The Buzz Bin

For all of the excitement and “buzz” about social media, there are plenty of people who think that there’s more to it than waxing poetic. Jeremiah Owyang examines some of the pros and cons of various components of the Web 2.0 craze, including blogging. The idea that “blogs are only as authentic as the humans behind them” is certainly important to note. When people are given the opportunity to participate in the conversation and be interactive, does it add or detract from the authenticity of reporting the facts or debate?

A great example of a positive use of corporate messaging for corporate blogs is highlighted by the controversy with Toyota and GM over an op-ed in the New York Times last week. Toyota’s dedication to fuel-friendly and environmentally efficient cars has been challenged by its decision to work with the Big Three U.S. automakers (GM) in lobbying against the tougher mileage standards in the Senate’s draft energy bill. Irv Miller, VP from Toyota took the opportunity to publicly reply via his blog, as did GM author Tom Wilkinson.

Speaking of corporate blogging, Debbie Weil of The Corporate Blogging Book has provided a recap of five ways for CEOs to measure the success of their blogs. In addition to analytics programs, she cites the importance of links and comments.

The importance of understanding the relationship between journalists and PR flacks is examined here by Idea Grove’s Media Orchard blog. The best PR agencies are full of good former journalists who are able to delicately balance media and corporate goals, while maintaining their integrity and ability to make an impact.

Also from Media Orchard, a post effectively calling out top PR firms for their lack of, shall we say, finesse in updating and maintaining their corporate Wikipedia pages. Although the pages may not be “official” in nature, the development, updating and accuracy can surely be monitored by savvy PR flacks. After all, isn’t public relations about “managing” the message, and the public?

In case you missed it, Jeff Pulver issued an excellent code of conduct for Facebook friending. As the app.-happy network continues to expand expect more people to draw the line as to what they’ll tolerate from their new “friends.”