This is social technology in plain English, either you get it or you don't.
- It ain't about you...if people want to know the ins and outs of your products and services, they will go to your website. Social platforms are opportunities to talk to current and potential customers about your industry, the behind-the-scenes of your enterprise, offer deals/specials/coupons, hear from experts and generally have conversations with people.
- With that being said, nothing can replace a website...Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, etc. can't do what a website can do for you. An old fashioned website is still the best way to get the breadth and depth of your organization's mission, goals, products and services to your audience.
- Focus on the content, conversation and engagement, not on the platforms...Vox, Rejaw, Pownce have come and gone; MySpace, Friendfeed, Plurk are barely breathing; while Facebook and Twitter are today's powerhouses. Posting information to the top networks is important; however, it is not nearly as important as what your posting.
- Do it right or don't do it...it is better to not have a Facebook page than to have an out-of-date, inaccurate one. Social technology is 24/7, it never sleeps, you have to tend to it like a garden, watering it everyday, at minimum every business day.
- Getting followers, fans and friends is easier than keeping them...a gimick may have gotten some people's attention, but keeping their attention will take time and effort. Relevant written, visual or audible content is crucial to keeping your audience's eyes focused on your organization.
- Be a big fish in a small pond, not a small figh in the ocean...Facebook is the ocean. Take some time to investigate the numerous niche social platforms -- cars/auto, cooking/food, culture, family, music, etc. Be a whale!
- If you wouldn't let an intern manage your direct mail campaigns, then don't let an intern manage your social technology campaigns...this speaks for itself.
What are some other social tech straight talk nuggets of knowledge?
Additional resources:
Community Building Breakthroughs: 4 Ways to Listen (and Understand)
The Art of Conversation -- It's About Listening Not Marketing
Creating Strategic Value: Examples of Branded Utility
