TSA is not typically known as an organization that would win any awards. Please don’t get me wrong, I think there are some extremely friendly and nice TSA employees out there. But overall, they are there to keep us safe and protected. And as such, they sometimes have to make some hard decisions. Which is why it’s such a surprise that the TSA has won a Webby Award for their social media marketing. Yes, the same agency that takes your water bottle at the airport, just wone three social content marketing Webby Awards for their Instagram feed. You read that correctly, friends.
For those of you who aren’t aware, a Webby Award is: an award for excellence on the Internet presented annually by The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, a judging body composed of over two thousands industry experts and technology innovators. Categories include websites; advertising and media; online film and video; mobile sites and apps; and social. Two winners are selected in each category, one by members of The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences, and one by the public who cast their votes during Webby People’s Voice voting. Each winner presents a five-word acceptance speech. This has become a trademark of the annual awards show, and the awards have become known as “The Oscars of the Internet”.
Which means, this is a really big deal. So why is the TSA getting the honor? It’s ironic if you think about it. As I said, TSA agents aren’t always known for being funny. But one look at their Instagram feed explains exactly why they won. It’s a bit thirsty though. I mean, any Instagram account with lots of dogs in it, is sure to get some looks. And that’s what the TSA does best. They have taken a ton of pictures of the cute, yet somewhat scary sniffer dogs. On top of that though, they have images on there of some of the best way that people have tried to smuggle drugs and some of the weirdest weapons.
I think this whole thing is kind of strange, don’t you? I mean, they’re a government agency whose job is to prevent any kind of unsafe thing from happening on a plane. And yet, they’re winning a Webby? Not only that, but they’re a government agency. I feel like this isn’t appropriate, in some ways. I’m not saying that they can’t do it, but how much information should the public have about these kinds of things? Does it give people ideas on what they can do to be even more creative?
I guess my concern with this is that they’re showing off things that are breaking the rules, and in some cases, even the law. Sure, there is something to be said about making an example out of someone, but at the same time, it doesn’t feel right. Or is it just me? I think the idea of the dogs is cute, and adorable and is sure to melt your heart, but this is not a normal TSA type social media account. I mean, look at their Facebook or Twitter accounts and you’ll understand what I’m saying. Like I said, it feels a bit thirsty and a bit uncomfortable to me.