Liz Strauss at Successful Blog

Thinking, writing, business ideas … You’re only a stranger once.

July 7, 2009

The Mic Is On: We’re Talking Online and Offline Cultures

ME Liz Strauss wrote this at 6:57 pm

It’s Like Open Mic Only Different

The Mic Is On

Here’s how it works.

It’s like any rambling conversation. Don’t try to read it all. Jump in whenever you get here. Just go to the end and start talking. EVERYONE is WELCOME.
The rules are simple — be nice.

There are always first timers and new things to talk about. It’s sort of half “Cheers” part “Friends” and part video game. You don’t know how much fun it is until you try it.

It’s Not a Another Life …

When go to another country, when we talk on the telephone, we don’t say that we’re not in real life. But somehow we’ve started thinking that because we’re using our minds to connect online, we’re not in the real world. It’s a different culture with different rules that’s all.

1045178_strange_world


And, whatever else comes up, including THE EVER POPULAR, Basil the code-writing donkey . . . and flamenco dancing (because we always get off topic, anyway.)

Oh, and bring example links.

–ME “Liz” Strauss
image: sxc.hu
Related article
What is Tuesday Open Comment Night?





Filed under SOB Business, Successful Blog |




C'mon. Let's talk!

176 Comments to “The Mic Is On: We’re Talking Online and Offline Cultures”

  1. July 7th, 2009 at 7:02 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Hi Liz, loving your new banner!

  2. July 7th, 2009 at 7:04 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Hi Glenda!
    Yeah it was time to retire the “astrology” header!!

  3. July 7th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    ;)A new header to match the new you?

  4. July 7th, 2009 at 7:06 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Ah Glenda,
    Lots changing around here. Bringing you with me. :)

  5. July 7th, 2009 at 7:10 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Question: can I insert a pic into a comment? I took one just for today.

  6. July 7th, 2009 at 7:11 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Woo, what other changes?

  7. July 7th, 2009 at 7:12 pm
    Becky McCray said

    Howdy! What an interesting topic. Very thought provoking.

  8. July 7th, 2009 at 7:12 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Glenda, yeah but it’s difficult. Email to me if you really want it here. Otherwise, it’s probably easier to twitpic is and insert the link.

  9. July 7th, 2009 at 7:13 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Hey Becky!

    I’ve been watching the two cultures slowly move together since SOBCon08. We ain’t nearly there yet.

    People still seem to think this isn’t real life. :)

  10. July 7th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Be right back. Need to upload a pic to Flickr.

  11. July 7th, 2009 at 7:14 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Ah Glenda,
    Four SOBCon Hands-On Conferences in the works … One for Associations in DC soon. Meeting with the Association for Speech and Hearing.

  12. July 7th, 2009 at 7:16 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Hey Becky,
    What’s the difference between your two sxsw panel submissions?

  13. July 7th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Wow, you’re ambitious, Liz!

  14. July 7th, 2009 at 7:22 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Yeah, Glenda,
    Naturally I have help and I know how now … and these are one day events.

  15. July 7th, 2009 at 7:23 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Ok, if this link works - http://www.flickr.com/photos/8684493@N02/3699767854/ - I saw this and had to share it here tonight.

  16. July 7th, 2009 at 7:23 pm
    Mary McRae said

    Hi everyone. I’ve never seen it as two different worlds. I guess because I’ve always spent so much of my career in high tech?

  17. July 7th, 2009 at 7:24 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #15 Perfect Glenda. LOL

  18. July 7th, 2009 at 7:24 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Love that pix, Glenda!

  19. July 7th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
    Becky McCray said

    Liz,
    Panel 1 is How did this Happen? I’m in business! - That’s targeted at people who have just started or are just about to start a business and need a checklist to get going.

    Panel 2 is Escape! Live where you want. - It’s for anyone who wants to take working remotely to a new level, and live where ever they want. :)

  20. July 7th, 2009 at 7:26 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    Great topic Liz.

    When it comes to offline, people always take about the “first” impression and the importance of it. In fact there is a cliche that “you don’t get a second chance to make a good first impression.”

    This was all fine before the online and social media world.

    With the social media in full force, what we are leaving behind is a “zeroth impression” - an impression that will pre-suppose what the first impression might be. Everything that you write (a blog post, a comment, a review) is making a statement (almost permanently) and adding up towards your zeroth impression.

