This is the Place

Some social sector causes are evaluating putting their entire online presence on Facebook.  Instead of trying to bridge their followers between Facebook and an organization’s external website, these enterprises are using Facebook as the platform from which to manage their entire online presence.  This is not a strategy for everyone but may be viable for those with the right needs.  Facebook controls 16% of the US share of all time spent online.

Post-Post Update: Interesting data about Facebook users and their propensity to “like” you organization.

If We Are Wrong?

At the 2011 BoardSource Leadership Forum, Richard Chait suggested that enterprises ask themselves, “what if we are wrong?”  He suggested that we review the assumptions the leadership of the cause has assembled.  What if the organization’s game plan is using a playbook with the wrong strategy?  If we have made the wrong assumptions all the dedicated work will still lead to a failed outcome.  

You Matter
Centennial Olympic Park

For me, seeing a person leave a hotel to go for a run while I am traveling, or a cyclist heading out on the streets provides both inspiration to get out and run/bike but also a assurance that there are viable routes.  Some places feel daunting and not easy to navigate but when you start seeing others who have taken the leap, it creates certainty that it is achievable.  Who inspires you?  More importantly, who are you inspiring?  You may never know all the people you have empowered to take action just because they caught a glimpse of you in action.  Showing-up may be the most motivating step you can take.

Relax
Do Not Enter

Want to make some room on your strategic plan?  Stop trying to get everybody to “like”, “friend”, donate, volunteer, or contribute to your cause.  You do not need everyone.  Most politicians require a majority to be elected but not everyone who votes.  They understand that not everyone believes what they believe.  Spend your time with those who share your purpose.  It will be far more rewarding and productive.  Imagine if you spent most of your time nurturing your tribe.  Who might the members invite to join you?  Who would they also know not to invite?

Which Meassage?
Castell de Montjuic

One of the reasons I am intrigued by the process of assisting enterprises and individuals define their purpose is that it provides a platform for consistent communication.  When we are uncertain of what we believe then it is common to communicate whatever feels right at the moment, which tends to be be more confusing to our customers than we realize.