Where Do You Stand?

A recent conversation with my mother-in-law had me thinking about the way journalism has evolved over the past few years. Are those who are in the social media world (i.e. bloggers, online news gatherers, etc.) changing the role and definition of “journalist?”

According to Wikipedia, a journalist is “a person who practises journalism, the gathering and dissemination of information about current events, trends, issues and people.” It goes on to identify journalists as reporters and columnists, as well as editors and visual journalists (photographers, graphic artists and page designers).

The entry does acknowledge modern media and “citizen journalists” who offer grassroots, non-corporate coverage. The consensus through a quick survey on Twitter (thanks, Susan!) indicates that many people prefer the term “citizen journalist.” However, some argue that “citizen journalists” can’t be called journalists, because they aren’t held to the standards and norms found in the Society of Professional Journalists ethical code.

But consider the recent earthquakes around Illinois and Missouri. I’ve heard rumblings around the office that the earthquake was first reported on Twitter - they beat the radio stations, TV crews and newspapers.

So, what do you call these modern news-gatherers? Are they journalists? What about conversation-starters? Or perhaps you like the term citizen reporters?

Talk amongst yourselves…

In a world of TV shows, radio programs, the Internet, revolving billboards and restroom advertising, there’s no doubt that we’re overwhelmed with marketing messages (studies indicate numbers anywhere between 600 and 3,000 messages per day). So how does a company cut through all of that clutter? 

Let’s rewind to last week. My co-workers and I had the pleasure of participating in one of Chipotle’s marketing efforts. Zach, the regional marketing manager, brought in boxes and bags full of food, information and other goodies. As we set up the conference room, it occurred to me that Zach is more than just a regional marketing manager – he’s actually a brand ambassador.  

Some may argue that brand ambassadors must be celebrities. I would venture to say that a brand ambassador is anyone who represents your company and strives to create brand loyalty. They are charged with using every customer touch point to strengthen the brand and build relationships with current and potential customers.  

In this case, Chipotle used its employee as a brand ambassador. And there’s no doubt that they gained a few new friends last week.  

In fact, I think I just saw Beth walk in with a burrito…

It’s easy to fall into a rut – that’s where I was last year. While I enjoyed my job and adored my co-workers, I knew that it was time for a change. I needed new challenges and wanted to soak up as much information as I could. I shared this with a handful of close friends who bombarded me with tons of good advice.

One friend in particular, D, had some personal interactions with Standing Partnership – she knew they were looking for someone and asked if she could pass along my resume. To be honest, I scoffed a little bit – I really didn’t want to stay in agency life. In fact, I had another opportunity that I eagerly anticipated. But I thought I’d humor her and sent her an updated resume – it was the best move I could have made.

Before I knew it, I was huddled in a secluded corner of a hotel lobby in Memphis doing my first phone interview. Soon after, I was in the Standing Partnership office, meeting lots of new faces. Here’s the funny thing… I felt completely comfortable in the office, talking with my soon-to-be co-workers. Then came the interview with The Boss – but it was nothing like I expected! Cathy was very welcoming, sharing details of how the company was born and how it’s grown. She shared her thoughts on culture and philosophy of Standing Partnership – and then I really knew I was at home. It’s been four months since I’ve joined Standing, but it feels like I’ve been here forever.

I firmly believe, now more than ever, that things happen for a reason. Thanks, D.

A company’s culture is a pretty good indicator of its core values. As the new kid on the block, I’m still learning the ins and outs of our culture. Do my colleagues want to chat in the morning? Can I walk into my colleague’s office or do I need to schedule a time? What sort of approval process do I need to go through to participate in professional development opportunities?

The more I learn about our culture, the more impressed (and surprised) I become.

Example: Imagine my surprise this morning when our president walked into my office to deliver company news. We weren’t able to hold a staff meeting, so she personally delivered the news to each employee. You may be thinking, “So what?” Her action reinforced the company’s value of creating an open environment, which is just one component of our company’s culture.

That being said, I’ve observed a few things during the short time I’ve been here:

Every now and then, you’ll see me post comments about Southwest Airlines – its customer service, innovation, etc. The Business Civic Leadership Center provides a great case study on the way Southwest’s corporate culture affects employee morale, business performance and the bottom line.

How does your culture stack up?