Lobal Warming

You may have caught wind of last week’s Facebook meme, Celebrity Doppelganger Week, when Facebook users switched their profile photo out with their famous look-alike.  The trend went viral as users all over the world swapped our their pictures.

Here’s the Facebook status update that showed up in many of my friends’ newsfeeds:

“It’s Doppelganger week on Facebook.  Change your profile picture to someone famous (actor, musician, athlete, etc.) you’ve been told you look like.  After you update your profile with your twin or switched at birth photo, then cut and paste this to your status.”

Logging in last week, I got a kick out of updates from bosom bodies like Winona Ryder, Michael Jackson, Quentin Tarantino, Lucille Ball, even Gilligan.   Curiosity got the better of me, and I had to find my doppelganger.  I considered Mary Ann from Gilligan’s Island, but couldn’t get past the pigtails or into the tight shorts.  Some have said I resemble the late Natalie Wood, but I googled her and twins we’re not.  Woody Woodpecker!  He’s an animated redhead!  His photo graced my Facebook profile until my friends’ inappropriate jokes began.

Who thinks of these things?  Curious about the newest Facebook fad, I googled Doppelganger Week and found many taking credit for this fad including Stephen Devereux of Sacramento, California, who claims he and his friends are responsible.  “I look like Robert Downey, Jr. So I thought it might be fun to see what other people have been told they look like.  No group think, no fancy viral campaign.  Just a couple of bored friends goin’ through old movies/imdb pages to draw comparisons for fun.”

The games people play.

Coincidentally, Facebook published an interview last week with University of Texas at Austin professor Sam Gosling about the psychology behind people’s Facebook profiles.  Gosling’s recent research shows that people are expressing their real personalities on social networks, not inflated personas.   ”Facebook profiles correlate pretty strongly with our measure of what the person is really like, and that measure consists of both how the profile owner sees him or herself and how that profile owner’s friends see the profile owner.”

Yup, I checked.  Gosling didn’t switch out his photo for Freud. 

Sure, the term “political correctness” is rife with negative connotations, but the concept of using words that don’t offend or that reinforce a disadvantageous stereotype is common sense.  Thus, my confusion over the report that White House chief of staff Rahm Emanuel called a group of liberal activists “f—cking retarded.”  Here’s a guy who had to have been bullied at some point in his younger years.  Emanuel was raised Jewish, had his middle finger amputated, won a scholarship to the Joffrey Ballet, and (gulp) has a master’s in Speech and Communication from Northwestern University.  A ballet dancer with no middle finger . . .wouldn’t you think he’d be a little sensitive?  Think again.  His “take no prisoners approach” earned him the nickname “Rahmbo.”

Last year, the Special Olympics launched the campaign, “Spread the Word to End the Word,” to raise our consciousness about the negative effects of the word “retard.”    Well aware of the campaign, one of Emanuel’s first calls was to Tim Shriver, head of the Special Olympics, who graciously accepted his apology on behalf of the disabled community.

Clearly, Emanuel’s remark was overblown by the media.  But his comment was hurtful to those affected, and the media circus has been successful in raising awareness around this issue.  It’s not a matter of political correctness but clear communication – knowing your audience and choosing words that reflect what you want to communicate.

Nothing says home like the smell of bread baking in the oven, or this week’s gathering of 200 passionate volunteers at IABC’s Leadership Institute.  Thrilled to escape the - 9C temperatures in Ketchum, and reconnect with some of my favorite people, I’m in San Diego this week to coach, learn, recharge, and gaze longingly at the beach.

Last night’s Welcome Reception, planned perfectly by Janna White and Gretchen Hoover, was a picture postcard - deckside, lush gardens and beautiful views of Mission Bay.  Missing daily interaction with the human race (I’m convinced they’re sub-human in Ketchum), I jumped on the opportunity to greet leaders with a drink ticket.  What better way to get in IABCers’ hearts then to buy them a drink.  Catching up with dedicated leaders like Michelle Bernhart, Tom Keefe, Suzanne Poggio, Jeffrey Ory, Preston Lewis, Mark Schumann and Adrian Cropley reminded me of the intrinsic good in our association, the enduring friendships, and personal and professional support.  

Yes, I’m a lucky woman.

Must run.  Day two of the conference is beginning.  I can hear the beat of the distant drums!

The new year brought a fresh start as I moved from the senior vp education role at IABC, to vice president of sponsorship, and from sunny California to a blend of sub-zero and sub-torrid climates.  Usually one to dodge change, the job transition was surprisingly effortless, as was letting go of the headache of corralling 2 plus million dollars in non-dues revenue in a down economy.  The hardest part?  Saying goodbye to IABC’s incomparable staff who embody the heart and soul of our membership.  While we still connect remotely, I miss their creative energy, collaboration and irreverent humor, not to mention the bagels and happy hours. 

