by Joe Domaleski | Dec 4, 2023 | Blog, Business, Columnists, Community, Front Page, News Center, Opinion
When I was younger, I got most of my information from traditional media sources – TV, radio, newspapers, magazines, books, and word of mouth. Once the gatekeepers of knowledge and news, traditional media have had to adapt and compete in a realm where digital media dominates. This shift has dramatically broadened access to information, democratizing access to knowledge in unprecedented ways. Yet, it has also introduced challenges in how information is filtered and shared, often making the digital space less democratic than it appears.
Make no mistake, I love the Internet and have been using it personally and professionally throughout my entire career. In the late 90s, I decided to learn web development, and that love for online communications directly led to the founding of my company 20 years ago. Yet, if I’m honest, the vast proliferation of information has necessitated necessary, but not necessarily ‘fair,’ ways of ensuring that information reaches people. This is an article I feel uniquely qualified to write, since it’s my business to figure out how to help organizations ‘get noticed’ online. It’s a complex topic. Let’s make a distinction between two key terms.
Freedom of speech is a fundamental right in many societies, allowing individuals to express their ideas and opinions without censorship or restraint. It’s a cornerstone of democracy, fostering a marketplace of diverse views. For the most part, in our country, there’s a wide latitude in what one can say, post, or publish.
Freedom of reach is a relatively new concept, particularly relevant in the digital era. It refers to the extent to which content is disseminated across digital platforms. In other words, while you can say (almost) anything you want, how far your message travels online is a different matter. Traditionally, reach was directly controlled by publishers of content (human beings). Nowadays, reach is most dictated by algorithms (computers).
The Role of Algorithms
Algorithms, the invisible architects of the digital world, play a pivotal role in dictating what we see and read online. These complex formulas are used to process data and generate specific outcomes. They determine which content appears in our social media feeds, search engine results, and even news recommendations. The primary goal of these algorithms is to maximize user engagement, which can lead to a skewed representation of information – highlighting sensational, divisive, or extreme content over more moderate, nuanced perspectives.
Here’s how algorithms control what’s seen online:
- Personalization: Algorithms analyze user behavior — such as clicks, likes, shares, search history, and time spent on content — to learn preferences. This data helps platforms present content that aligns with individual tastes or interests.
- Search Results: Search engines use algorithms to determine the relevance and ranking of web pages in search results. Factors like keywords, site authority, and user engagement influence these rankings.
- Social Media Feeds: Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram use algorithms to curate and prioritize posts in a user’s feed. They consider factors such as the user’s interactions, the popularity of a post, and the recency of content.
- Content Moderation: Algorithms are used to monitor and filter out inappropriate content, such as hate speech or graphic violence, based on predefined criteria.
- Advertising and Recommendations: Algorithms determine which advertisements and recommendations are most relevant to a user, based on their online behavior and demographic information.
- Trending Topics: Algorithms identify and promote trending topics, news, and hashtags, often based on the frequency and recency of posts.
For businesses, these algorithms can create an uneven playing field, where viral content overshadows quality information. For individuals, they can lead to echo chambers, reinforcing existing beliefs and shielding us from diverse viewpoints.
Strategies to Tackle the Challenges
- Promote Digital Literacy: Understanding how algorithms work is crucial. Businesses and individuals should educate themselves and their communities about digital literacy, fostering an environment where people critically evaluate the content they consume online.
- Diversify Information Sources: Don’t rely on a single platform or source for information. Encourage exploration of various news outlets, blogs, and forums to get a more balanced view of current events and opinions.
- Engage Responsibly: Be mindful of what you share and engage with online. Remember, every click, like, and share contributes to how algorithms prioritize content.
- Support Algorithm Transparency: Advocate for more transparency from tech companies about how their algorithms work. Understanding these mechanisms better can help businesses and consumers make more informed decisions.
- Utilize Alternative Platforms: Explore and support platforms that prioritize content diversity and ethical algorithms. This diversification can reduce the echo chamber effect.
- Voice Concerns: If you notice biases or unfair practices in digital platforms, speak up. User feedback can be a powerful tool in prompting companies to revisit their algorithmic strategies.