    A related blog post on the topic is here:
    http://www.lifebeyondcode.com/2008/04/06/ways-to-distinguish-yourself-185-pay-attention-to-your-zeroth-impression/

    So my point is that the online and offline worlds are more intermixed than what it appears at the surface. Your online impressions (zeroth impressions) will vastly influence the expectations during an offline meeting and vice versa.

    Have a great evening all of you.

    Best,
    Rajesh

  21. July 7th, 2009 at 7:26 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Hiya!
    I guess you know which panel I belong on and which on describes what most folks think of when I walk in the room. heh heh

  22. July 7th, 2009 at 7:28 pm
    Mary McRae said

    Do you consider people you ‘talk to’ via email but have never met to be offline or online? I have dozens of people I’ve been talking to via email for half a decade but have never met in person. I still feel like I know them, and I’m sure they feel the same.

  23. July 7th, 2009 at 7:28 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    I have another pic, but unfortunately I cut off his head. “Cold n hot treats” would have been the perfect title. Oh well.

    What’s the topic? ;)

  24. July 7th, 2009 at 7:29 pm
    Mary McRae said

    Congrats on the SOBCon road show, Liz!

  25. July 7th, 2009 at 7:30 pm
    Becky McCray said

    Like I said before, the moment of submission is such a hopeful point. It’s all a rollercoaster ride from there till they finally turn me down! :D

  26. July 7th, 2009 at 7:31 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Hi Raj!
    Always love the thought you bring to a discussion. I’m thinking that your zeroth impression can happen before or after, but the mixing effect is everlasting.

  27. July 7th, 2009 at 7:32 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    #22
    Mary,
    My feelings exactly. The same happens with the telephone … I suspect most everyone has known someone on the phone long before meeting that person.

  28. July 7th, 2009 at 7:33 pm
    Mary McRae said

    … and it’s always so funny when you meet them in person - they never look like you pictured in your mind (unless you’ve actually seen their picture)

  29. July 7th, 2009 at 7:34 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    So true Liz. I can’t believe that we had not met in person until the last SOBCon but I felt that we knew each other for a long time.

    Like Mary McRae mentioned above, you can continue to build online relationships for a long time before you meet someone in person.

    After that the first impression is so (positively) prejudiced that it will be GREAT.

    Cheers,
    Rajesh

  30. July 7th, 2009 at 7:34 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    #25
    This year, Becky, we should rally a crowd to vote it up!!

  31. July 7th, 2009 at 7:35 pm
    Mary McRae said

    If you present yourself differently online vs offline, what happens when you actually meet someone from the ‘other world’? And what would the person you’re meeting think of the different you?

  32. July 7th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
    Becky McCray said

    Liz, last year, the SXSW panel voting went off while I was on safari. Maybe not the greatest plan on my part.

  33. July 7th, 2009 at 7:36 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said
  34. July 7th, 2009 at 7:37 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #20 Hi Raj. Do you really think the first impression is different whether online or offline? I’ll have to check out your post ;)

  35. July 7th, 2009 at 7:37 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    #31

    Mary, what I have observed is that if you know someone for a long time online, (except for the physical appearances) they almost match your expectations in personality and behavior.

    Cheers,
    Raj

  36. July 7th, 2009 at 7:37 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    #32
    No panel appearance at sxsw is worth rescheduling a safari.

    You can quote me. heh heh

  37. July 7th, 2009 at 7:37 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #35 absolutely! It’s the phyiscal appearance that always gets me.

  38. July 7th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    #31 Good question, Mary. Its like, “Are the two me’s congruent? “

  39. July 7th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    #33

    Wow.. time flies Liz :)

    Best,
    Raj

  40. July 7th, 2009 at 7:40 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Hey Liz, Glenda, Becky, Mary and anyone else I missed!

  41. July 7th, 2009 at 7:40 pm
    Mary McRae said

    Although there are people I have had a working relationship with that I wasn’t particularly fond of; and then got to interract with them in a social situation (after no longer working for the same company) and discovered he wasn’t such a bad guy after all ;)

  42. July 7th, 2009 at 7:41 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    #34

    Mary, in the offline world, the first impression is probably in one dimension - based on the setting and context (is it a casual meeting, dinner, conference etc..)

