Common Craft Blog
...And Common Craft Does What?
By leelefever on February 01, 2005 - 6:37pm
I’m always trying to figure out the best way to finish that introduction…lately because it’s time for new business cards. How do I answer that question the best way? So much rides on it sometimes.
Common Craft used to be “online communication planningâ€, and but it sounded too formal or stuffy or something. Then I went to “online community consultingâ€, building on my previous job. Then I realized that “community†doesn’t sell.
Right now, it’s “social software consultingâ€, which is how I introduced myself last week. I like it, but it’s a little misleading for some people. I am not a programmer or developer, so to say “social software consulting†sounds like I consult regarding the software, like technical consulting. The software is only a tool for me- what I consult on are the ideas and concepts. I don't do code.
Lately, I’m into a new title and it’s feeling good. What Common Craft does is “social design for the web†and I am a “social designerâ€.
I’ve learned over the last year that I really enjoy the conceptual design process. I love taking an abstract idea for bringing people together and translating it to the web. I love introducing companies to new opportunities to use social software. I love designing mockups of socially-based web sites. I love finding ways to solve old problems using new social tools.
I honestly get excited about this stuff and feel comfortable doing it, so for now I’m a social designer.
...And Common Craft Does What?
Hi Lee.
I like the way you're moving CC. Social designer sounds good and demands the response "oh, what's that". But then you have to nail it very quickly. You have to shout how your improve the quality of people's lives and business results.
How about in the top right-hand corner where you have "Common Craft is a ......"
Something like: "CC uses an innovative approach to social software to bring people together to solve common business problems."
I don't really need to know that you are a consulting practice. I immediately want to know how you can help me solve problems and add business value to my business.
Just some thoughts after I thought I'd drop in and see how you were doing.
As for me, I'm Training Manager for a small company in Southend, England. I had a bad couple of years and needed to get some regular income coming in. One of my responsibilities involves teaching 14 year old girls. Amazing how life changes eh?
In the evenings I'm learning to trade the markets as well and will start for real next week. The Nub will disappear soon as Im pulling the plug on the hosting.
Thanks again for all your support and help.
Keep in touch won't you...
best,
Tim
...And Common Craft Does What?
In the right circles, you should do well with 'social designer'...but stay away from the matchmaker and special event planner crowd.
Lee, any chance that you have/know of, a clone in the academic world who does what you do in the arena of business consulting?
...And Common Craft Does What?
I'm emailing ya Paul...
...And Common Craft Does What?
It's a constant issue with me to describe what I do - even my wife can't explain it to others.
Sometimes I'm in the e-learning space, sometimes the business process area, and sometimes in social networking. I think you're on the right track, but the more general you make your position, the more it sounds like corporate marketing speak.
It's a balancing act between precision and being comprehensible to the masses. No easy answers.