- Support Local Content: Although local content seen through a social media feed is still governed by algorithms, most local websites are not. Websites like this one feature hand-curated content, placing stories on the homepage that are likely of interest to the local audience.
- Engage with Less Popular Social Media Accounts: It’s human nature to support what’s already popular. Doing so just reinforces the algorithm. Seek out accounts, particularly those of small businesses and non-profits, where you can like, follow, and share their content to help them be seen. Algorithms amplify what’s popular and make them more popular. You never know – perhaps that one extra ‘like’ you gave your dog sitter may help their post be seen by more people and help them get new business.
Conclusion
Possessing freedom of speech doesn’t automatically grant freedom of reach. In our modern digital era, the dissemination of information is predominantly driven by algorithms, often powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI). While these algorithms can organize content and offer a more personalized experience, they also have the potential to limit and skew our exposure to a wide range of information. As we navigate this landscape, it’s crucial to find a balance between the advantages of algorithmic curation and the awareness of its limitations. Promoting digital literacy, diversifying our sources of information, supporting local content, and engaging online in a responsible manner are key steps in mitigating the effects of echo chambers and fostering a more democratic digital environment. As business leaders, marketers, and everyday consumers, we have the collective power to shape how algorithms influence our digital experiences. Embracing this responsibility, we can strive towards a digital ecosystem that upholds diversity, fairness, and transparency, contributing to a more informed and interconnected community.
[Joe Domaleski, a Fayette County resident for 25 years, is the owner of Country Fried Creative – an award-winning digital marketing agency located in Peachtree City. His company was the Fayette Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year. Joe is a husband, father of three grown children, and proud Army veteran. He has an MBA from Georgia State University and enjoys sharing his perspectives drawing from thirty years of business leadership experience. Sign up for the Country Fried Creative newsletter to get marketing and business articles directly in your inbox. ]
by Joe Domaleski | Nov 27, 2023 | Blog, Business, Columnists, Community, Front Page, News Center, Opinion
Has your attention span gotten shorter? I know mine has. The constant barrage of tweets, status updates, text messages, and bite-sized blurbs caters to a world that values immediacy over depth. This trend towards brevity, while convenient, has fostered a culture of superficial reading and fleeting focus. There’s a time and place for short-form reading, but not at the expense of longer works like books, novels, and essays.
Long-form reading is a necessary counterbalance to our impatience for oversimplified answers. It is a practice that not only fortifies our attention spans but also improves our cognitive abilities, deepens our understanding of complex subjects, and provides more enjoyment of fictional works. Recently, I’ve dusted off my Kindle e-reader and printed books in a deliberate effort to do more reading, like I did when I was younger.
Long-form reading can be a powerful tool for personal and professional growth, offering a much-needed reprieve from the shallowness of quick consumption. It allows good fictional stories to fully develop and non-fiction works to thoroughly explore a topic. Recently, I attended a business luncheon at the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce, which featured some of our area’s finest writers and their books. Being around so many great local writers and leaders further validated my return to long-form reading.
Enjoying a book by Professor Brian Cox on my Kindle e-reader out at Sam’s Lake Nature Area. Photo/Joe Domaleski
Here’s why I find long-form reading beneficial:
- Deepens Understanding and Knowledge – Long-form reading allows for a deeper dive into topics. This is crucial for understanding complex subjects, trends, and strategies. It’s not just about skimming the surface; it’s about truly comprehending the ins and outs of your industry, competitors, and market dynamics.
- Enhances Focus and Concentration – In a world filled with notifications and short-form content, our attention spans are shrinking. Dedicating time to long-form reading helps to rebuild that lost focus and concentration. This is vital for leaders who need to make well-considered decisions.
- Stimulates Creativity and Innovation – Reading a wide range of materials, including fiction, can spark creativity. It exposes you to different perspectives, ideas, and storytelling techniques that can inspire innovative thinking in your business practices and in your personal life.
- Improves Communication Skills – Long-form reading enhances vocabulary and comprehension, which in turn improves your communication skills. I love the Kindle’s ability to look up words and concepts as I’m reading. As a business owner, effective reading and communication are key to negotiations, sales, marketing, and team management.
