Random thoughts on the IABC International Conference

No, I am not live-blogging the conference. First of all, I’m not motivated enough to do that (I prefer to sit and listen, not type). Secondly, the wireless connection seems spotty. I admire those who continue to work full-time AND blog while attending the conference. As for me, well, I like to think about things, roll them around in my mind, and then blog. Different strokes.

Some random observations:

Shel Holtz, Neville Hobson and Allan Jenkins did an admirable job of talking about social media at a session yesterday. I was amazed that about half the people in the room of 100+ communicators did not know what RSS was. Those of us who know and love social media MUST be careful about the assumptions we make about up-take and understanding. Anyway, the guys were very effective at explaining the technology and its application. Bravo. ( Joseph Thornley, bless his soul, blogged the session.)

As an aside, I had the opportunity to meet Shel, Neville and Allan at the networking reception at the Vancouver Aquarium last night, then to dine with them and others at the Café de Paris. What a surreal feeling to meet people with whom you’ve had an online relationship for more than a year. I truly felt as though I were having dinner with old friends. Nice.

Raj Subramaniam of FedEx was terrifically inspiring as this year’s Excel Award winner. He is a shining example of a senior leader who truly believes in the value of communications. His speech was uplifting and genuine.

My podcasting/radio hero Tod Maffin never disappoints. He was our Lunch and Learn speaker today at a sold-out session. Chatting with my tablemates before lunch, I mentioned that I’d met Tod before (and have spent a day with him at a seminar) and said we were in for a treat. Everyone nodded politely. A few minutes later, they were crying with laughter and nodding their heads in recognition of the communication truths spoken by Tod. I would not be surprised if he were voted Top Speaker of the Conference, if there is such an honour. Anyone who is interested in public speaking should watch Tod and learn from a master. His sense of timing and his story-telling abilities are awesome. (Again, check Joseph's ProPR blog for details. Thanks, Joseph!)

Well, jet lag is taking its toll – as is the 15 minutes I spent trapped in a packed elevator today (it felt like an hour), so I will leave further comments for another day. Kindly excuse any typos, eh?