Wise, wise words!

I love your idea of a mid-wife helping others embrace Web 2.0. What an awesome way to be the link between the past and the present and we need more people with your ability to do that. However, one has to identify that he or she needs a social media midwife first and that is the challenge. We cannot help people who do not want help. I think fear is the biggest reason why people do not embrace change. Fear of losing control, fear of the unknown, fear of making a mistake.

I am seeing some smart organization executives step forward and say, “We need to learn about this Web 2.0 world and new media.” They form unique partnerships with young savvy Web 2.0 people. They mentor these techies and teach them the business side of the organization and the techies help the executives learn the Web 2.0 world. Again, identifying that one needs to do things differently is the first step.

@Maggie McGary
Thanks for the kinds words. Yes, I agree that her words sounded dated and showed an attitude that does not sit well with most people in today’s society. I also heard a lot of fear in those words and one who was trying to hold back the tide of change.

And I’m sorry but I’m lmao at “bring my concerns behind the association’s membership walls and follow a chain of hierarchy to voice my matters privately.” Sounds to me a lot like “women should do what their husbands tell them to do” or “children should be seen and not heard.”

I do worry about those being left behind the SM train. It’s hard to lose face in being so adamantly wrong – and have to step forward later perhaps in shame.

I think there need to be more mid-wives in the process making it feel safe to explore. Many who “get it” project energy of looking down on those who don’t. Who will serve as a gentle translator and build the bridge for those left behind?

For those not fond of change and exciting new things, this can be a very scary time. (Not that they would admit it of course.)

Just honoring your position – and perhaps walking a few steps in her shoes too.

Cynthia

anyway, also wanted to quote norman mailer, who once said, “writing a book is like prizefighting. win or lose, you’re going to take a beating.” if you do truly “engage” with your audience, there wil be times when that engagement will expose negativity. historically speaking, cutting edge artists, scientists and philosophers have generally been arrested at least once. you’re in good company. – jl

@Michael McCurry
Thanks for the great feedback. I agree with you that learning to embrace change is important for all organizations. Change happens!

@Justin Locke
Very well stated. Thoughtful and insightful. Thank you for adding to the discussion.

I find it rather ironic that any person would find your blog “obscure” as it is anything but that.

I have been reading your blog posts for quite some time now and I say unhesitatingly they are thought provoking and refreshing. As Betsy Myers stated in the WEC opening General Session we are in the “new now” …. life is just not the same as it was 6 months ago and it never will be … your blog embodies that spirit!

The traditional “top down” approach to communication and “controlled” approach to interactivity just does not cut it. We can’t afford to sweep our problems and challenges under a rug and just hope they will go away. We need to talk openly about them and collaborate with our colleagues to figure out where to go next in this life journey.

The only way associations are going to remain relevant and sustain or grow their memberships is by embracing change, encouraging free collaboration amongst their members and synthesize the ideas presented into a workable action plan to catapult their organizations to a newer, higher level.

Running from new ideas, technologies and business models is not only foolish, but a race an organization can’t win.

Mike McCurry
http://twitter.com/michaelmccurry