- Offers a Break from the Digital World – Reading a physical book or even long-form content on an e-reader provides a necessary respite from screens. This break is not only good for your eyes but also for your mental health, offering a form of relaxation and stress relief.
- Keeps You Informed and Ahead of the Curve – In business, staying informed about the latest trends, case studies, and success stories is essential. Long-form content often provides detailed analyses that social media snippets simply cannot.
- Builds Empathy and Understanding – Reading about different cultures, experiences, and industries in long-form content helps build empathy. This is crucial for a small business owner, as it aids in understanding customers, employees, and business partners from diverse backgrounds. It’s difficult to convey nuanced ideas in short-form content.
- Promotes Continuous Learning and Personal Development – Long-form reading promotes continuous learning. As a business owner, the learning never stops. Books, in-depth articles, and case studies are invaluable for personal and professional growth. Not everything needs to be non-fiction. Reading fictional works helps to inspire creativity and expansive thought.
Consider adding long-form reading to your routine. In an era dominated by fleeting content, seek out opportunities for more depth and understanding. It stands as an antidote to the diminishing attention spans fostered by short-form media, offering a pathway to richer insights and sustained focus. For business owners like myself, this practice is invaluable. It equips me with the patience to delve into complex concepts, the wisdom to make well-informed decisions, and the creativity that stems from broad and deep knowledge.
By prioritizing depth over immediacy, long-form reading becomes a powerful tool, cultivating a mindset that values thoroughness and contemplation. In a world that often skims the surface, dedicating time to immersive reading is a commitment to going deeper. This holiday season is a perfect time to read a new book. Right now, I’m reading “Building a Second Brain” by Tiago Forte and “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” by Gabrielle Zevin. What are you reading? Feel free to connect with me on Goodreads, and we can share book ideas.
[Joe Domaleski, a Fayette County resident for 25 years, is the owner of Country Fried Creative – an award-winning digital marketing agency located in Peachtree City. His company was the Fayette Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year. Joe is a husband, father of three grown children, and proud Army veteran. He has an MBA from Georgia State University and enjoys sharing his perspectives drawing from thirty years of business leadership experience. Sign up for the Country Fried Creative newsletter to get marketing and business articles directly in your inbox. ]
by Joe Domaleski | Nov 20, 2023 | Blog, Business, Columnists, Community, Front Page, News Center, Opinion
Happy Thanksgiving. This year, like many before, has had its share of challenges. Economic uncertainties, ever-changing market demands, and the balancing act of personal and professional responsibilities have all tested our resilience and patience. It’s easy to be grateful during the good times, but how about the tough times? I know many of you who are reading this article are struggling. However, amidst these hurdles, Thanksgiving reminds us of the importance of gratitude, even when times are tough. A year ago, I wrote about gratitude in the marketplace and made the following comment:
People who can endure adversity with a cheerful, optimistic disposition [inspire me].
That still holds true, maybe more so this year than last year. Let’s explore some ways we can embrace gratitude during challenging times:
1. Recognizing the Value of Community Support
First and foremost, I am deeply thankful for the awesome support of our local community. In an era where big chains often overshadow small businesses, the loyalty and encouragement we receive from our customers are inspirational and heartwarming. Each sale, each positive review, and every referral has been a vote of confidence in what we do. It’s a reminder that our business is more than just a transactional space; it’s a part of a community that values and supports each other.
2. Appreciating the Dedication of Our Team
Our team is the backbone of our business. Their dedication, creativity, and adaptability have been instrumental in navigating this year’s challenges. I am immensely grateful for their hard work and the positive attitude they bring to work every day. Their commitment not only drives our business forward but also creates a workplace that feels like a second home.
3. Learning from Challenges
This year has also been a teacher. Each obstacle we faced taught us valuable lessons about resilience, innovation, and the importance of being agile in the marketplace. I am grateful for these lessons, as they have not only strengthened our business model but also helped me grow personally and professionally.
4. The Gift of Giving Back
In the spirit of Thanksgiving, our business has had the opportunity to give back to the community that supports us. Whether it’s through sponsoring local events, participating in charity drives, or simply offering a helping hand to those in need, these acts of kindness have brought us immense joy and fulfillment. We have so many great non-profit organizations in this community and we take pride in supporting as many as we can.
