Yesterday, I came across a fascinating article by Michael C. Gilbert of the Nonprofit Online News. The article, “Become a Blogger and Relax, A Systems Approach to Information Overload” was incredibly thought-provoking.
The basic premise is that blogging combats information overload by requiring the blogger to focus on what is important. Considering that most people who work at non-profit organizations wear multiple hats, prioritization is key. At any job we’re inundated with new ideas, some good, some not so hot, and we are always juggling multiple projects.
To me, what Gilbert is saying is that making time to filter and focus allows us to effectively communicate what is important to both our colleagues and our audience.
Just like a CEO, an Artistic or Executive Director could round up a week of experiences in a blog post internally to the company or to the audience. As a result, the staff or audience members can succinctly understand the following:
This is why we are doing a specific initiative.
This is why it is important to our mission and who we are.
This is who we wish to be looking into the future.
And, most important: These are the questions we have. What are your thoughts?
It allows for a conversation to start. It allows for a synergy of ideas within your staff or constituencies. You can communicate what the organization believes is important and put it out there for public consumption, debate, and conversation.
It also demonstrates a willingness to listen and learn.
To me, blogging serves the same purposes my high school Humanities teacher wished for journaling to do:
You’re supposed to be working on understanding yourself. You’re not supposed to be afraid to have ideas. You’re supposed to be thinking, listening to feedback, learning, processing, and further articulating your ideas and, even, having new ones.
Blogging should teach organizations and individuals to be fearless in respectfully and responsibly stating opinions so we can create engaged conversations.
