Reaction to Kaplan article

Kaplan’s article about social media and the problems and opportunities that comes with its usage provided useful insight for any person or organization that is using social media in its public relations and communications plan. I found the “ten pieces of advice for companies deciding to use Social Media” section to be especially interesting. Although I am sure that most companies and organizations see the benefits of using social media and realize that it is not something that is going to go away anytime soon, I think it can be an intimidating task for some organizations depending on their structure.

From my experience working with a non-profit organization, I was able to see first hand how it could be challenging to use social media. When an organization is short-staffed or dependent on interns that come and go, it can be extremely difficult to ensure message consistency and regular posting activity.  Despite these challenges, social media is an important tool, especially for organizations with little to no budget for advertising, public relations and communications. It is especially important for these organizations to have a set plan of how social media will be used for the organization. A good plan will address what the policy will be for responding to posts from other people or organizations, what the messages will be, how often posts will be made and making sure a staff member is responsible for social media accounts during times when no intern is available.

http://prnewmedia.pbworks.com/w/file/fetch/44898094/Kaplan.pdf

http://motherjones.com/blue-marble/2011/09/millions-are-starving-horn-africa

There are many reasons why the news that is in the mainstream is there, whether it is to serve some agenda or because it is sexy, it is there for a reason. Food crises are nothing new in parts of Africa, but currently in the Horn of Africa there is a serious food shortage the likes of which has not been seen since in modern times. The death toll is staggering and continues to grow each day. Children make up a large number of the dead and dying.

So why aren’t we hearing all about this? Mainstream media and news has included extremely little coverage of the crisis. Even on social media, which gives voices to the ordinary person – people aren’t really talking.  The article shows Google trends statistics comparing Somalia (which is where a large number of the affected are located) and reality star Kim Kardashian. As you have probably guessed, Kim Kardashian beat out Somalia by a margin that is not even remotely close.

If @KimKardashian Tweeted about the famine, would the public be more aware of this staggering humanitarian crisis? Further, what does all of this say about the importance and potential of social media? From a public relations point of view, do you think that organizations that work to alleviate hunger and suffering should more seriously consider celebrity impact and social media in public relations campaigns?