Why does adding the word “media” to the mix make this topic so complex and sticky? Social media is very viral, and each platform is unique. This brings on a learning curve and requires time, resources and management. I recall hearing similar concerns when the Internet went public. Social media is for those who want a more interactive presence online.
When you think about it, one might say that social media networks are simply traditional networking tools, in a new wrapper. I’ve been social networking since my first sales job more than twenty-five years ago. In reality, there is so much more going on in the background that most marketing companies and other do not understand yet where social is concerned. Data that gives organizations a better edge in a number of ways around their brand etc. Social is more than networking, albeit on the surface that is what it appears to be.
Social media is a bi-product of the need to connect and interact with people and brands. A social media strategy is now essential to the success of your marketing plan. Simply having a profile is not enough–it’s how you use social media that makes the difference—whether to develop quality relationships, share information, answer customer queries, and receive valuable data back for clients, stakeholders and product or service improvement. Engagement, analytics and ROI are key to effective networking, no matter which medium you choose.
Where social media groups are larger in size, full-time or part-time moderators are required, for the good of everyone in the group. Our moderators are trained and mentored. They focus on what they do best, which leaves you more time for what you need to do.
Companies expecting to see a return on their investment must include a social media strategy in their business plan, whether for customer service, or for sales lead generation, marketing, to create awareness, employee and supplier communications, training, to share events, or other. To get the most from your investment in social media, you must commit people, time and money for setup, management, maintenance, measurement, and reporting. This can be internal, external, or a blended solution.
This process may include niche groups for: market research, users, suppliers, sales, customer workshops and more. It’s one thing to own many groups, it’s another to manage and maintain them on a day-to-day basis. Like your main message, the purpose of corporate groups must be well defined, professionally moderated, and the membership focused.
To ensure optimum effectiveness, we work with specialists who have a proven track record with social media. Social media is only one component of a company’s overall marketing and media strategy. We can assist you in a number of areas. For further information visit our website or contact info@salesvisionaries.com to schedule a complementary 1-hour consultation with Dean Holmes LIVE!.
Interested in raising the social media bar? We invite you to join the International Association of Evangelists for Social Media (IAESM) group, an international trade association dedicated to best practices and social media for business.