    In the online world, the zeroth impression is a medley of a number of things (LinkedIn, Facebook, Flickr, YouTube - they all speak different stories of the same person)

    Their comments and discussions add color to the personality.

    So the more time you spend online with the person, the richer the zeroth impression - more granular.

    My $.02 of course.

    Cheers,
    Raj

  43. July 7th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #41 I guess I’m tired - got my singulars and plurals all mixed up on that last one. Any English majors around? Mea culpa.

  44. July 7th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Hey Joe!
    How the heck are you?!!

  45. July 7th, 2009 at 7:42 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #42 Oh I like that Raj!

  46. July 7th, 2009 at 7:43 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Hi Mary,
    Work … now THERE’s another culture!!

  47. July 7th, 2009 at 7:44 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Mixing online and offline sometimes can be quite difficult.
    Take for example, if I offer you all a Klondike here, you have to run to your refridg to get the real thing to taste it.
    Anyway, Here! Catch! Klondikes for All! :-)

  48. July 7th, 2009 at 7:45 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Hey Liz, I am the Heck Fine.

  49. July 7th, 2009 at 7:45 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    [running to my refrigerator]

  50. July 7th, 2009 at 7:46 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    Liz,

    Offtopic but sort of related request. Can you ask someone to implement threading on your comments - like Disqus or something.

    I love the Open Mic but sometimes my bird brain can’t handle moving back and forth to catch up with all the fun :)

    Best,
    Raj

  51. July 7th, 2009 at 7:46 pm
    Becky McCray said

    Joe, I’ll take that Klondike bar!

  52. July 7th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    #47

    Joe, where should we send our mailing addresses. I got them virtually (online) but would also love them physically (offline)

    ;)

    Cheers,
    Raj

  53. July 7th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    #48
    Delighted to hear that! You are my hero and the original open comment guy.

  54. July 7th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #46 absolutely. But when you work from home and virtually everything you do is either via teleconference, web conference, email, or chat (and sometimes twitter) it’s impossible (at least for me) to maintain separate personas. You get all of me :)

  55. July 7th, 2009 at 7:49 pm
    Mary McRae said

    Wait I missed it! Joe, are you handing out Klondikes? Toss one in the direction of NH, would you please?

  56. July 7th, 2009 at 7:50 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Here Becky, don’t drop it! ;-)
    Raj, I think you’d be better getting the real thing at the store, I think they would melt using Snail Mail. ;-)

  57. July 7th, 2009 at 7:50 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Hey Joe, missed you last week! Klondikes are in #15.

  58. July 7th, 2009 at 7:51 pm
    Becky McCray said

    Thanks, Joe!

    Have to drop out early, so I can help my husband repair a windmill.

    Have a great discussion, everyone!

  59. July 7th, 2009 at 7:52 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    ** wets finger & sticks it in the air for wind direction, lookes towards the Northeast, THROWS! **
    Catch, Mary!

  60. July 7th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Hey Glenda, I checked #15 & 16 etc, ALL GONE! :-(

  61. July 7th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Ok, on a semi-serious note.
    I am starting a Forum & Blog for Baby Boomers very soon, almost have things set up.
    Would that be a good way to connect some of the offline world with the online world?

  62. July 7th, 2009 at 7:55 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Sorry Joe. How’s the book coming?

  63. July 7th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    So do you suppose that Internet culture in two different nations is more the same than the offline cultures in the same two nations are?

  64. July 7th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #59 Joe you should try out for the Red Sox. Perfect.

    #58 Becky - a windmill? really? wow.

  65. July 7th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Joe,
    Your boomer forum sounds outstanding and yes I do think that will be an integral group to connect online and offline officially. :)

  66. July 7th, 2009 at 7:58 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    #61

    On the Baby Boomer blog, I would love to connect you to the founder of
    http://www.boomer411.com

    You both will enjoy talking..

    Please let me know if you are interested.

    Best,
    Raj

  67. July 7th, 2009 at 7:58 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Glenda, been done for a while now, no sales, but plenty of views.
    Liz, totally different worlds, online there is more in common than there is offline, too much cultural divide.

  68. July 7th, 2009 at 7:58 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Liz, eg Iran-U.S.

  69. July 7th, 2009 at 8:00 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #63 oh good question Liz! I think the people that I come in contact with who are all high-tech geeks like myself share a common internet culture that’s probably very different from their local social culture. But geeks are a culture unto themselves anyway. ;)

  70. July 7th, 2009 at 8:01 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    #63 Pondering… Maybe, because being an Internet culture, that’s a slightly more specific group, so more commonalities I’d guess. Why do you ask, Liz?

  71. July 7th, 2009 at 8:01 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Raj, that sounds like a great idea, could be mutually beneficial. ;-)

  72. July 7th, 2009 at 8:03 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Hey Liz, i just noticed that you have a MIC in front of you in the new header.
    How Appropriate! :-)

  73. July 7th, 2009 at 8:03 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    #71

    Joe, will you please send me an email with your contact details. Will make the connection soon.

    My email is at:
    http://www.rajeshsetty.com/about/contact/

    Cheers,
    Raj

  74. July 7th, 2009 at 8:05 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Cool Raj, I’ll em you tomorrow. :-)

  75. July 7th, 2009 at 8:06 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    #70
    because I’m Chief Curiosity Officer!

  76. July 7th, 2009 at 8:09 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    #70 Of course, silly me!

  77. July 7th, 2009 at 8:12 pm
    --Deb said

    Hi folks! I’ve got a slew of friends who I’ve met via blogging and who are just as great in person. How great is the internet?

  78. July 7th, 2009 at 8:13 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Glenda,
    I love it when you’re silly.

  79. July 7th, 2009 at 8:14 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Hey –Deb!

    Welcome to my night on the town. heh heh

  80. July 7th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    #77

    On a lighter note, Internet is the same Deb, you are great to use the Internet right :)

    The tools are available for everyone but only few people use it to build long-term relationships :)

    Cheers,
    Raj

  81. July 7th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    When relating online, where its often the written word, do you find its too easy for people misinterpret what was intended, which can result in miscommunication, hurt feelings, etc?

  82. July 7th, 2009 at 8:15 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Hey –Deb
    Want a Klondike?

  83. July 7th, 2009 at 8:17 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    #78 Thanks Liz! ;)

  84. July 7th, 2009 at 8:17 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Glenda, I’ve found it is pretty much the same as offline…
    If you have a real conversation and talk about whatever it is, you can usually work things out.

  85. July 7th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    #81
    Glenda,
    I sure haven’t found as many misinterpretations of what I said as some might expect. Usually they seem to be on purpose by folks who just want to find things wrong.

  86. July 7th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
    --Deb said

    I’d love a Klondike … and, since it’s virtual, it won’t even bother my asthma. (Score!)

  87. July 7th, 2009 at 8:18 pm
    --Deb said

    You can get a few hundred knit-bloggers together and it’s instant chemistry, big hugs, and chatter/connection right away. Huge fun.

  88. July 7th, 2009 at 8:20 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    #84 But isn’t there a time delay with online where things can fester or go unresolved?

  89. July 7th, 2009 at 8:20 pm
    Chris Cree said

    Heya Liz!

    Howdy Everyone!

  90. July 7th, 2009 at 8:22 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    #85 Yes, there’s always those who look for the negative.

  91. July 7th, 2009 at 8:22 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Chris Cree!
    Congratulations on your own tv stations!!

  92. July 7th, 2009 at 8:22 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    #84, sure it’s possible, but if it is important then you can always use e-mail, DM on Twitter etc.
    Where there’s a will there is a way.

  93. July 7th, 2009 at 8:23 pm
    Chris Cree said

    I know it’s probably hard to believe but I’ve already had my fill of Klondike Bars today. Lisa brought home a bunch of the Whitehouse Cherry. Mmmm…

  94. July 7th, 2009 at 8:24 pm
    Chris Cree said

    Thanks Liz! It’s been a crazy day.

    I see that you’ve started doing video too. I like what you’re doing there.

  95. July 7th, 2009 at 8:24 pm
    Chris Cree said

    By the way have y’all seen the new Klondike Bar site?

    http://www.klondikebar.com/

    Way cool!

  96. July 7th, 2009 at 8:25 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Eh, Chris,
    I just figured I should do something with the fact that folks keep saying the like my voice … and besides I have a new haircut. :)

    Thank you!

  97. July 7th, 2009 at 8:25 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Hey Chris,
    Congrats on your TV show.

  98. July 7th, 2009 at 8:26 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #81 I do think it’s easier to be misunderstood when you only have the written word. With phone you have voice inflection, and in person you get body language as well. I try to be careful in what I write, and use emoticons as appropriate.

