Manchester Social Media Cafe – first impressions
I have been meaning to get down to Social Media Cafe Manchester for some time but events conspire against me. Still I overcame the odds and made it.
I was not sure what to expect exactly. It was probably an unusual initiation as it turned out. I did not break off into any of the groups but just had a chat with some of the attendees, it proved to be an enjoyable and productive evening if you are going to put values on things.
I had the opportunity to speak to Manoj Ranaweera, who I have been aware of for some time (through the Internet and social media sites) but somehow never met – a few name drops showed we share many associates, contacts and friends.
Manoj talked me through his Edocr document sharing site or as he puts it a “kind of document You Tube.” With traditional media under pressure Manoj’s concept is certainly a welcome tool for pushing out content. I will be exploring and I am sure using shortly.
I also got to talk to another journalist / PR freelancer Carolyn Hughes. Carolyn has an interesting mixture of work and is in part guided by doing projects that she has a personal interest in pursuing. It is interesting (repetition of “interest ” but cannot think of an alternative) speaking to other freelancers.
A special note about Craig McGinty, who was present. Craig is about to move to France – a sensible move as his main blog is “This French Life.”
I know Craig will be on Twitter, e-mail, blogging, Facebook, probably LinkedIn but I must say I will miss hearing his wisdom over a pint or as he says a “sherbet.” Craig is really knowledgeable about social media and also generous and honest with his advice. I can only hope some of his views have permeated my intellect such as it is over teh past couple of years.
A mention for Mario Cacciottolo and his Someone Once Told Me site, which features an interesting quotes and photography project.
Last but not least Matt from Orchard Suits and Richard Hudson from Vanilla Storm who gallantly helped me prop up the bar.
I think I will be going again, especially if I can get there for the pre-match meal as organised by Sarah Hartley, the former Manchester Evening News online editor.
My only question is, “Does this count as work?”
Tags: Manchester, social media cafe
May 18th, 2009 at 9:17 am
I seem to have the same problem with SMC. Went to the first one but haven’t been since, as every time it seems to clash with something I am obliged to attend.
I wasn’t hugely convinced of the value of the first event I went to, but to put it into context, I know of a number of people who have since attended (very expensive) social media conferences to learn about how to use social media in business/marketing. Not one of them has reported any value from the events.
Better then to get amongst the people using social media, than here those late to the party come and talk about how they have crow-barred it in to their own marketing strategies.
May 18th, 2009 at 6:11 pm
Tom,
I cannot speak for social media events but I try and learn from people like Jim Symcox and Craig McGinty.
I meant to listen to the talks but just had a chat with other attendees. Was this best way to use the event? Still we are all learning, I will keep my ears open and try to get better.
Rob