So far I have gone out of order of events from the summit, by talking about the International Diabetes Federation and their O is for Outrage campaign and then the lunch time talk by Jeffrey Brewer from JDRF. Let’s go back to the future. The first part of the Roche Social Media Summit two weeks ago was a 140 character introduction of all the attendees. I didn’t remember what I wrote, so I was a little nervous. Most people seemed to guess everybody’s, so it was a cool introduction. The first speaker was going to be an introduction from Dan Kane, VP Marketing for Roche. Usually the first thing that you think of when it comes to a VP of marketing is, “this guy is going to be a smooth talker to take my money somehow.” Dan Kane was a smooth talker, but he also seems genuine and understood the importance of social media.
As some of you know, one aspect of my consulting business is social media management, and getting companies to understand the meaning of Social ROI and that it isn’t about a bottom line number. Dan Kane seemed to get this fact, or at least sounded like he understood it. Dan used his speaking time to relate this summit to a first date and a new relationship. When you first 
meet somebody, you don’t just ask for a kiss right away, you slowly build somewhat of a relationship and let the kiss happen naturally. I believe that I tweeted during the actual #dsummit itself, “flashbacks of the birds and bees conversation my father gave to me as a child”, or something of that affect.
One quote that stood out to me the most was when said, “In order for us to be a better company, we have to know you better.” At that exact moment I said, “This guy gets it”. Dan Kane understood the fact that Social ROI is not measured the same way as most ROI is. Social ROI is all about engagement. Responding and reacting to the DOC, sharing DOC stories, and not just pushing your own information and your own agenda.
I was impressed with Dan Kane and what he had to say. He made me feel like he really meant what he was saying and trust is key in the beginning of a relationship, especially when a kiss is needed!
Up next tomorrow is about the Dr. Polonsky speech. I think that I may disagree with a lot of people on this term. He seems like a great guy, but for me, his speech almost put me to sleep, and I will explain more tomorrow.
You’re right, Chris: Dan gets it, and his vision is one that’s pretty inpiring. Glad to read your recap, as with all the others. I’ll look forward to reading the next one on Dr. Polonsky, too – though we probably do disagree, as it was one of the most personally tangible discussions for me. But it’s the same as all D-aspects: YDMV, and life generally.
Mike,
Thanks for the comments and I am glad that you enjoyed the review. You may disagree, but I feel that you will respect my opinion of it, which is what matters most. I am fine with people disagreeing with me, but when it’s disrespect, it’s a lot different. You will read more tomorrow, but basically, I have never had that feeling of diabetes depression or hating diabetes or needing a Glucose Getaway or anything. I have diabetes and I have accepted it. Accepting it has allowed me to just deal with things that come along with it. I get more upset when the Phillies lose a game.
Exactly, my friend. It’s all about respect, and that’s what makes our community go round.
I wish I’d never had depression, but I did for a long time – and currently do. Spent a lot of time in denial growing up in my teens and early 20s, and just a huge sense of hopelessness took away that ability to just accept it for what it is. It can be tough, and I envy those who don’t experience that at all or to the same degree – can be tough. And I’m one of those who feels like it’s “an excuse,” so it just feeds off itself and make me feel guilty and so on and so forth.
But hey, can’t wait to read your take on Polonsky.
Now, about the Phillies losing… Pa-leez. You National League people. But if we’re going to get into the American League, we’ll stay on good stuff like those Detroit Tigers. That’s a TOTALLY different story.
:O
I think what Dr. Polonsky does is amazing for those that can benefit from it, I just don’t personally. And the Phillies just lost on a walk-off homerun as I was reading your comment!