and all forms of technology these days.

We are spoiled as a society to experience the amazing technologies that we have.  If we use television as an example, things used to be so much simpler.  Going way back to when TV was first introduced into the house, there was no remote.  If you wanted to change to the only other channel, you got your kid to get up and change it.  Nowadays, we need "Universal" remotes to activate all aspects of the entertainment experience.  We have to turn on the 50" HD TV, then the amp that controls the 8 speaker surround sound.  Next you have to turn on your Blu-Ray player, if you still use that outdated piece of technology.  That's right, outdated!  Everything is done on computer now.  So you plug your laptop into your TV to watch movies, or even your favourite shows now.  In addition, you will have hundreds of channels either via satellite, digital cable or one of the other many options.

My point is that as our wonderful parents, and the rest of the Baby Boomer generation ages, they can find it difficult to keep up with all the changes.  As the frustration grows, they reach a point where they have to make a decision.  This week, I witnessed a great example of both possible choices.

Option 1:  Baby Boomers decide to accept the new technology, learn it, embrace it and enjoy it.  My friend Allison is a wonderful example of this.  She has not only joined in the social media craze, but has become a power house in this new sector.  As a member of Facebook, Allison is actively engaged with her kids while they are at different Universities across the country.  She is also a proud user of Linked-in, and I bet that she'll read this blog too.  Another friend, Eliane, is also a great example.  As, a small business owner, she has recently discovered that Social Media is a powerful and necessary tool in marketing her business.  Not really knowing what it was or how it worked, she was previously not interested in learning about it or using it at all.  However, as she has begun to use Facebook and Skype to keep in touch with her travelling daughter, Eliane has become more interested in its opportunities and possibilities.  Speaking to Eliane about it the other day, I watched her get excited just talking about it.  She has now added Social Media marketing to her overall marketing strategies.  These are just 2 examples of Boomers embracing change, and using technology to further enrich their lives.  When accepted and understood, technology can be a wonderful tool to help people (or businesses) connect with others.  It is, as you know, a great resource for information as well, which leads me to Option 2.

Option 2:  Refusing and rejecting technology.  Not completely rejecting any and all types of technology, but definitely not keeping up with it.  A friend, Paul, who is a successful businessman, still does not have internet at his house.  He doesn't even have a computer at home, in fact.  And he doesn't want one.

He was having a conversation the other day, and the other gentleman brought up the point that no one uses the phone book anymore.  Paul replied "I still use it."  The gentleman asked "What did you use it for?"  Paul very comically but honestly replied that he used it to look up a typing school.  

There are those who don't feel the need for more confusion or devices.  These people are quite happy to use the resources that they are used to.  Paul has made a choice, and is much happier to be engaged in conversation rather than being constantly bothered by an iPhone beeping, alerting him that Ellen has tweeted that she has found a new funny YouTube video.  These people are content to enjoy the silence, and find beauty in the small things in life.

I think that we need to incorporate a bit of both of these examples into our life.  Technology can be a huge time saver, but it can also be a big time waster.  Technology is the way of the future, and will always be with us.  Embrace it, enjoy it, engage in it, but balance it with a healthy dose of outdoor activities and time spent with friends and family.  Maybe the next time you have dinner with family and friends, make it a device free zone?  

Dogsled Damage

What has happened recently in Whistler is a horrible tragedy to the animals and businesses in Whistler.
There have been rumours of boycotting all outdoor Whistler adventure companies.  This is EXTREME!
Why boycott the ZipLine company?  They did not destroy a hundred harnesses!  What about the ATV company?  They didn't murder their snowmobiles or ATVS.
I don't mean to make a mockery of this whole ordeal, as what happened is truly upsetting.  However, I don't believe taking it out on unrelated businesses is fair.  If anything, we should be supporting the companies that don't participate in this sort of activity.
I believe that a sort of MOB mentality has sort of taken over, as everyone is outraged over this, and we all want to make a difference.  The damage is already done, so we can't stop it, but we still want to make an impact.  Stopping all outdoor activities will not fix this problem.  I think it just makes us look ridiculous.

I can only imagine what other countries are saying as they watch this happen.  It is as if Coca-Cola, had put poison in their cans, and we all decided to never drink anything ever again!  We would all die!
It makes no sense.

My second thought on the matter, is we should all be looking to make a positive change, not a negative one.  Instead of boycotting, we should be supporting the SPCA, or other animal shelters.  We should be supporting those companies that do a good job of loving their animals.

By giving them business, it will show the other companies to also do a good job of maintaining their animals, so that they can avoid a situation like this again in the future.

I will briefly comment, that I believe that the dogsled company has tried to do a good job, and maintain transparency in this matter.  I do appreciate it.  As much as I believe that they wouldn't do it normally, and that they are just doing it for their benefit, I thank them.  The public wants to know.  I do not trust the company but do like that they are at least trying to appear positive and honest.  Because really, I have no idea who said what to who behind closed doors.  But I do like to be kept in the loop as they try to find out.
They did a good thing by posting daily updates of the investigation on their website.  I also think it was smart for them, because this way they are able to control the messages that they send out.  Well played.
http://www.adventureswhistler.com/media

Downtown jogging with coffee?

