Last one of the year… The love-in!

Taken a little time offline recently, but want to put out one final thing for this year… Just a small shout of appreciation for some who’ve really made a difference to my year.

Bill Boorman – unstinting generosity with his knowledge and connections and a supportive friend to those in need.

Jonny Campbell – partner in crime for a few events this year. A font knowledge, a ball of energy and a thoroughly decent guy.

Katharine Robinson – the smartest sourceress of her age (apologies to JK Rowling!). Always open to ideas and often a much needed voice of reason.

Crystal Miller – an appetite for life, the universe and everything which has scarce been matched. Energises all those lucky enough to spend time in her company.

Eze Vidra – the man behind techbikers. Achieved a truly wonderful thing in a very short space of time, the highlight of many people’s year. Made a huge impact on me. A cracking support team around him, too many wonderful people to mention – you know who you are.

Finally, heading the field – Jamie Leonard. It’d damage his reputation if I truly offered the compliments he deserves for his unstinting help and support this year, so I’ll hold back on the bromance and simply offer my thanks. Man of the Year, no question.

2012, you’ve been emotional. To all out there, especially those not mentioned – may 2013 bring you all you wish for.

How to describe a community managers role?

Reading an article this morning about the joys of monitoring managing social media, illustrated by this image – wanted to share. Whilst it outlines the various roles in a community rather well, I believe it misses the mark with the referee.

Photo copyright 2010. Alana Fisher.

The ethos expounded by Bill Boorman focusses on the role of  the Community DJ – which personally, I think far better captures the role.  Community Manager implies control, direction.  DJ suggests the role is more about creating the right environment for a community to thrive. Indeed, in many of the better matches I’ve seen (whether football or otherwise) the referee creates a flowing game, rather than an exhibition in control.

Also – as I recently discovered, Paul Jacobs deserves the credit for ” Community DJ”.

What makes the perfect community manager or DJ in your world?