In case you haven’t seen the news: The social-networking company secretly hired a public-relations firm to push stories critical of Google’s privacy practices. But the strategy backfired when bloggers and journalists disclosed Facebook’s behind-the-scenes role, forcing the company to explain its tactics. Facebook hired WPP Group PLC’s Burson-Marsteller to pitch journalists and security experts on stories… Continue reading Facebook PR Debacle: If not for Ethics Violations, Fire Them for Incompetence
Social-Loco: The Power of Conference
I spent yesterday at the Social-Loco conference enjoying listening industry luminaries and the technorati discuss the current and future state of social location services and their impact on our lives. From dozens of ad-hoc recommendations from Robert Scoble to two new product announcements from Marrisa Mayer of Google, it was easy to get lost in… Continue reading Social-Loco: The Power of Conference
Tainted by Financial Self-interest
Tom Foremski takes issue with financial bias in reporting – particularly in regard to start-up coverage. In his opinion, “The only acceptable bias is a thirst for a great story and selecting the best startups to write about.” Notwithstanding the fact that we all bring bias to virtually everything we do, I agree with Tom… Continue reading Tainted by Financial Self-interest
Osama bin Laden Dead
A “Historical Moment.” I, as everyone else, remember exactly where I was when I first heard the news of 9/11. And I have often wondered why, with all the full might and intelligence of our military, that we had yet to locate Osama bin Laden. But now, we have. I’m sure we’ll learn more in… Continue reading Osama bin Laden Dead
Live with Purpose, Die with Honor.
On April 7 I lost a former client as well as a friend and mentor. The world lost one of its truly great men, Brian Klemmer. A few days after Brian’s death, Brad Berens asked me about him. After going on about Brian and his impact for some time, I apologized to Brad for over… Continue reading Live with Purpose, Die with Honor.