I spotted the most peculiar thing today while walking downtown. Well, I found it bizarre, but it went unnoticed to those around me.  Am I the odd one in this situation?

It was rush hour.  Right about 5:30pm on a tuesday night as 2 people ran past me.  At first I didn't notice anything odd, until they reached the intersection.  They had to wait the entire red light, and then wait even longer for the advanced green arrow to finish before they could cross and continue their run.  As I watched, I noticed that they were dodging other pedestrians crossing the street in the opposite direction.  I now thought they would run off towards the seawall and have a delightful sunset run.
But I was wrong.  They turned at the corner and waited for the next light.  Best of all, they both had coffees in their hand!!!!
I had never seen this before, so double checked to see if they were just perhaps late for something.  But NO!!  They were both wearing shorts and running shoes!

They really weren't taking the running all that seriously. I guess they weren't training for a marathon.  They looked as if they were perhaps coworkers chatting away.  I was wondering what the relationship was.  Judging by what I saw, I assumed that it was a first or second date?

But this still does not explain the coffee!!  I've heard of running to a coffee place, enjoy it, then turn around and start your return.  Or I would understand if you needed the caffeine to get you started on your run, but running with coffee in hand?
Do you know how hard it is to drink while running?  Especially with hot liquid?  And if I were her, I wouldn't want to spill the coffee down the white dry-fit shirt she was wearing on this possible first date.

My other general observation for this, is that running through downtown, especially at rush hour, is probably the least efficient form of training.  All the stop and go, dodging pedestrians, cyclists and blind drivers. It just seemed ridiculous.

My suggestion; if you want to go for a run downtown, run towards the water, and then run along the seawall.  It is a calmer and more scenic location to run, especially for a date.


Before I go, the most amazing thing about this, was that no one around me seemed to notice!
Is it possible that it isn't that unusual anymore?  Or that coffee is such a large part of our society, that it goes unnoticed? Or was everyone else around me too busy texting and holding their own coffee?  Perhaps.

Maybe I'm the weird one.  Or should the next time someone invites me out for coffee, I bring my runners?

My Social Media Personality

Hi everybody!  I say everybody, but I specifically just mean you!

This week I was given a topic for my blog by my instructor.  The topic is describing my Social Media Personality.
Interesting question to give so quickly.  Since I have only blogged 3 times so far, I find it a little difficult to pin it already.  And I might not get it right, or it may even change throughout my online career.  But that's ok, because we all change anyways.

I guess I would describe my online personality as your awkward friend who looks at the world differently from the rest of us.  However, you do like him.  I hope to make you think, laugh, at least smile but probably not cry.  If I do, let me know.  You can count on me to have a thought or question of the week.  Hopefully I'll be someone you visit to see things differently.  The quirky friend?

I will be here for you enjoyment.  Maybe a nice sunday read?  Or a quick drunk laugh before falling asleep?  It's up to you...

I will tell you this though.  I know you come here to read, but I encourage you to post comments yourself.  I love to hear from you!  Share ideas, start a discussion.  Whatever you'd like.

By the way, you look really good today!  Did you do something different with your hair?  Really fantastic.


Anyways, let's move right along and get on with the good stuff.

I'm still doing research on the effect of not turning around in a crowded elevator.  I have discovered that there are many factors that will change how people react.  For example, are there doors on either side of the elevator?  What happens when there are 4 of us who walk in and don't turn around vs. just one?  Are people more likely to turn around themselves?  If you are face to face in a crowded elevator will they start conversation?  What happens when you do?
This is an ongoing task for me and I hope to get back to you with answers soon.

HOWEVER... I do have a question for you!

How do you choose a restaurant??  Do you base your decision on food or ambiance?  Which is more important?  
Would you rather eat at a very nice restaurant with average food, or an average restaurant with fantastic food?  Given that prices are the same, and they are right next to each other.
Ah ha!  I see you are thinking about it!!!

Let me know!

Nice chatting with you today.  See you next time?

Oh wait!  Sorry guys, but I forgot I have to add a link to a company that is similar to myself in social media personality.  The best I came up with is the worlds second largest total grossing company in the world, and is constantly making a splash in the media with new products.  This company is very creative and constantly looks at ordinary products with a different point of view, and that is why they are so popular.  The company name is Apple.  http://www.apple.com/ca/
Yes, I am writing this on a Mac.  And I love it!

That's all.  Thanks again.

Staying "logged-in"

So this week, I was sitting in one of my classes and the instructor begin the lecture.  About 15 minutes into it, her powerpoint was interrupted by a Skype call.  She immediately declined the call and continued with the lesson.  A couple of seconds later, she received another call.  She declined again, and then accessed the Skype application to what I assumed would be to "sign-out".  However, she chose just to change her status to "Do not Disturb", but remained logged in to Skype.

