Bourbon & Branch

Sometimes, a little journey into the past helps us see the present. Enter, San Francisco.

Late last night, @sexythinker and I returned home after two days in that amazing city. The topic that made the trip possible was, of course, Social Media. However, one stop we made has helped solidify some of my thoughts for those who are beginning to enter the Social web. Bourbon & Branch, a self-described “glimpse back on the 1920s and the era of Prohibition,” was that one stop.

To keep my description of Bourbon & Branch brief and not-so-eloquent, let me just say that it’s a very cool place. The next time you’re in San Fran, be sure to make a reservation. In fact, I’m going to get all Ferris Bueller on you and make this recommendation: “It is so choice. If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up.”

Back to the point I’m trying to make. Here’s what my visit to Bourbon & Branch has left me thinking in regard to Social Media:

1. The first time for anything always provides a little uncertainty. That first leap into the Social web is like going to Bourbon & Branch for the first time. You might have a little trouble finding it, and you’ll need a password before you walk through the door. Trust me, in both cases, it’s totally worth it.

2. It helps to have a guide who heightens the experience and makes the navigation easy. At Bourbon & Branch, your server is that guide. In Social Media, there are plenty of people perfectly willing to provide that same service.

3. There are some rules, some guidelines, some principles, that need to be followed. In most cases, those things are set in place to ensure the enjoyment of the experience, both for you and for those around you. One thing: “Bending” of the rules will happen, so handle that situation gracefully when it does.

Dear Bourbon & Branch,

Sorry ‘bout the “No Cell Phone Use” thing.

Love,
Chris


P.S. If it’s time to develop your company’s Social Media Strategy, join us in Dallas on February 24 and 25 for Talent Revolution LIVE.

We’ll give you the password when you make your reservation...