Executive Communication #1: Republicans don't get new media!

Regardless of your political affiliation, you have to admit the 2011 State of the Union Address given by President Obama achieved its aims. Not only did President Obama deliver a compelling oration laced with key terms that resonate with his followers, he also successfully integrated slideware in the form of an "Enhanced Version" online. Then candidate Obama's use of new media and online presence clearly helped to push him into the presidency.

Compare this slick online branding and regular online updates from the White House to the response given by Michele Bachmann and her two charts (1, 2). Then look at a capture from the Enhanced Version of President Obama's remarks. Congresswoman Bachmann's slides look like something from every poorly designed PowerPoint presentation ever given in a corporate meeting room. But, to her credit, she did at least attempt some use of visual media. Perhaps there aren't any Republican friendly communication companies. For example, one of my favorites, Duarte Design, is known for helping Al Gore win the Academy Award for An Inconvenient Truth! I don't recall any of the communication design companies I follow even saying anything remotely conservative in orientation. Does this mean Republicans and conservatives are doomed? I guess it will all depend on how quickly new media advocates like Hugh Hewitt can get the message out: you need to look at least as good as the opposition to survive! Excellent advice for us all.

I also recommend viewing the short video Inside the White House: State of the Union where we get a behind-the-scenes look at preparation for this important public speaking engagement. I feel a little closer to President Obama after seeing him using my favorite pen at 02:41 in the video. It sure looks like a uni-ball Vision Elite to me!