I’ve been thinking a lot about the audience recently.

When I mention ‘audience‘ in posts or presentations I’ve received subtle push back.  Perhaps it’s the word.  Docs aren’t supposed to create for a gallery of listeners.  We’re not showmen.  And for the better part of history, we were trained to sit in the crowd and watch.  But the moment you share a link or post a picture, you’re the speaker.  It’s a new role for many of us.

I remember back when I began blogging there was that moment when I realized someone was listening.  It was inspiring but uncomfortable.  So I understand completely.

But public writing has a real upside. When we know someone’s looking we watch our p’s and q’s. This is the audience effect.

And it used to be that those who listened to us were only relevant when they were massive.  Most of us still think in these mass media terms.  But the right audience of just a few can change the world.  And it doesn’t have to me more than a dozen.

So unless you live under a rock you’ve got people listening. Who’s your muse?