Was the USFRA sponsored “Food Dialogue” successful?
That is the question.
I set aside the time to watch and listen to the entire dialogue, as well as follow the discussions taking place on the Food Dialogue website, Facebook page and on Twitter with #FoodD (the hashtag for the discussion).
It was my intention to listen and observe as an objective person…a challenge…but this was my take on day. Read more…
“Remember, when you are pointing your finger, you have three others pointing back at you.”
This old adage has never been more relevant. It saddens me to see the accusations and inflammatory remarks flying through the social media streams, particularly in the arena of agriculture: food, fiber, shelter and the production of those resources.
There is nothing to be gained by “yelling” at one another. Read more…
Sunset In Nashville, courtesy of Mark Lathrop
Welcome to Nashville!
You were all selected to attend this 2nd Agchat Foundation Conference because you have passion for agriculture, have embraced social media and have demonstrated that you have the desire to become more effective agvocates.
Over the next two days, you will have the opportunity to expand your knowledge of social media platforms, integrate smart and mobile technology and most importantly, meet fellow agvocates who have made the decision to work with you as a team.
Some of you will focus on one or two platforms, while others will feel comfortable and have the time and energy to incorporate multiple platforms. You each will play an important and vital role in assisting the effort of agriculture to reconnect with consumers.
Our emphasis this year is to help you reach beyond the choir. We want you to learn how to build strong bridges, grow supportive communities and gain influence among those outside of agriculture.
This endeavor will take time, focus, patience, bravery, professionalism, civility and respect.
Ultimately, your success will depend on your ability to communicate effectively and nurture relationships built upon mutual respect and trust.
Agriculture is diverse, society is diverse, and you all have unique interests and personalities, as do the individuals you will be reaching out to.
Diversity must be respected. Read more…
#ACFC11 Participants, courtesy of @JPLovesCotton
Passion can be both an asset and a liability.
Let passion be your incentive to reach out, open your heart, build bridges, grow communities & nurture relationships.
Temper your passion to remain objective, receptive and inviting.
Take what you have learned over the past two days and take the next step on your Agvocate journey.
Nurture the new relationships you have formed here in Nashville.
Agvocacy is about working together as a team to reconnect the public to agriculture naturally.
Encourage curiosity, questions and dialogue. Read more…
Have a strategy:
1. Who are you trying to reach out to?
2. How do you plan on reaching them?
3. What are you going to do to nourish the new relationships?
How to find hashtags:
Where to find twitter chats:
Where to find people:
