Inspiration & Awareness In The Age Of Conversation

A book like The Age of Conversation, with 103 authors and 103 unique perspectives, absolutely broadens awareness, and inspires us to go beyond the day-to-day.

Consider how the following authors highlight ways in which web 2.0 creates opportunities to make this a better world. We have at our fingertips the means to look beyond our immediate world, to connect with those in need, and create greater value for our brands by contributing to social responsibility. And, then, we can bring it back home to share the wisdom and the learnings with those around us....

G.Kofi Annan explains in "From Aid to Opportunity" that "with increased communication between individuals, consumers are more educated and critical of companies who develop programs that are uninspired. Today consumers require that businesses become active participants in community conversations both with the consumers themselves and recipients of aid; companies who exhibit a multi-layered Afri-activism program now enjoy a strengthened brand image."

Steve Bannister describes the pursuit of happiness in "How To Be Happy." "This pursuit may involve satisfying our most basic need to survive or it may involve satisfying a more philosophical need to understand our existence. Whatever the case, once our basic needs are met, the following question remains: how do we attain this elusive state called happiness?"

Cedric Giorgi writes about "The Internationalization of Word of Mouth" and how it will reach a new dimension with web 2.0. "International WOM will, in fact, improve conversations all around the world. As a consequence, almost everything will be known on earth and companies or governments will have to tell the truth and start real conversations with people!"

AJ James boldly captures "The Art of Non-Conversation." He asks: "Are the conversations not already taking place?" I say, yes and no. It depends. Check out his contribution and let me know what you think.

Amy Jussel brings up ethics and accountability in advertising with "Mommy, Why is that Lady Licking a Beer Bottle?" She cites staggering statistics relating to our children and urges that "we MUST take responsibility for the marketing messages we're putting out there."

John La Grou exposes us to "The Emerging Microclesia" - "a global voice in which ideas and imagination, not structural or positional power, moderate religious dialogue.... [It] is bridging superficial sectarian divides; exploring commonality as much as difference; maintaining creative relevancy to diverse global cultures; remaining sensitive to our shared humanity and common need for grace."

Colin McKay brings up "Governments" and "getting them to participate in meaningful conversation." I hadn't considered the implications associated with it all... "Governments are already behind the eight ball when it comes to public trust -- their social media efforts need to demonstrate value and a true exchange of information."

Chris Newlan writes that "We Are All News Hounds Now." Despite the changes wrought by citizen-journalism, journalism is far from dead. "We are witnessing the emergence of an environment where the traditions of mainstream media are preserved but complemented by more input and diversity."

Emily Reed asks "Is your brand a bore?" quoting Emily Post. The question is certainly relevant and the advice, priceless.

Brian Reich puts media into perspective in "Putting Media Back in the Middle." More specifically, "media ... is the information, the experiences and the stuff that we create, consume and share every day. Media is at the core of what organizations do and what inspires their work. Media is what we learn from, talk about, and define ourselves by.... Organizations must create good media."

Nick Rice elevates the whole notion of a brand in "Authenticity-based Branding." He says "if you continue to ignore or stifle conversation between employees, suppliers and customers, you're not authentically building your brand." He then asks seven questions to ask ourselves in order to "create authentic interactions and conversations" for and with our brands.

Cord Silverstein celebrates giving "Voice to the Voiceless." "We are living in a spectacular time where technology has enabled anyone who wants their voice to be heard an opportunity to do so. People who once felt helpless and voiceless are now empowered. Our communications and conversations do not have the borders or boundaries they once had."

Craig Wilson describes "Bringing It Back to Local" with Hunter's Best which "is taking the best of the web and bringing it back to a local level, so that regional viewers and businesses can see the forest from the trees."

Faris Yakob says "Don't Give Me Songs. Give Me Something to Sing About." Brands may have offered us songs and ditties in the past. Today, though, "people have wrestled back control of brands because each of us has a voice now and we can make ourselves heard - online everyone is equal."

Do you feel inspired? Has your awareness increased dramatically?

And, if you haven't already, go to LuLu Age of Conversation to purchase your own copy. It will expand your awareness and offer you inspiration.

Previous 'slices' from The Age of Conversation:
+ Power To The Customer In The Age Of Conversation
+ Listen! A Slice From The Age of Conversation
+ The Age of Conversation - A Slice on Connection
+ A Slice From The Age Of Conversation
+ The Age of Conversation - Now Available
+The Conversation Age - Enabled

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