Have you read the articles buzzing around this week quoting Google co-founder Larry Page and his concerns that Google needs to be in the business of real-time search? Here’s an example of how I’m already turning to Twitter for real-time search (depending on what I’m searching for). If you’re skeptic of the value Twitter can provide, this mini-mini-micro-case study is easy, clear, simple example of how it can actually be useful regardless of your participation in the Twittersphere. Take that Google

Here’s a tip I came up with: whenever I’m shopping for things online- right when I’m about to checkout, I go to http://search.twitter.com and search for “[company name here] coupon code” or “discount”. So far, 3 out of the last 5 I’ve purchased online, I have found coupon codes to use.

Remember the downtown video blog I did for the opening of the first grocery store here downtown in Kansas City? I was there recently for my usual super-quick-in-and-out shopping run for Orange Gatorade and some lunch meats and ran into John Cosentinos (he’s the owner). He was complimentary of the vblog (suh-weet!) but more importantly provided this thought-provoking quote:

“The video blog you shot was great, I’ve had more people mention it, or contact me after watching it — more than when I’m published in the Kansas City Star.”

Just think about that for a moment, [pause].  While this is not a scientific measurement by any means, it’s still worth noting.  Every marketing expert out there; bloggers and traditional journalists are all screaming how the ‘marketing and PR’ rules have changed.  What a great mini-testament!  Sometimes the reach in numbers isn’t as important as the effectiveness of the quality of the message.  It is further proof of the decline of the effectiveness of old media that used to be if you ask me.
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