Mike | - Part 2

Author Archive for Mike

Thoughts on corporate blogging

0 Comments Published by Mike March 8th, 2006 in General

A few interesting articles around the increasingly accepted practice of corporate blogging (whether as marketing devices or internal communications tools) are finding their way into conversations on the Web at the moment. The first, one CNN Money’s site (but originally a Fortune editorial, I think) is entitled Do’s and don’ts of corporate blogging.

The article reasons that some of the intitial hesitation shown by many corporates around blogging, in any capacity, has roots in what we were taught about communication back in ‘varsity:

“It’s scary,” says Technorati founder and CEO David Sifry. “The lesson
everyone learns in Marketing 101 is, ‘Control the message.’ Blogging
puts that on its head, and that’s very frightening.”

I like the following advice: “engage these pioneers (customers or employees who are already blogging) in a conversation about what your corporate blogs hope to accomplish, and why.”

The article goes on to provide some sound advice for organisations engaging in the new online conversation. It is a brief, informative read.

The second article, from The Washington Post, speaks about how savvy organisations are “Following online conversations… to grapple with the growing clout of their customers.” If you’re still not sure what they mean by growing clout, read the Cluetrain Manifesto.

Blogging, a symptom of an emerging trend in citizen participation fueled by the connective power of the Web, is only one of the many vehicles / channels companies can or should be using to better engage their key stakeholders. They key for any organisation is spotting these emerging trends and embracing the changes that come with them.

Frans the MAN

3 Comments Published by Mike March 3rd, 2006 in Meet the Avos

Frans Legodi

I am a third year HR student at the University Of Johannesburg. I enjoy writing, reciting and hearing poetry (you know the melody). I like keeping an open mind in every and any given situation, but if I’ve got an opinion I will say it. I get turned on when I’m strategising - I always think of ways to bring about change for the better!

I do everything and anything from: sales, facilitator and project support (how is that for an Apprenticeship programme!).

I am able to build on the skills I am learning at university. There is no better place to apply theory into practice, and I have experienced individuals to guide me through and show me a thing or two - okay maybe a lot more than a thing or two!!

Matchy Matchy Here I come

4 Comments Published by Mike March 2nd, 2006 in Meet the Avos

My strengths are MAXIMIZER, I do people not things. EMPATHY I understand, BUT… INDIVIDUALIZATION - I see your strengths before you… .RELATOR - its the people stuff. ACTIVATOR, Have you felt the pushing, shoving and kicking?

I have oodles of energy and enthusiasm, am insightful and have the ability to help people find their own solutions. I see the little things that others don’t and all the things that make up big issues. I understand that people’s productivity is linked to a balance in life , it’s something that I am very aware of.

I bring structure to Avo and nurture the Avo Pips. I am the sales manager and coach. I help people set goals and guide them in reaching their full potential.

It is amazing to be part of the Avo space. The freshness, magic and fairy dust are oh so real!!

Avo’s delivery on anything is 200%. There is no comfort zone at Avo and being there is a continuous learning experience.

Nomsa M: Air Traffic Control

3 Comments Published by Mike March 2nd, 2006 in Meet the Avos

My personality, the effect it has on people, If I smile I can get everyone around me to smile. I can change the mood of an entire room into a positive, energised and happy.

I was told that I am kind and gentle, which I agree with.

I am a great person to be around.

I’m the Conference Manager - I manage everything about the venue which is the preparations before, during and after Courses, meetings, Conference Hire.

The whole Avo environment, it’s a great place to be in because of its wonderful energy. There is so much caring and loving within the team and Avo’s will go above and beyond for eachother.

Everyone is special in their own way - making them an Avo pip! .

Instead of trying to destroy each other, we try and make each Avo succeed in what they do. Seeing everyone grow everyday, is exciting. That you are able to learn and gain experience in different parts of the business. The is no boundary in what you want to do.

I love the breath taking view!

Welcome to Avocado Vision!

4 Comments Published by Mike February 14th, 2006 in General

Hey Avo’s! Welcome to your new, improved, uber-sexy organic website, www.avovision.co.za. This is a new medium, it is not a traditional website, so it will take some adjusting. Have fun, experiment, add stuff, and watch it grow!!!.

If you are struggling please do not hesitate to email me with your questions.

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Purpose

Building and delivering training solutions that empower people with skills and insight to make better choices and live bigger lives. Being brave enough to take on the challenges at a scale that makes a significant impact in SA and beyond