The effectiveness of earned versus paid space, especially on Facebook, is hot topic in PR. So, today I decided to click on a Facebook banner advertisement. It took me to a flog. No profile information from the author, no previous entries and an unusual amount of positive feedback on the day of the post. I tried leaving a comment… my browser crashed.
Being one of two interns on FH New York’s Digital team, I spend a lot of time online searching for key influencers. Most often, this time is spent in the blogosphere. Since contact information is essential for outreach, looking to a blogger’s profile is one of the first things I do. It’s developed into a habit, whether searching blogs for work or leisure. In a way, it has become a benchmark for credibility.
More recently, I’ve noticed that I’m much more critical of information coming from anonymous sources. In fact, unless the topic of conversation is celebrity gossip, I often skim right over them. Don’t get me wrong, the proof is in the pudding, and content wins above all else. However, even ambiguous descriptions and locations are great for giving some sort of context. In a space where building a sense of community is necessary, complete anonymity is no longer an option.
Hey Ms Zemlak. I really have been enjoying your last couple of posts. Keeping them short and catchy is really a great strategy.
I am not down with anonymous posts either. I have received a number of these on my blog and I find that people use them to spam or to offer criticism that is not constructive. If you are willing to say something you should be willing to stand behind it – which means putting your name on it.
Being the other FH Digital intern, I whole heartedly agree with your comments! It sure would make our job easier. Nice blog btw, I never knew you had one.
Anonymity is no longer an option
..because I know where you are what you look like and how talented and adventurious you are .
All my best to you
Love
Uncle Terry
I totally agree – I keep my list of trusted sources to a minimum, but what really shocks me is how often “flogs” are allowed to exist on reputable services.