Radical Behavior

Steve Rubel is a prolific blogger who explores how technology is revolutionizing PR and Marketing. Steve works for Edelman, the largest global independent public relations firm. Steve’s blog is always chalked full of great links, news on the latest web technologies and insights into how PR and marketing professionals can utilize the web to their advantage. Steve was gracious enough to answer my 5 question email interview.

1. I recently watched you on episode 14 of CalacanisCast. Do you think it was odd to have a fatblogger eat a doughnut while recording a video podcast?

   Jason Calacanis never surprises me. He lives his own life and it works for him. Expect the unexpected with Jason.

2. Where is your favorite place to social network offline? Conventions, Social Clubs ( i.e. Social Media Club), Professional Groups (i.e. PRSA), Bars, or the Library?

   I love Starbucks and bookstores for hanging out. I remember hanging with Dave Winer and Mike Kaltschnee at a Starbucks a few years ago and we had a hoot (Starbucks is an Edelman client)

3. If you were going to impart one bit of knowledge on the PR industry as a whole, what would it be?

   Never be afraid to dabble in new technology. It’s our future. Some 80% may not pan out but the 20% that does could pay off immensely.

4. What is it about widgets that gets you so excited? How do you see widgets infiltrating the mainstream?

   Widgets are part of a broader trend. We live in a media environment where people like to snack on content all day long and then eat more substantive meals when they have time. Everyone needs to think about taking their content and making it small so it fits where people want to snack it.

5. Speaking of the mainstream, how do you keep up with “what is mainstream?” When so much of your time is spent researching the cutting and bleeding edge, do you find it difficult to stay in touch with the regular computer user?

   I work in a terrific firm with a lot of smart people. I help Edelman stay ahead, but my teammates help me stay in the here and now. It’s a balance, but I work on it every day.