(UPDATED: approx. 12:30 p.m. 4/17/07 with clarification on my point — at the end.)
I’ve done it. I’m sure we all have. Focus on one line or point — forget the rest — and the launch your critique. And, with Twitter, you can do it easier because the thoughts often are broken up into smaller pieces.
Courtesy of Tom Brio, I was made aware of a guest piece by PC Magazine Editor in Chief Jim Louderback at BC/AC’s blog called strumpette.
Louderback’s piece dealt with a seemingly off-the-cuff comment Twittered by Steve Rubel of Edelman/Micropersuasion:
“PC Mag is another. I have a free sub but it goes in the trash”
If you look at the stream of Rubel’s twitters, you’ll see he was not necessarily pointing out PC Magazine. He was talking about where he looked for his product reviews — going to blogs rather than print and other established media:
“Does anyone read CNET anymore? Webware rocks, but that’s the only site of theirs I visit.”
“PC Mag is another. I have a free sub but it goes in the trash” 05:44 AM April 13, 2007
“I search blogs for tech reviews when researching a product.” 05:45 AM April 13, 2007
Yes, Rubel was trying to strut his stuff, with a poor judgment of a comment. There are enough times when Rubel comes off as arrogant. And, this was one. So, if you’re going to be critical, be critical within the context of a piece; don’t single out one bit for the sake of a post.
My big point is that Steve Rubel’s initial comment was not so much about PC Magazine, but it was about established media in general (at least when it comes to tech product reviews). It is in that view that he is wrong.
Point to ponder: Don’t get bogged done by minutia. Look at the big picture — whether planning for a client/your employer, or ripping a blogger’s post or twitters.
Also, Rubel has a post, explaining his side.
– Mike
No Mike. Exactly the opposite. The lesson learned here is that bloggers should pay more attention to detail… especially if they are doing it in a professional setting.
Of course, if you personally prefer unprofessionalism… so be it. But then don’t grouse when that’s pointed out and you face the consequences.
- Amanda Chapel
AC,
Though you believe you disagree with me, I do agree with your main point. Attention to detail is important — within the context and perspective of the “big picture.”
Before we publish anything — ANYTHING — we should think twice about it. If we cannot stand by our words (or type), then we lose credibility. Out-of-character mistakes do happen, but we cannot ignore patterns of behavior or belief that emerge in our communication.
Thank you for the visit and comment.
Mike