We see it all the time – broadcast professionals who could do a better job prepping their shows.
Whether it’s making an appearance at an event in a town or speaking in front of a group, some basic research can make all the difference in the world when it comes to making an effective personal connection. And showing that you care.
It’s often the same thing with job interviewees, many of whom don’t know much about the station or company they’re apparently trying to work for. Access to the stream, the website, and social media pages can fill in most of the blanks, making an applicant sound sharp, plugged in, and ready to go to work for a new organization.
Take it from Mick Jagger and the Rolling Stones, a rock n’ roll institution with nothing left to prove. They recently performed in Israel (the first time ever), and Mick Jagger consistently peppered the audience with Hebrew phrases and greetings.
This ranged from the basic greeting (“Erev tov, Tel Aviv” which translates as “Good evening, Tel Aviv”) to a greeting recognizing a major Jewish holiday, Shavuot (“Chag Shavuot Sameach Yisrael”).
And it went on. Jagger introed Charlie Watts and led an audience sing-along in honor of his 73rd birthday (“Yom Huledet”).
Jagger was obviously coached, but isn’t that the point? Unlike many jaded rock stars who would have just gone through the set with basic English greetings or even a “Shalom” here and there, there was obvious prep that took place. And that indicates a strong desire to bring the band’s A game – amazing after four decades.
And that communicates to the audience that the band cares. The Stones didn’t need to do this. The show was sold out and would have been considered a smashing success with just the band showing up and playing its big hits.
But instead, a little work, some prep time, and a bit of effort turns another arena show into a unique, memorable, and personalized connection. And of course, that’s the making of a viral story that is now being shared by millions of web users, instead of just another mundane report about the Stones on the road.
Thanks to my friend, Rabbi Jason Miller, for bringing this story by David Horowitz of the Times of Israel to my attention.
And in case you’re wondering, Keith Richards may have been uttering Hebrew phrases, but no one knew for sure.
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
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Excellent point … With social media it truly is so much easier to find that stuff nowadays …the funny thing though is the reaction on the other line when you bring that stuff up ..
Great read Fred…
FC
Thanks for the kind words & for chiming in, Frank.
Cool commentary, Fred. But who is standing next to Mick Jagger that looks like a 1969 version of John Lennon? (I know I SHOULD know…. but I don’t)
Thanks – and that would be Ronnie Wood. We’re all getting older!