Activism and Social Media

So I've been doing my research on Nestlé and their recent negative publicity. Blimey, what a storm they have faced (and are still facing). They have got PR Week reporting every move from GreenPeace, Nestlé and the Indonesian organisations sourcing Palm Oil.

For those that don't know what I'm talking about, just Google Nestle, Greenpeace and palm oil and you will quickly be updated (and witness a disturbing Greenpeace KitKat ad)

My point to all this is the Social Media surge with regards to this latest 'PR Crisis'. Facebook groups have been created hailing their anti- Nestlé campaigns, the Nestlé facebook page has been hijacked with negative comments, and Twitter and the blogosphere have gone nuts on this.

This story, which involves more parties than just Nestlé has spread like wildfire, within hours and days it has gone global. What this has resulted in is activism. Like-minded thinkers and activists have quickly gathered together to protest and ensure their views are witnessed. At a Nestlé HQ, protesters gathered dressed as Orangutans exclaiming 'Give us a break' on posters and signs (I'm sure you know which chocolate bar they're talking about)

This is extraordinary. Social Media (Facebook, twitter, blogs) have enabled groups to come together and discuss their grievances before going further with them.

This is Social Media in 2010, I wonder what Activism will look like in 10 years time?

Any thoughts?

A graduate on his first PR job...

Okay,

So I've always wanted to write a blog. Ever since seeing Julie and Julia I have felt inspired: 'I could write a blog... I have thoughts'.

Cliché as it may seem, but nevertheless I want to share my experiences with whoever is out there on my journey in the PR industry.

Technically my first job was a week's work experience at a small PR agency in Bristol, England. I then went on to do my Masters in Marketing Communications, which for all the American's out there I am almost at the point where I can say ABD (All but dissertation).

I start my new position on 24th May 2010, exactly 2 days after my final exam. I have been appointed as 'Social Media and PR intern'. I can't wait... I just wish I could knock off the 'intern' part there!

Twitter, Facebook and the blogosphere fascinate me; hence the reason I am blogging about it. It will be my diary, and to share experiences on how Social Media is used: the good points and the bad points.

You may be thinking: this has already been done. But I want to add a 'fresh meat' to the industry approach.

This is just me introducing myself. I can't wait to start on May 24th and embarking on this journey and sharing it.