Communication Overtones Comments
Nice work, Kami - I guess my question is what makes these rules unique to social media? Wouldn't they apply if you switched out the word "blogger" and replaced it with "reporter"?
The fascinating thing I've found is people seem to think the basic ethical principles of communication online are somehow different. They're really not.
The real issue I see is people try to do "blogger relations" or whatever it's called on the cheap, since it's not outreach to a mainstream reporter. So they take shortcuts, and that's when the ethical problems start.
Yes?
Good stuff Kami. I am still surprised that there are those who don't understand the basics at this point.
What seems like common sense to many of us working in social applications is completely lost on those who only want to leverage them for their own purposes without really being involved.
Thanks for adding another great resource for understanding the role of social applications in PR and marketing.
It all comes down to the basic principles.
This is a great guide for those testing the waters with bloggers. There is so much negativity surrounding blogger relations topics, so I dig Tip #7 "opportunity to have a conversation!"
I would add - Don't burn bridges or be caught talking smack online!
This is a great list. I've been seeing more posts with good advice like this lately, perhaps a reaction to all the bloggers "outing" bad pitches? Regardless, it's needed and good to see. Hopefully people start listening and improving their practices.
David; Many of these tips can and should be used with reporters too. At least they get paid to deal with all of this stuff. Blogggers and other micro media outlets are usually doing it for the interest and love of it all and couldn't be bothered with a bunch of hacks.
Chris; You are right that the basics have to be revisted. There are new entrants to social media everyday. What we once had to evangelize is now becoming hot. I give these guidelines to my clients.
Hi Kami - This reminded me of a post that I plan to write soon, but for now I only have the title:
"I'm No Expert, But I Play One in the Blogosphere."
I like it, wish I had thought of it myself. The era of the self appointed expert is upon us.
I don't mean to offend, but I would only keep numbers 1, 5, 7 and 10. The ones about being transparent, deceptive means, and pretending to read the blog all go together. Commenting on other things and never leave unrelated comments are synonymous, and if you read the blog, you'll do this anyway -- if you comment. Commercial-sounding and formulaic are also the same. And of course, don't pester. I say, never offer free stuff unless you're asking to test a product. It comes across as weak, sort of like one of those trial displays you find at the cash register. And yes-yes-yes, read the blog.
I'm surprised there's not more on timing or the selection of bloggers to pitch process. What else?
Mich, I love it when my readers simplify things 
Really, you are somewhat right, but some of this is regarding comments and some is regarding pitching. It could be more clear.
As to timing, that is a bit more advanced, this is meant for newbies that need a quick course on the culture.
Kami, this is very helpful. Like most teaching, we all need to repeat these "rules" again and again for it to stick. Keep it up.
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