Short-Hand and Signals

I read an article this week on The Value of Dynamic Signals. The author discussed signals, technology, and context — and what that brings to improved productivity.

My thoughts went immediately to signals used among members of a community — a tribe, if you prefer.

There’s a private, short-hand language used between spouses. “I don’t eat no crust, Mama,” and “Josh, Don, Billy-Bob” have meaning to me and my husband. I doubt either quote creates a sense of community among anyone else I know.

If I mention cowboys and horses on Twitter, a broader community might be engaged; especially if I were tweeting at 4:00am. Danger Bay, mojitos, and Whuffie are signals used in wider circles. Not a single one of those terms have any meaning among my girlfriends here in Atlanta.

The signal above might mean something to Lane Bailey and Bobby Carroll. I know it represents a sense of community as I’m driving around town.

What are some of the signals you use to say, “I belong.” Share them in the comments and we’ll expand our community. Gotta close, “It’ almost midnight.“