I immediately asked her why stay logged in at all.  By "Do not Disturb" people still have the ability to call her if they choose.  Her response was that she is "here", but she does not want to be disturbed.  She then opened up the status bar and was trying to decide what to change it to then.  She then selected the "Invisible" option.

I again immediately questioned her choice.  Her response was that this way people can't see that she is online, so they won't be able to call.  I agreed, but asked why she hadn't just signed off completely?
Her answer was that this way, she would be able to see who else is online.  I asked if she would be checking it throughout the lecture?  She said no.  "So, why not sign off completely?" I asked.  She had no response.
She eventually saw my point and signed off from Skype completely.  In the end, it did not matter to me what her status was, as long as my learning wasn't interrupted.  I'm sure "Do not disturb" or "Invisible" would have worked just fine, but I was just trying to make a point and also figure out what the decision making process behind it was.

I think this brings a valid point forward of how people function today.  The internet allows them to constantly be connected.  Even when they don't want to be disturbed.

Most people will check their Facebook or Twitter accounts daily, but people are more and more leaving them on.  They want to receive the news right away.
I understand that these are a an effective and direct means of communication, especially to large markets, however, it can and does distract you.
You are constantly being pulled away from your work or studies to see what important or interesting news your friend has posted.  Next thing you know, 30 minutes has passed and all you have done is looked at pictures of your friends new puppy!

A number of companies have put restrictions on work computers to block Facebook and Twitter websites.  I don't necessarily believe this is a good idea.  I do believe this can improve productivity, however, it does eliminate a new communication tool.

If your company has not restricted your internet web browsing abilities, you should think about setting restrictions on yourself to only check it twice a day.  Once when you first arrive in the morning, and again in the afternoon, for any messages that may have arrived during the day.  Limit yourself to the messages and posts that are work related.  Those puppy photos will still be there when you get home.

You are at your job to work.  That is why it is called "Work".  Try to log off, and focus on your task at hand.  Your boss will notice the difference, as your work improves, and that of your co-workers diminishes, as they continue to tweet.

Only Log-on when necessary.  Of course there are exceptions.  And I am not here to be your mother or Police the internet, but these are suggestions that should be taken with a grain of salt.  For progression at work, and with those that you are with, learn to be engaged with them, and online when you are alone.

There is nothing worse than watching a first date, and both of them are on the phone, texting or changing their status to "first date going well so far", while still sitting at the dinner table.  Trust me, I've seen it.  And they both said that they enjoyed the others company and would go on another date.  I was flabbergasted!

Just think of why you are leaving it on?
Why change your status to invisible?
The Log-off button is there for a reason.

Empty Parking Lots

It was 9:30pm on a monday night, as my friend and I pulled into the Canadian Tire parking lot to get him some oil for his car.   Since it was so late, the parking lot was close to empty, however, I noticed him pull up right next to another car.  He got up and ran inside, while I stayed in the car.

I decided to watch, to see if he is a one of a kind, or if people in general will park directly next to each other just to be one stall closer to the door.  He wasn't a one of a kind.

There would be an empty stall between 2 cars (because one had just left), and I observed someone pull in, reverse, attempt it again, re-adjust and finally park it dangerously close to the car next to him.  Having to squeeze out of his car, so as not to damage the other vehicle.

Why go through all this work, just to be a stall or 2 closer to the door, when you can park sooner and ensure a safe and ding free vehicle by parking slightly further across the lot?

Tip of the day:
As I used to be a Valet for restaurants and hotels, I know a thing or 2 about parking.  My tip of the day, if you are parking in a parking garage,  go up or down an extra level.  It will leave you car alone on the floor, ensuring it won't get dented by others, and then you can also park closer to the elevator doors.  You might have to ride the elevator for an extra floor, but you will walk less, and there will be less general traffic.  Anyone that would be up there would be skilled drivers who utilize their brain.
The only downfall I can think of to this method is that some people may be afraid of a greater chance of break-in.  So please know the neighbourhood you are in, and I hold no liability for any break-ins due to you using this information.

Try it next time.

Keep your eyes and your mind open out there, and don't be afraid to challenge the "norms".


mrktgmike

Welcome

Hi everyone and welcome to my new Blog.
I will be writing about social behaviour in everyday situations.  I will be posting situations that I have seen, as well as stories about how I have gone against them, or unbalanced them in some way.

I would love to hear stories from you guys or suggestions about other ways that I can go against the grain.

Just to be clear, I am not doing anything to upset, hurt or endanger anyone, just to catch them off guard by doing an everyday activity in an unusual or slightly different way.

  An example would be when you walk into an elevator, and everyone turns around and faces the door, without speaking.  Then you walk in and keep facing the same direction that you have walked in.  Perhaps start a conversation with the person now in front of you?  Or just observe how people react.  Do they turn around, or do they awkwardly try to avoid your gaze, even though you are right in front of them?

Enjoy.