  99. July 7th, 2009 at 8:27 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    Chris, Congrats on the TV show.

    However, I missed reading about it.

    Link?

    Best,
    Raj

  100. July 7th, 2009 at 8:28 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Chris,
    How has your offline changed now that you’re online and growing a business like crazy?

  101. July 7th, 2009 at 8:28 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #87 same with quilters :) The most fun is when you end up realizing you live fairly close together and have a meetup. Or you meet them at a quilt show or such. I have 6 close friends - we all met online. And now have pajama parties. Our kids (all grown) think we’re hysterical; our husbands are glad to see us go ;)

  102. July 7th, 2009 at 8:29 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    #98

    Glenda, Mary

    Emoticons have helped me a ton. Since people can’t read emotions in the written word, emoticons act as the tie-breakers :)

    Cheers,
    Raj

  103. July 7th, 2009 at 8:29 pm
    --Deb said

    Chris–a tv show? That’s fantastic!

  104. July 7th, 2009 at 8:29 pm
    Chris Cree said

    Thanks Joe. Thanks Raj.

    It’s really just a video site, not an actual TV show. :) You can just click my name.

    I’m rebranding with video.

  105. July 7th, 2009 at 8:29 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    #92 Long story short: a tight knit online group, very close etc - things were said and misinterpreted etc - sadly the group fell apart. There are still hurt feelings years later. I’m not sure what the solution is.

  106. July 7th, 2009 at 8:30 pm
    Mary McRae said

    Hi Chris,

    Congrats on the new show. I did see something about it on twitter but haven’t had a chance to check it out yet.

  107. July 7th, 2009 at 8:30 pm
    Chris Cree said

    I just bought a dot tv domain is all.

  108. July 7th, 2009 at 8:32 pm
    Chris Cree said

    I like the topic tonight, Liz. I spend a lot of time explaining to people that the same networking principles apply to social media as they do in the local small business chamber event.

    For some reason people thing the way to network is totally different. But people are people, regardless of whether they are online or off.

  109. July 7th, 2009 at 8:33 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #105 I have seen it happen. I have seen huge mailing lists split into two because someone offended someone else. In the situations I’m familiar with, though, hurtful words were said; I don’t think it was a ‘misinterpretation.’ They may have been taken too personally, but the same thing happens in families too. My mother was one of 4; the only girl. She was always trying to patch things up between whatever brothers weren’t speaking to each other at the moment. And it went on for years.

  110. July 7th, 2009 at 8:33 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Chris, I’ve used Videos mostly for the weekend wrap up post on Saturdays.
    Mostly because I like doing them more than being useful at this point. ;-)

  111. July 7th, 2009 at 8:33 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    #105

    One solution is to knit that group by one by one. It takes time but if the rewards are big enough, the investment may be worth it.

    I am sure that not everyone had a problem with everyone. So, if a small sub-set of people make up their mind, you could try to resurrect it.

    Cheers,
    Raj

  112. July 7th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #108 But I’m really shy when it comes to something like a chamber event. I’m comfortable in my own ‘territory’ and can be extremely sociable at a geek gathering or with customers in my restaurant, but feel I have nothing in common/nothing worthwhile to say at a business gathering.

  113. July 7th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
    --Deb said

    I figure that people are people, whether they’re on the other side of a keyboard and computer screen or not.

  114. July 7th, 2009 at 8:36 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #107 Well you make it sound so simple. You still have to record the videos. ;)

  115. July 7th, 2009 at 8:37 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #111 great suggestion, Raj.

  116. July 7th, 2009 at 8:37 pm
    Timothy Johnson said

    Hi strangers! Glad to see this Tuesday night tradition continues strong

  117. July 7th, 2009 at 8:38 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Hey Tim, Liz & Chris have their own TV shows, are you going to do a “Cops” version on your blog? ;-)

  118. July 7th, 2009 at 8:39 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    #105
    Glenda,
    Years later … that’s sad. Also says something about people’s ability to forgive. Apparently someone died from what was said?

  119. July 7th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
    Chris Cree said

    I get that, Joe. Videos are still a bit of work for me. But people prefer to get their content in that form and it’s not about me so… I make videos now.

    Mary, I’m a total introvert by nature. It has taken me a long time to appear comfortable in big group settings. I’m not. But I can at least act like I am.

