Twitter, Trends & Tactics

The Shifting Sands of Political Communication: From X’s Dominance to a Decentralized Frontier?

It’s all in against X! In the wake of the European Commission 's ban on advertising on Musk's social network and with the imminent launch of Threads and the opening of Bluesky, Dave Keating signals a crucial turning point for the former Twitter. Although X remains in the game despite mounting pressure, users are scouting for alternatives,?but a clear frontrunner has yet to appear.?

While entertainment-centric social networks like Instagram and TikTok fall short of providing a suitable environment for substantive political discourse, other platforms are experiencing a shift. LinkedIn is slowly gaining ground, while niche and emerging platforms like Mastodon and Bluesky are gaining traction as potential havens for in-depth discussions on specific subjects, but not yet gaining critical mass.?

Keating's insights point towards an increasing dispersion of influence across platforms, where adaptability and a multi-platform approach are becoming key for maintaining influence and relevance in the evolving social media terrain.

Mike Klein FIIC, FCSCE, SCMP of #WeLeadComms sets his sights on celebrating the often-unsung heroes of our industry: communication professionals. His mission? To spotlight their courage, leadership, and daily initiatives. With a global cohort of over 600 honourees, including our CEO Philip Weiss , the focus is on amplifying the momentum surrounding communicators as pivotal leaders in both organizations and communities.?

Simultaneously, Klein's work with Accountability.Fish, in collaboration with us, transitions from aspiring to change the dialogue around governance in international fisheries to actively spearheading this transformative process. It's a progression from envisioning to realization, underscoring the power of impactful communication in driving real-world change. ?

For more insights, watch the video here????

Sean Hayes , a key figure in our #ZNetwork, foresees a transformative upheaval on the digital landscape spurred by AI’s integration. It's not just about technological disruption, but a profound paradigm shift, altering our societal perceptions and structures.?

His vision foretells a transformative era where AI will redefine collective norms and practices, marking a monumental leap in both technology and human organization. As we stand on the cusp of this change, the critical question looms: How can we adequately be #OneStepAhead and prepared for this fundamental change??

?#ZNLive with Mathew Lowry Tomorrow!?

?? Join us tomorrow at 2pm CET on #ZNLive with Philip Weiss and special guest Mathew Lowry , an?information architect, content strategist & online innovator?in digital communications since 1995 and founder of MyHub.ai.?

Dive into an engaging discussion on the open web, POSSE approach, AI, and the latest digital communication trends. Don't miss this chance for insightful exploration and learning!?

?#ZNLive with Pieter Cleppe?

Last week on #ZNLive, we welcomed Pieter Cleppe of BrusselsReport.eu, CEO Philip Weiss , and Marsela Ivanova for an engaging discussion.?

The discussion touched upon the surge of extremism in Europe, the changing roles of social media in politics, and the expanding influence of AI on digital strategies.?

"It's undeniable that there's a lot more access to information than 30 years ago, but it's getting harder to filter what's true and what's not."?

?Pieter Cleppe highlights, while Philip Weiss adds:

"Even if people don't like using Twitter/X, now is not the time where you kind of abandon a communication channel."?

Key Takeaways:?

• Embrace adaptable and flexible communication tactics to navigate the evolving digital landscape.?
• AI is transforming content creation, requiring communicators with tech finesse.?
• Effective political communication demands a versatile multi-platform approach.?

Pieter's advice to young professionals: flourish in EU affairs and communication by maintaining a thirst for continuous learning and curiosity.?

Essential Resources:?

?? Brussels Report Podcast for in-depth EU affairs analysis.??

??Think Fast, Talk Smart: The Podcast for enhancing communication skills.

?? Backfire: How Sanctions Reshape the World Against U.S. Interests by Agathe Demarais.

??Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things by Adam Grant.

Missed the episode? You can watch it here! ??

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In Focus?

In his recent post, CEO Philip Weiss explores adapting your content strategy for 2024's unpredictable digital landscape. With the EU Commission's ad ban on X and Musk's unique challenges, Philip advocates for the "Web as Hub" strategy. Centralize your story, then cast it wide with the POSSE method (Publish (on your) Own Site, Syndicate Everywhere) across platforms like X, Mastodon, and?Bluesky, and tailor it to your community.?

With the EU elections looming, he prompts us to rethink re-think: How will we anchor our content strategies, utilizing POSSE, to find and grow our niche communities? Join the conversation and share your thoughts! ???

Prepared to reshape the future of EU politics through the influence of young minds??Hack4Votes is more than just a hackathon; it's a pivotal initiative to enhance youth participation to shape the future of EU politics. Open to everyone from passionate coders to zealous activists, it provides a unique opportunity to foster creative concepts that inspire young individuals to participate in voting.?

Across two days, participants will collaborate and brainstorm solutions to boost youth voting rates, tackling challenges from engaging the apathetic to harnessing the power of social media.?

Mark your calendars for January 27-28, 2024, to join Hack4Votes and be a part of the team that designs game-changing initiatives to boost youth engagement in EU elections.?

Let's amplify young voices in the political sphere! More details below.?

Download our eBook and #MakeItCount!

Unlock innovative?end-of-year strategies?and gear up for a?successful new year?with our latest eBook, a treasure trove of insights from 25 years in digital communication. Dive into creative approaches for year-end reports, festive communications, and more.?

Digital News and Trends

Musk’s Road to...Nowhere??

Elon Musk's 'F-bomb' to advertisers could be a self-sabotaging ad-ieu to X's revenue. With his recent profane remarks at the New York Times DealBook Summit and firm grip on X’s reins, Musk’s strategy invites speculation on the platform's financial prospects and stability.?Is this the last nail in the coffin for X? Read more here.

AI's Impact on the Workforce: A Dual-edged Sword

LinkedIn's "Future of Work" report unveils?a significant shift in AI discourse, focusing on its dual potential to enhance but also disrupt various jobs. While optimism prevails among professionals about AI aiding career advancement, concerns are mounting?regarding its capacity to replace certain roles, indicating a need for adaptability in an ever-evolving job landscape.?Read more here.

Meet the #ZNetwork?

Sean Hayes , boasting an award-winning 40-year advertising career across five countries, has recently transitioned to a remote work role. Balancing his time between crafting conceptual copy for clients and domestic duties, Sean adeptly manages Amazon deliveries and serves as the designated "door opener/closer" for the family cat, O’Brien. Embracing this new phase of life, Sean is living out his version of the dream!?

Irem Turkay Ates , our newly promoted Senior Account Director, recognized for her smart and focused contributions, is an ardent cinephile with a passion for films across all genres, eras, and origins. While watching a movie, she keenly observes underlying themes, hidden meanings, and specific directing techniques. An enthusiast of movie-making trivia, she enjoys delving into behind-the-scenes facts. Occasionally, she also shares her insightful movie reviews on her Instagram profile.?

Don't miss out – join our community today and stay?#OneStepAhead?by subscribing to our newsletter. We value your thoughts and would love to hear your take on the topics we've discussed. Comment below and let's keep the conversation going.?