5. Cherishing Personal Growth
Finally, on a personal note, this journey as a small business owner has been enriching. The challenges have made me more resilient, the successes more appreciative, and the journey itself more meaningful. I am grateful for the personal growth that has come with running a business. There are some things you just can’t learn in a classroom, from a webinar, or by reading a book – you have to get out there and do it.
Happy Thanksgiving from everyone here at CFC. Photo/Joe Domaleski
As we celebrate Thanksgiving, let’s remember that gratitude isn’t just about being thankful for the good times; it’s also about finding reasons to be thankful amidst the trials. It’s about recognizing the people who stand by us, the lessons learned, and the small victories along the way.
To my fellow small business owners, customers, friends, and family – thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to embracing gratitude, not just during Thanksgiving but every day of the year.
[Joe Domaleski, a Fayette County resident for 25 years, is the owner of Country Fried Creative – an award-winning digital marketing agency located in Peachtree City. His company was the Fayette Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year. Joe is a husband, father of three grown children, and proud Army veteran. He has an MBA from Georgia State University and enjoys sharing his perspectives drawing from thirty years of business leadership experience. Sign up for the Country Fried Creative newsletter to get marketing and business articles directly in your inbox. ]
by Joe Domaleski | Nov 13, 2023 | Blog, Business, Columnists, Community, Front Page, News Center, Opinion
Recently our country celebrated Veterans Day. Thank you to all of the veterans who may be reading this article. It was my honor to serve as both an enlisted soldier and later as a commissioned officer in the US Army Infantry. Although I received some leadership training as a Boy Scout, my first real taste of leadership was in the military. FM 22-100 Military Leadership, is the Army’s basic manual on leadership and was my first formal introduction to leadership training.
While the contexts of military operations and small business management may seem worlds apart, the core principles of effective leadership transcend boundaries. In this article, I’ll explore how these military leadership tenets can be adapted and applied to small business leadership.
What is Leadership?
“Leadership is the process of influencing others to accomplish the mission by providing purpose, direction, and motivation.” – FM 22-100
Whether you are leading troops on the battlefield, employees during the work day, or a client through a strategy session I think this definition of leadership as “influence” is applicable, so let’s go with that. To better understand how military leadership principles can be effectively translated into the business realm, let’s delve into the Army’s fundamental leadership framework: Be, Know, Do.
Private Joe Domaleski, Basic Training 1985. Photo/US Army Infantry School
Be, Know, Do: The Foundation of Leadership
The Army’s leadership framework is built on three simple, yet profound, words: Be, Know, Do. This framework contains the essence of what it means to be a leader in any field.
Be: This involves character traits and values. Integrity, responsibility, and respect are not just military virtues; they are equally vital in the business world. As a business leader, embodying these qualities sets a tone for your company culture and builds trust among your team and clients.
Know: Knowledge in the Army covers technical skills and tactical proficiency. In business, this translates to understanding your market, your products & services, and the intricacies of managing a business. Continuous learning and adaptation are key to staying competitive and effective.
Do: This is about taking action and setting the example. In small business, this means not just delegating tasks but also being willing to roll up your sleeves and get involved in all aspects of the business.
Decisive and Confident Leadership
In the military, decisiveness and confidence are critical in high-pressure situations. Similarly, in business, making timely decisions confidently—even in the face of uncertainty—can be the difference between success and failure. However, this doesn’t mean rushing into decisions without proper consideration; it means gathering the necessary information quickly, evaluating options, and then confidently making a decision.
Adaptive and Flexible Approach
Just as the military must adapt to rapid changes on the battlefield, businesses must be agile in response to market dynamics. The ability to pivot strategies, embrace new technologies, and innovate processes is crucial for small businesses to thrive. Equally important is the ability to multitask, maintaining focus on immediate tasks while keeping an awareness of the overall situation.
Mission First, People Always
The Army’s principle of putting the mission first while taking care of its people is incredibly applicable to small business. Your business goals (the mission) are important, but achieving these goals is only possible through your team (your people). Fostering a supportive, inclusive, and motivating work environment is as essential in business as it is in the military.
