The other components of WOMM-U have been even more exciting from my perspective. There are 12 "faculty-led" tracks that occur 6 times throughout the two days. I have the honor of leading one of the groups focused on activating word of mouth in social networks. What has been so wonderful about this approach is that we have 10 to 14 folks around a table who are sharing their very real struggles with the tactical side of WOM, and their peers around that table then help to offer guidance and suggestions from their own experiences. I am working to compile all of the great ideas that are coming out of the discussions in my groups and will be able to share them with all of the participants sometime next week. How great to have the ideas, struggles and thoughts about WOM in Social Networks from more than 50 practitioners! My only wish is that I could participate in other sessions as well as my own.
The third component, WOMM in Action, is a fabulous idea – kudos again to the board and organizers of this event. The concept here is that all of the attendees divide up into three groups, and each group is tasked with solving a very real challenge for one of three non-profits. My group is working on a plan for the Overtown Youth Center here in Miami, and the other two groups are helping two environmental causes. This is WOM at its best – being employed to build grassroots advocacy and support to make a difference in the world beyond commercialism.
I’m looking forward to the rest of the day with my fellow WOMM professionals, and will be coming home with lots of new ideas!
