Guest post by Lauren Vargas
Kami has some incredibly talented ladies lined up to guest post for the next couple of weeks. So talented, I must admit, that writing the first guest post is a a bit intimidating. I asked my significant other (also a fan of Kami's blog) what topic I should address. His response was, “my favorite posts by Kami are those where she comes up with something ‘simple' and gives importance to it.” Right on.
“Whoever is out of patience is out of possession of his soul. Men must not turn into bees who kill themselves in stinging others.” -Jonathan Swift
Lately, I have felt the echo chamber has turned into killer bees or jackals feeding off the blood and weakness of others. (I won't reference the commentary I am reminded of because that would just give more glory to those people where none is deserved.) Of course, there are those that are trying to see the glass as half full. Such posts cheer me up on a rough day.
No, I am not advocating all hold hands and sing kumbaya nor am I writing a post requesting world peace like some beauty contestant. I am just pleading with my peers…take a minute to quiet your mind before you speak. Acting impulsively with hostility will only come back to haunt you. Everything here is permanent and people have long memories. You will regret acting with impatience when it comes time you need the help of the offended person. And there will come such a time.
We coach our clients to be careful of what is said and done to protect reputation. Why are we not keeping closer watch on our own reputations? Being in the communications industry, you are “on” 24/7. Have you ever considered that the impulse to say something unkind comes from your own guilt and unease? It is tough to look in the mirror, I know, but it is better to pause and be social than unsocial.
(Photo courtesy siskokid.)
Lauren Vargas, Community Relations Manger at the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) and principal of 12Comm Public Relations, is based in Dallas, Texas. She is a well known public relations blogger and speaker who has developed an expertise in integrating social media tools into marketing and business strategy.