In ushering in the new, it’s a pleasure handing the reins to IABC’s new vice president of professional development - Michele Cushnie.  Before joining IABC, Michele was manager of instructional delivery and e-learning at the Technology Transfer Program at UC Berkeley, and has her doctorate in philosophy and HR development.  She’s tasked with creating innovative lifelong learning opportunities for members, using new, cost-effective delivery platforms.  And from her credentials, I’d say she’s up to the task.  Join me in welcoming Michele, and supporting her efforts to shape your development and IABC’s future. 

Nestled snugly inside on a blizzarding day in Ketchum, my thoughts drift from work to wonder at the beauty of the Boulder Mountains climbing to nearly 12,000 feet.  I’m suddenly struck by how little time I’ve spent in life taking in the scenery and delighting in its simple splendor.

As 20 years raced by, I sprinted to catch up, driven by an unrelenting need for the golden touch.  It was the working mom’s paradox.  The belief I could do it all well, while knowing damn well I couldn’t get it all done.  A demanding career, long commute, frequent business travel, overscheduled rugrats, PTA, community work, maid, cook, chauffeur and nurse.  Sound familiar?  Finding time for close friends was sometimes a chore.  And on those occasions when I should’ve caught my breath and marveled at the view from the inside out, instead I chose to run.  Literally.  Marathons, what else?

Ironic that it wasn’t until now, with my children grown and the pace slowing, that I’m exploring the senses of touch, sight, smell and sound.   I’ve discovered the joy in lingering.  I can actually smell rain, and feel snow on my skin.  And I’m learning to mock the mockingbirds and make clouds disappear.

Take the time - while it’s yours to take - to slow down and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.  What?  You say you’re too busy?

One of my choice pasttimes is list-making.  Lists calm me, excite me, and capture those fleeting thought bubbles.  This month, Lake Superior State University (LSSU) released its 35th annual List of Words to be Banished from the Queen’s English for Mis-Use, Over-use and General Usefulness.   This year’s words were selected by LSSU’s banished word “czars” and “czarinas” from thousands of nominated words and phrases.  

In our noble pursuit of clear writing, let’s dishonor some of this year’s losers:

Leading the pack of overused phrases is “shovel-ready,” referring to ready-to-break-ground infrastructure projects fueled by “stimulus” funds from President Obama’s administration.  And yes, “stimulus” also made the list, as did “Obamacare,” “Obamanomics,” and other obamanations that palin comparison to past bushisms.

Even “tweetaholics” are weary of the tediously annoying language spurred by Twitter - terms like “tweet,” “retweet,” “twittersphere,” and other variations.  Equally intolerable are nouns angrily twisted into verbs, as in “I unfriended my ex on Facebook.” Ouch.

Speechwriters rejoice!  You now have permission to retire tired terms like “in these economic times,” and “transparency” which the wordsmiths said is typically used “when the situation is anything but transparent.”  And while you’re at it, eliminate the phrase “teachable moment” which now “describes everything from potty training to politics,” and sent Robert Havighurst spinning in his grave. 

What’s missing from the 2010 list?  I’d add ”authentic,” “holistic,” “literally,” “at the end of the day,” and “it is what it is.”  What buzzwords would you banish? 

It struck me one day that I was restless and in, what my good friend Sam Harrison terms, a comfortable rut. While my discovery had been incubating for years, the realization was sudden and satisfying.  It happened after a technology demo with a virtual conference company - you know, one of those cutting-edge, 3D  revolutionary providers that are fostering the unfortunate comeback of the Lanz nightgown?

After the demo, IABC’s president gushed enthusiastically, and encouraged me to host a pajama party (aka a virtual event) in tandem with our June 2010 World Conference.  Instead of a kneejerk, you’ve-got-to-be-kidding-me retort, the angels belted out Hallelujah and I saw a winged, pioneering education visionary leading our members and profession into the next decade.  So after 21 glorious years, I resigned the senior vice president education role as of December 31, and skipped out of her office.

You see, I’ve been smug about IABC’s position among for-proft and nonprofit conference competitors for years.  Our programs draw crowds and receive top marks, our speakers are highly regarded, and sponsors seek us out.  Complacency trumped innovation for me as I coasted on our accomplishments.  But the world is changing.  What?  You say it already changed?  The explosion of social media means the followers are leading and the leaders are following.  With no desire to be a dinosaur as the clock ticks, it’s time for me to step aside and cheer on the emerging leaders. 

