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Everything I Know About Social Media And Radio
May 12, 2015
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There was a piece in the 'New York Times,' written by Margaret Sullivan, that made me think of our great industry -- and how we should have a list just like this pinned on every door we enter.
Sullivan was teaching a class called "Audience and Engagement," which had to do with journalism on social platforms, at Columbia Grad School of Journalism.
As I combed through her lists, I thought this would be worth a read for everyone -- and something to share.
Sullivan wrote: "About social media"
- No road rage; walk away from the keyboard.
- Be useful.
- Be responsive.
- Be willing to correct and acknowledge errors immediately.
- Show restraint; remember that you are posting to The World. Forever.
- Read every link before re-tweeting or re-posting.
- It's a tool, not an end in itself.
And then she continued into "About Journalism." But replace the word "J" word with "radio."
For those just getting into the business, and for the veterans of our industry -- this should serve as a reminder of what's required in order to continue to succeed.
About Radio.- Don't cut corners. Do the actual work.
- You can lose your reputation and your career in an instant.
- Despite that, don't be timid. Be brave; just don't be brave and stupid.
- Ask for advice from smart people.
- Do the work that improves the world, even in a small way.
- Don't sink to least-common-denominator.
- A little snark goes a long way.
- Think more about fairness than objectivity.
- Put yourself in the place of the people who will be affected by your work.
- Be rigorous. Go the extra mile.
- Get to be really good at one or two things. And get to be decently good at a whole bunch of things.
- If you screw up, apologize fully and move on.
- Try to work for someone great.
- Whatever help you've received in your career, pay it forward.
- Be idealistic. Resist cynicism.
- You are not in this business for the money, so what are you in it for? Do that work.
Perhaps use Sullivan as an inspiration and add on to her list for your station(s).
As I begin my new role as Vice President, Social for Cumulus Media, Westwood One, and the NASH brand, I know I have my own pearls of wisdom to share with company.
Let this be something to offer new hires as well as established employees during their yearly reviews. Transparency from management has never been more important than it is today.
Be honest and clear in what you expect of talent - but also -- don't be so controlling that you muzzle the ability to actually be entertaining. We will all make mistakes -- especially in the social space.
But we'll get closer to success every time we put ourselves out there and learn along the way.
Reach out to me anytime on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or Twitter.
Please enjoy MERGE archives here.