Social media took a wild ride last year as businesses and organization began accepting it as a serious business tool.
Tonight, I am speaking to a group of business students at Howard University who are dedicated users of web 2.0 but are looking to be the next ‘gatejumper’ in the world wide web. I plan to talk about Reputation Management online AND the human aspect of becoming a web aficionado. The first point will detail ways you can build online influence using the internet.
“The Internet has leveled the playing field for media, merchandise, communication, location and many other areas.” – Trust Agents
My second point will talk about how involvement in social media will inevitably lead to the risk of “one-way intimacy”- when you are simply pushing your message out to an audience. The important point here is that brands earn our attention through personal intimacy, we must maintain that human touch. We all recognize that companies need to change and begin participating- your job is to find out how to make twitter valuable for your employer or for your own business.
Here is the secret, tie in social media to the overall business goals, not just web-related goals. Track leads and sales from social networking to understands the true impact.
Listen Listen Listen
Lastly and most importantly, don’t focus so much on you and your message. Figure out how you can help FIRST then speak up.
Website Resources:
Mixergy – Online Business Tips from Successful Entrepreneurs
FastCompany.com – Where ideas and people meet | Fast Company
Books:
Here’s a book I read recently and one that should be in any entrepreneurs bookcase:
Trust Agents: Using the Web to Build Influence, Improve Reputation, and Earn Trust
Good points, Mike. Maybe I’m bias because I work in social media, but as a consumer, I definitely have a more favorable view of businesses that have that human touch by directly corresponding with customers on Twitter. But, social media’s reach has grown beyond conversations and will have an impact on SEO, and as you mentioned, should be integrated with overall business goals!
I agree – Many companies are reshaping their image with consumers by using social media tools as an avenue for customer service. Look at all the usual case studies on Dell, Comcast, South West Airlines etc…these business have maintained high-impact, quality relationships via social media- thus creating a favorable view of their organizations.