What do you want to read?

I have never been a big fan of seminars, workshops or conferences.

There is usually a lot of talk going on, not enough action and usually the most boring speakers are just after you had a huge lunch. You have to pretend to listen without falling asleep.

Last week all the editors, branch and digital managers attended a conference at the picturesque Glenburn Lodge and the focus was on social and digital media. For once, I can honestly say it was not boring at all.

The speakers were interesting and the content of their speeches was topical and relevant. So, what does the future hold for the paper? The Record will definitely remain a print publication, but we are also moving forward with the times to include our digital and social media side as well.

The focus was placed on how digital and social can enhance an article and how to get more traffic to our sites. Did you know that sending an SMS is still the most effective way to communicate? But having said that, people are apparently very lazy to text.

Digital is definitely taking over the world, but for those who still enjoy the feel and smell of a paper, do not fear, you will continue to receive your paper on a weekly basis.

The Thursday evening entertainment was an Idols SA contestant going by the name of Bongi. I don’t watch Idols SA but I’ll take the organisers word for it. He was very good, singing in Afrikaans and English, telling jokes and enjoying the evening with a bunch of media people.

Another area we have to focus on is finding out what our readers want, especially on social media. So, what do you want to read on social media?

Please let me know. Send your comments to roelienv@caxton.co.za

Until next week, take care of one another.

Ciao