Clear Communication and Effective Teamwork
Clear, concise communication is a cornerstone of military operations and is equally important in business. Effective communication ensures that everyone understands their roles, responsibilities, and the business objectives. Teamwork, built on the foundation of effective communication, is vital for achieving business goals.
Ethical Leadership and Responsibility
Commissioning day June 1989 as a new Second Lieutenant. Pictured here with my father CPT (RET) Ed Domaleski, a Vietnam Veteran. Photo/Jean Domaleski
The military emphasizes ethical leadership and taking responsibility for actions. In business, ethical considerations and social responsibility not only enhance your brand’s reputation but also contribute to a sustainable business model.
Yes, we used to joke that “there’s a right way, a wrong way, and the Army way”. Not everything in the military is ideal, nor is civilian life. On the whole, FM 22-100 was a great introduction to leadership when I was a young Lieutenant. It continues to be a good reference nearly 35 years later. Reflecting on these insights, it becomes clear that the principles outlined in FM 22-100’s definition of leadership offer valuable lessons beyond the military context.
FM 22-100 offers helpful leadership guidance that can be applied in business and public service. It emphasizes the importance of influencing others, not just through authority, but by instilling purpose, direction, and motivation. Leaders are tasked not only with achieving specific goals but also with enhancing the capabilities and wellbeing of their organizations and teams. This holistic approach to leadership underscores the balance between accomplishing objectives and nurturing the development of individuals and the organization as a whole, making it a universally applicable and enduring model of effective leadership.
What are some of your favorite leadership books or references?
[Joe Domaleski, a Fayette County resident for 25 years, is the owner of Country Fried Creative – an award-winning digital marketing agency located in Peachtree City. His company was the Fayette Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year. Joe is a husband, father of three grown children, and proud Army veteran. He has an MBA from Georgia State University and enjoys sharing his perspectives drawing from thirty years of business leadership experience. Sign up for the Country Fried Creative newsletter to get marketing and business articles directly in your inbox. ]
by Joe Domaleski | Nov 6, 2023 | Blog, Business, Columnists, Community, Front Page, News Center, Opinion
Dealing with high-maintenance people and situations is always a challenge, but it’s even more so during the holiday season. High-maintenance situations are extra tricky during this time because everyone is in a hurry, and patience is in short supply.
A high-maintenance person or situation is often characterized by intense and sometimes excessive and disproportionate demands on time, attention, or resources. High-maintenance individuals may have exacting standards, require a great deal of emotional support, or insist on special treatment.
The term is not always negative and can vary widely in its application. In the context of people, it may simply refer to someone who has specific preferences and is vocal about them, akin to “the squeaky wheel gets the grease.” When it pertains to a situation, it normally refers to something that should be simple but isn’t and requires recurring care and precise attention to detail.
Dealing with high-maintenance individuals (or situations), whether they involve clients, colleagues, family members, or personal acquaintances, can present a variety of challenges:
Time Consumption: High-maintenance situations often require a disproportionate amount of time and attention. This can be taxing and detract from other responsibilities or relationships.
Emotional Drain: Excessive demands can be emotionally draining, as they often involve people who need reassurance or have frequent complaints that need addressing.
Resource Allocation: Situations that are high-maintenance can monopolize resources that could be more evenly distributed or used more efficiently elsewhere.
Conflict and Stress: High-maintenance scenarios may generate conflict or stress among those involved, leading to a tense environment.
Unpredictability: The expectations of high-maintenance individuals might change frequently, making it difficult to anticipate their needs or plan accordingly.
Boundaries: Establishing and maintaining boundaries with high-maintenance people can be challenging, as they might push back or ignore them.
Communication: People who are high-maintenance may require more elaborate communication and can misinterpret or be dissatisfied with information, regardless of its clarity or frequency.
Performance Pressure: The pressure to meet high-maintenance standards can lead to stress and impact performance or quality of work.
Opportunity Cost: If you’re running a business, catering to high-maintenance individuals can lead to missed opportunities, as their demands can distract from focusing on new or more profitable ventures.
