Final answer:
Engaging in unexpected and innovative social media tactics is important for standing out to key decision-makers, raising funds and awareness, and fostering social change. The Obama campaign's success in utilizing social media is a prime example of the effectiveness of this strategy. However, one must consider the potential disadvantages of candidates primarily shaping their public image through selective online appearances.
Step-by-step explanation:
Doing something completely unexpected in a social media campaign can catch the eye of key decision-makers, which is crucial for a job search campaign or political campaign. This approach can set you apart and generate buzz, making you memorable to employers or voters. For instance, flash mobs or social media challenges might not always go as planned, but they create engagement and communal experiences. Additionally, as the Obama campaign showcased, utilizing social media can lead to significant fundraising and mobilizing efforts, underscoring the profound impact of an innovative online strategy.
Engaging in unexpected tactics also taps into the potential of social media to foster social change. Whether it's through hashtag activism or mobilizing people for political rallies, a surprising and clever use of social media can galvanize a movement and amplify its message exponentially. However, it's also worth considering the potential downsides, such as bypassing traditional media and possibly leading to a lack of in-depth scrutiny of political figures like Sarah Palin, who cultivated her image through selective media appearances.