Social Movements for Good: How Companies and Causes Create Viral Change

Chapter 8The Creative Behind a Social Movement for Good

I was visiting New York City for a conference to talk about the latest research we had just released. I was scheduled to go on stage around 2:00. I arrived a little early and had the chance to walk around, check out the latest exhibits, and get the vibe of the conference. This is something I like to do even before checking in. Doing this helps me understand what I may be dealing with that day.

As I was going through the area, I noticed a couple of tables off to the side. Three people were camped out next to some outlets trying to get any little bit of electricity they could to charge their gadgets. I was in need of some, too. But, of course, there were limited amounts of actual outlets.

As I was doing the walk by, a conference attendee could tell I was really in need of some charging. I was trying to look in and around the floor to find anything at this point. The attendee gave me a sign and waved me over. I came over and she said, “Do you need to charge? I can charge my phone in my laptop. It just means we have to share an outlet—if you don't mind that I sit next to you.” So I did just that and nestled up to the wall and outlet close enough to her that I could see what she was doing.

She was watching some video. I couldn't really tell what it was and I was really focused on looking over a few things before I made my presentation. She participated in some small talk before I got settled, but was fairly intent on watching ...