Albert Einstein once said, “I fear the day when technology surpasses our human interaction. The world will have a generation of idiots.” This quote resonates with me because, in the constantly evolving world of social media, I sometimes see the “social” aspect missing. Have you ever found yourself alone in a crowded room, a party or restaurant and noticed just how many people were more occupied with their smartphones than with observing what’s around them? Have you felt disconnected or almost panicked when you forgot your phone at home? In a world where we are always connected, we’re all guilty of it, but there is a time and a place for using these platforms. Social media is simply one tool in the PR toolbox.
Month: March 2013
Second Helpings
Joe Biden, Ethel Mertz, Tonto, Ron Weasley, Ed McMahon, The Bad Cop, Rhoda Morgenstern – dependable sidekicks all.
The recent sad news of Valerie Harper’s ill health has me thinking about sidekicks.
Wikipedia says sidekicks can perform one or multiple functions, providing a counterpoint to the hero, an alternate point of view, or knowledge, skills, or anything else the hero does not have. Such as a love of processing invoices. But I digress.
TV sidekicks usually play a supporting role to the star. I like to think that’s what I do at Buchanan Public Relations. And, in a first for seconds, this spring’s meeting of the Public Relations Global Network will acknowledge the role of the second-in-command by offering a separate track for us. I can’t wait to spend time with my fellow second bananas from around the globe. I’m sure our sessions will be second to none.
15 Changes I’ve Seen in 15 Years
This month marks the 15th anniversary of Buchanan Public Relations. Much has happened since I set up shop in a spare bedroom of my home a decade-and-a-half ago. Now, ten of us – and two dogs – sit in “real” office space. The anniversary got me to thinking. Here are 15 big changes I’ve witnessed in the last 15 years.
Bring On Spring!
For years when I had the freedom of a freelance writer, I would begin each year by drawing big black Xs on my calendar through the first week of March. In Philadelphia, that’s when the Flower Show comes to town.