A few weeks ago, I took to this space to discuss the value electrical
distributors bring to the supply chain. Since then, I’ve heard quite a few
comments from members about the need to continue this discussion.
The tED Think
Tank on Linked-In has also received this topic enthusiastically. If you’re
not a member of this group, you should be. With more than 2,100 members strong, it’s
a great forum for keeping up with trends and thinking within our industry -- and
even sound off on your own ideas.
To me, the Think Tank’s lively debate is indicative of a
deeper need for the industry to come together, explore ways we can overcome “middle-man
misconceptions” and drive home our value assertions.
So let’s have an open discussion. In real time. At a place that’s convenient for anyone
with an Internet connection. Let’s say August 8, at 10 a.m. on Twitter.
We’ve set that date for tEDmag.com’s
first Twitter chat, and I hope you use this opportunity to listen and chime in
using our hashtag #tEDChat.
Send us your questions on this debate in advance, and we’ll
bring them up during the tEDChat. Submit them in the comments below or through
any of our social media
channels.
Because this is our industry’s first official Twitter chat,
questions are expected. Share them with us, read
up on Twitter
chats, and see the below tips for getting started after you’ve set up your Twitter
profile. See you on 8/8!
- Consider
Your Tool: Try out a tool like Tweetchat, which helps you see only the
tweets with your hashtag. It also automatically includes your hashtag at the
end of your tweets. Here’s more about chat
tools (along with an extensive list of other chats). Such tools are optional but can make
participation easier.
- Plan
Ahead: Once the ball gets rolling, a Twitter chat
can move pretty fast. Jot down any ideas or questions you have before the
discussion so you’re sure to bring them up.
- Follow
and Listen: Follow the moderator, @tEDMagazine and click on the hashtag
#tEDChat within a tweet to see all the tweets of everyone participating in the
discussion. You can also search for “#tEDChat” on Twitter to see everything
said during the chat.
- Get
involved: Ask questions and share your
thoughts, including #tED chat at the end of each tweet so it’s included in the
discussion for everyone else to see.