Tag Archives: Social Media

Freakonomics’ Last Word On Partial RSS Feeds

A few weeks ago I analyzed Freakonomics’ dilema over its subscribers’ protest of the blogs’ move from full to partial RSS feeds, inherent with its new partnership under the NYTimes online umbrella. Yesterday Freakonomics coauthoer Stephen Dubner explained their final decision not to revert back to full RSS feeds, at least in the short term:

But can’t they [NYTimes] sell ads on a full feed, so that feed readers can still get all the content they want delivered to their computers for free without having to visit a single web site?

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Facebook: It’s Far Easier To Befriend Versus Solicit Reasons For Befriending

Why would anyone want to be my friend?

I’ve been writing a lot about social networks and friends lately, so I thought I’d ask all my Facebook friends, specifically: “What’s the lure to being my friend?” I pinged my friends as well as posted the question on my Facebook profile page.… Read the rest

Defensive Branding: Troubleshooting Your Brand In The Age of Consumer Control

I’m on vacation, so I’ll keep this short and sweet, direct to you from For Immediate Release, the authoritative podcast on public relations in new media:

In this age of transparency, it’s harder than ever for brands to defend themselves.

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EVENT: Rising Concern Over Advertising To Kids

Critics fiercely argue the childhood obesity epidemic may be attributed directly to advertising, and that government intervention and regulation is needed immediately. As a new parent, I resonate with this stance. My son is only nine months old, but already I notice his susceptibility to colorful food packaging and promotions as we walk down grocery aisles.… Read the rest

‘Friend’ is Passé… ‘Officer’ Is The New Friend

“Friending” in social networks is passé. My esteemed colleague Pete Blackshaw wrote recently in ClickZ:

Lately I’ve been getting so many darn friend and connection invites that my head is spinning. From LinkedIn to Facebook to the all-too-common (and bogus) MySpace invite from the girl “who just broke up with [her] boyfriend and is just looking for fun,” it’s all getting a bit crazy.

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