What will I do as of January 1?  I’ll stay involved with IABC, working remotely to build sponsorship and alliances.   And with limited support from the Witness Protection Program, I’ll change my last name back to Corrigan, move and help my daughter and fiancee (Maddie and Nick) plan their wedding.  Who knows?  Maybe I’ll take ballet, study Mandarin, make the perfect tuna pasta, and learn to linger.  Focus on what’s essential for me.

After a lifetime of holding on, I’m finally learning to let go, knowing when it’s time to get out of the way and let others run.  It’s exhilarating, and just a wee bit scary.

Southwest Airlines’ Spirit magazine has a monthly feature “Life Apps” that offers advice for simplifying your life.  Think Heloise meets the Dalai Lama.  In the October feature, Coca Cola CEO Muhtar Kent shares his secrets to managing his workload.  With some 92,400 employees in 200 countries, here’s a guy who can teach a thing or two about time management. 

Kent gets everything done by spending an hour a day on these tasks:

5 minutes - Keep a journal
After every meeting, Kent writes down his expectations and next steps.  He explains that “the physical act of committing next steps to paper sends a message to my team about who’s accountable and how I want something executed.”

15 minutes - Rehearse communications
Kent says his primary role as CEO is to effectively communicate the company’s vision, so he shuts his door for 15 minutes a day to rehearse his communications with key audiences.

10 minutes - Tap your trusted advisers
At least once a day, Kent asks a colleague for advice because he believes that everyone can improve their listening skills.

20 minutes - Be responsive
He closes each day by taking 20 minutes to respond to those who reached out to him.  His rationale is that “if someone took the time to send me a thoughtful message, I owe them the same respect.”

10 minutes - Phone friends and family
Kent keeps himself grounded by connecting with loved ones.  With a hectic work schedule, this helps fill a basic human need and reminds him of what’s important.

This CEO stays on top by spending an hour a day on the essentials.  What’s that thing you do?

Running the Jazz Half Marathon in New Orleans this morning with my son, Cory, reminded me that it’s people who make the world go round.

The start line was buzzing with happy feet at 6:30 a.m. (that’s 4:30 a.m. pacific), with runners in costumes and some already in the spirits for the Halloween day fun.  Strangers suddenly friends told tales of past runs, played “what’s in my water bottle,” and shared their personal record goals for the 13.1 miles.

Three minutes to start time, we crowded elbow-to-elbow as the Star-Spangled Banner began.  The crowd of about 1,800 was silent except for one solitary, baritone voice.  His tone was beautiful, clear and melodic, deep and soulful.  Heads turned to see my son singing, and by the twilight’s last gleaming, the multitudes joined him in song.  There was a sense of wonder and oneness as we gallantly streamed past the start line. 

Thousands of supporters littered the sidewalks.  Young and old, strong and frail, familes, friends and neighbors clapped, held up signs and beer mugs, and cheered us on.  Volunteers, many associated with Children’s Hospital, refreshed us with water, gatorade, and encouraging words.  Jazz bands and tiny dancers peppered the course.  Feeling no heat except to beat a personal record, runners enjoyed and helped each other throughout.

Despite my passing him at the 6 mile mark, Cory earned his medal 10 minutes before my finish.  His first half-marathon, I felt a mother’s pride over his commitment, resolve and less than 11 minute pace.  But I was perhaps more moved when in hearing my race time, he beamed proudly and said, “Wow. That’s awesome, Mom!” 

On a humorous note, when I told Cory he lifted the crowd and asked why he never sings when he plays guitar, he replied, “Mom, you know I can’t multi-task.”  Kind of like running and chewing gum. 

I met with my cousin today who manages business development in Asia for a multibillion dollar defense systems company.  Ray’s a sharp guy who likes to tickle my left brain.  In his sales and marketing role, he works with the company’s corporate communication staff on press releases related to products and partnerships, and he spends inordinate time editing and rewriting.

His wish for corporate communicators?  That we learn the business of our organizations, and understand what we’re writing and talking about.  His view is that communicators follow a template for internal and external communication vehicles, filling in the blanks.  We have low or no awareness of the company’s products and services, let alone the strategies and financials.  In his opinion, we lack curiosity, don’t do the requisite research,  ask the wrong questions, and have a flimsy grasp of the content. 

Egads.  Fire me now. 

If sales, marketing, finance and other functions see communication as a fill-in-the-blank exercise, we’ll never drag that overstuffed chair up to the executive table.

What do you think?  Is his view on our profession unique?  Or do we have a larger problem?