    The key is to get out there and do it more. The more you do it the less uncomfortable you will be.

  120. July 7th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    #111,
    Raj,
    That was a beautiful thought. Maybe the group was really bored with each other and looking for a reason to go their own ways?

  121. July 7th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
    Chris Cree said

    Heya Tim!

  122. July 7th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Poll:
    Where are you sitting right now, enjoying the conversation (online of course)?
    I’m sitting out on my patio, with the tiki lights burning brightly. :-)

  123. July 7th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Hi Tim!
    Will there be dancing tonight?

  124. July 7th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
    Karen Putz said

    Hellooooooooo everyone! Greetings from Christie Lake via slow internet. Been a while since I’ve been here! How are you all?

  125. July 7th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
    Timothy Johnson said

    Very cool, Liz and Chris

    Joe - I’ve had my share of producing a cops video… been there, done that six years ago… was a blast

  126. July 7th, 2009 at 8:42 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Mary,
    I’m learning that if I forget that the room is full, it’s a whole lot easier to talk to one person at a time. :)

  127. July 7th, 2009 at 8:43 pm
    Timothy Johnson said

    I thought Miss Glenda and I would do a moonwalk in honor of MJ

  128. July 7th, 2009 at 8:44 pm
    Timothy Johnson said

    Mary - listen to Liz… she is the undisputed champ of working a room - real or virtual

  129. July 7th, 2009 at 8:45 pm
    --Deb said

    I’m sitting on the floor in my bedroom, which is where my computer is. Leaning against the ottoman of the comfy chair which I almost never actually sit in–because this way, my dog can come sit right next to me if he wants to!

  130. July 7th, 2009 at 8:45 pm
    Rajesh Setty said

    #121

    Yes Liz. That is definitely a possibility.

    I am also thinking that it would be great for people to dissolve a group with a good note so that if a sub-set of them join another group someday, there are no ill-feelings carried over.

    Just a thought.

    Cheers,
    Raj

  131. July 7th, 2009 at 8:45 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #119 Thanks Chris, you’re right.

  132. July 7th, 2009 at 8:46 pm
    Chris Cree said

    I’m sitting in my office. Still. It has been a long day. Started at 5 AM & it’s nearly 10. Barely had potty breaks. :)

    My brain is fuzzy enough I should probably disconnect and unwind a little before I go to sleep.

  133. July 7th, 2009 at 8:46 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Thanks Raj & Mary for the follow on Twitter, I guess I should be a bit more active, huh?

  134. July 7th, 2009 at 8:46 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #126 Great suggestion Liz!

  135. July 7th, 2009 at 8:47 pm
    Karen Putz said

    Chris, you definitely have the knack of appearing comfy in big groups!

  136. July 7th, 2009 at 8:49 pm
    Chris Cree said

    Karen, That’s with years of practice. And a bunch of acting lessons. My acting coach truly is brilliant.

  137. July 7th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
    Timothy Johnson said

    Karen - it’s been a while… anything new with Steak n Shake?

  138. July 7th, 2009 at 8:51 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    [off topic] Darrell just came home. He landed an unexpected [tho hoped for] casual computer instructor position!

  139. July 7th, 2009 at 8:51 pm
    Karen Putz said

    Tim, hi there. Yes, settled out of court and they are making some positive changes as a result. Good ending to it.

  140. July 7th, 2009 at 8:52 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    #136
    Chris you also have the ability to look big in comfy groups. Just sayin’ :) heh heh

  141. July 7th, 2009 at 8:52 pm
    Mary McRae said

    #138 Congrats to Darrell.

  142. July 7th, 2009 at 8:52 pm
    Chris Cree said

    Seriously. I need to shut down. Just spent like 40 seconds staring at my phone. And I don’t know why.

    Thanks for the Klondikes! Good night all.

  143. July 7th, 2009 at 8:53 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Glends, that sound ON topic to me, computers(online) and instructor (offline)
    Perfectg match if you ask me.
    Oh, and tell Darrell, congrats… :-)

  144. July 7th, 2009 at 8:53 pm
    Mary McRae said

    Good night Chris. I need to bid farewell as well - still have some work to get done before I can call it a day. Thanks as always Liz!

  145. July 7th, 2009 at 8:54 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Karen!

    So glad to see you! Did you see #11?