Relationship Dynamics: The behavior of high-maintenance individuals can alter group dynamics, leading to imbalances and potential resentment from others.
Most high-maintenance people don’t see themselves that way, which presents an extra challenge for those trying to deal with them. Over the years, I have been guilty of “feeding” high-maintenance situations and people by not setting proper boundaries and expectations. When you’re in the customer service business like I am, you want your clients to be happy. Sometimes doing that one “no-charge favor” turns into an ongoing set of unsustainable expectations. People for whom you did that one-time favor often forget the circumstances, and the extra care becomes the new, unsustainable normal.
Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years on how to deal with high-maintenance people and situations (yes, this can include friends/family):
- Understand the Underlying Needs – Often, high-maintenance behavior stems from past experiences where a person’s needs were not adequately met. Take the time to understand their concerns. Are they seeking quality, attention to detail, or simply reassurance? By addressing the underlying need, you can often preempt their demands.
- Communicate Clearly and Frequently – Misunderstandings can amplify high-maintenance tendencies. Set clear expectations from the start and maintain regular communication. This doesn’t mean being at their beck and call but providing timely updates and responses. It reassures them that they’re in capable hands. Always take notes and keep a written record, especially if you’re dealing with clients or business situations.
- Set Firm Boundaries – It’s essential to establish boundaries regarding availability, scope of work, and the communication process. Be assertive but polite when conveying these limits. Remember, boundaries are not just for you; they’re for the client to have a clear understanding of the working relationship.
- Charge Appropriately – If a client requires an exceptional amount of your time and resources, it’s reasonable to adjust your rates to compensate for this. Explain that the level of service they require incurs additional charges. This can often lead to a more balanced relationship. I wrote a previous article about the cost and value of customer service.
- Stay Organized – High-maintenance clients and situations can send you into a tailspin if you’re not organized. Keep meticulous records of all communications and agreements. This will not only keep you sane but also provide a point of reference for any disputes.
- Be Empathetic – Put yourself in their shoes. High-maintenance clients often just want to be heard and valued. Show empathy, and often you’ll find that this alone can de-escalate a situation.
- Train Your Team – Ensure that everyone on your team knows how to deal with high-maintenance people effectively. Training should include de-escalation techniques, customer service skills, and stress management.
- Pick Your Battles – Sometimes, it’s not about the coffee being too hot or the report being too long; it’s about feeling important. Know when to give in to small demands and when to stand firm.
- Maintain Professionalism – Regardless of how demanding or unreasonable requests may seem, always maintain a professional demeanor. This upholds your reputation and sets the tone for the relationship.
- Know When to Walk Away – In rare cases, if a client’s demands become too much for you to handle, it may be best to part ways. Do so professionally, and provide them with options, such as referring them to another service provider. If it’s a family member or friend, you may need to walk away and get a fresh perspective on the situation so you can re-engage at a later time.
I tend to like to solve problems and situations immediately, then move on. To me, most problematic situations and relationships are fixable. Over the years, I’ve learned that not everyone is willing or able to do that. After I’ve made a best-efforts attempt at resolution, oftentimes I’ll seek outside counsel to get fresh perspectives. If that still doesn’t fix the situation or relationship, then I look for an exit strategy. Life is too short to be miserable, and honestly, some people in life just don’t want to be happy. I’m not one of those people.
In conclusion, handling high-maintenance people is an exercise in balance—balancing their needs with your own, balancing empathy with assertiveness, and balancing accommodation with boundary-setting. Keep your cool by staying prepared, composed, and understanding, and you’ll navigate these complex relationships with grace and professionalism.
How do you intend to handle high-maintenance people and situations this holiday season?
[Joe Domaleski, a Fayette County resident for 25 years, is the owner of Country Fried Creative – an award-winning digital marketing agency located in Peachtree City. His company was the Fayette Chamber’s 2021 Small Business of the Year. Joe is a husband, father of three grown children, and proud Army veteran. He has an MBA from Georgia State University and enjoys sharing his perspectives drawing from thirty years of business leadership experience. Sign up for the Country Fried Creative newsletter to get marketing and business articles directly in your inbox. ]
