skype says “shush” to blogger

In skype says "shush" to blogger by Chris : " We have entered a time that is different than any other period in business. Today, the power of the consumer is unprecedented. No longer can a company push down a message to the world. Today, it is a two-way conversation. One that can lead to building powerful brands and loyal customers.

The recent news about skype intimidating a blogger surprised me. Especially considering the way Skype represents themselves at conferences and in Washington. At the recent VON conference in San Jose, Niklas Zennstrom provided a quite rosy view of the company. Ironically, they are pushing a petition at the FCC to force carriers to open up their networks for any device to access the network or allowing any application to be downloaded on the phone. Although Skype has been clear that they will not allow the same type of open access on their application.

With regard to social media, I think Skype blew it here. It seems that they had an active advocate who both promoted and at times criticized Skype. It didn't matter and the lawyers have put the blogger on notice. Skype should ask Michael Dell about embracing subjective criticism on the internet or Netflix's Reed Hastings about engaging a blogger and turning them into a powerful advocate.

The wireless industry has a great opportunity to join the conversation and learn from consumers. Skype's decision to silence criticism is a big step in the wrong direction."