  146. July 7th, 2009 at 8:54 pm
    Karen Putz said

    Glenda, hugs, girl and congrats to Darrell!

  147. July 7th, 2009 at 8:54 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Nite Chris, you need to bright eyed and bushiy tailed for the camera tomorrow ;-)

  148. July 7th, 2009 at 8:55 pm
    Karen Putz said

    Wow, Liz, that’s great! What will you be doing with the Speech and Hearing Association?

  149. July 7th, 2009 at 8:55 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Hey Mr T! And Karen!

  150. July 7th, 2009 at 8:56 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Glenda,
    Please tell Darrell that I said he’s HOT!!

  151. July 7th, 2009 at 8:56 pm
    Timothy Johnson said

    G’night Chris

    Glad to hear it Karen! Now we don’t have to boycott Steak n Shake any more… family will be thrilled.

  152. July 7th, 2009 at 8:57 pm
    Timothy Johnson said

    Hello Miss Glenda… got time for a quick dance? Congrats to “da man” on his new instructor gig!

  153. July 7th, 2009 at 8:58 pm
    Karen Putz said

    LOL Tim, that’s right, go get a milkshake!

  154. July 7th, 2009 at 8:58 pm
    --Deb said

    Okay, I’m shutting down now, too. I have blog posts to write!

  155. July 7th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
    Timothy Johnson said

    Karen … 18 month boycott of S&S on your behalf has not made me popular with the family!

  156. July 7th, 2009 at 9:00 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    #150 Liz, “No I’m not. ;) And hello.”

  157. July 7th, 2009 at 9:00 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Hi Karen,
    We’re doing an event in DC
    SOBCon Hands-on Associations. I’m going there to talk about that.

  158. July 7th, 2009 at 9:01 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Definitely, Mr T!

  159. July 7th, 2009 at 9:07 pm
    Timothy Johnson said

    OK all… I need to spend some time with the kiddos… g’night all

  160. July 7th, 2009 at 9:08 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Okay you guys, next week we’re playing the backyard … bring your swim suits, bats and balls, and mischief. :)

  161. July 7th, 2009 at 9:10 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    #156
    Darn, Glenda.
    I thought I’d catch you silly again. heh heh

  162. July 7th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    #160 Liz, you mean I get to be silly without getting in trouble?! ;)

  163. July 7th, 2009 at 9:11 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Whether online or off
    A Friend is a Friend

    I’ve learned from the Best
    Just do not pretend

    If you are really true Online or off
    on Real Friends you can always depend

    Burma Shave

    Nite Liz
    Nite All

  164. July 7th, 2009 at 9:13 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Thanks Joe!

  165. July 7th, 2009 at 9:13 pm
    Karen Putz said

    Great, will try and join in next week– kids are at camp! Goodnight all!

  166. July 7th, 2009 at 9:15 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Night Karen.

  167. July 7th, 2009 at 9:17 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Outstanding, Joe,

    Goodnight friend,
    Sleepy swell!

  168. July 7th, 2009 at 9:18 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    Liz, can you fix that? There should be a line split between off and on Real/
    Please?!?!

  169. July 7th, 2009 at 9:22 pm
    Joe Hauckes said

    ;-)
    Nite Sweetie

  170. July 7th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
    ME Liz Strauss said

    Good night everyone!
    Thank you!!

  171. July 7th, 2009 at 9:48 pm
    Glenda Watson Hyatt said

    Thanks Liz!

  172. July 7th, 2009 at 9:54 pm
    Brooke said

    Hi guys. I am really late but wanted to stop in and say hello!

  173. July 7th, 2009 at 11:05 pm
    Don Simkovich said

    Coming online is like building trust in person. you don’t say hi once and walk away. Participate, participate and participate. Add value.

  174. July 9th, 2009 at 6:36 am
    Chrissy Morin said

    WOW! I try to explain this stuff to my off-line friends (REAL) friends in their minds and they just don’t get it. Great Job! I could send them a link to this article but yeah… that won’t work…

  175. July 9th, 2009 at 9:20 am
    It’s All Real Life | Tim Bursch said

    [...] was a discussion this week about online vs. offline relationships over at Liz’s blog. I could not join in, but here is what I would have brought to the [...]

  176. July 12th, 2009 at 4:03 am
    Cheap NHL jerseys said

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