Social Media – Trick or Treat?

Social media is forever changing the way we live, work, think and play. If you are asking what is meant by social media, you are likely amongst the majority of users who are unaware that marketers have labeled it. As stated by bigmouthmedia, “social media incorporates the online technology and methods through which people can share content, personal opinions, swap different perspectives and insights into world issues and generally discuss the evolution of media in itself.” Though not a bad summarization, it’s so much more. The Trick – consumers question if this is just another ploy by businesses and marketers to intrude on their personal lives. The Treat – consumers create relationships with businesses, consequently becoming influential partners in their products and services. I beg to agree with the latter. The central difference between social and traditional media is that you are able to engage in social media, even while monitoring it. The sweet social media haul: the touchback to consumers detects issues, evaluates campaign impacts, increases website traffic, improves crisis management, evaluates competitors, expands brand awareness, increases consumer loyalty, becomes influential, and discovers points of need.

Bet you are wondering what sparked this blog? Through my previous and current internships, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of social media – not just for business, but consumers, essentially EVERYONE! This past week I attend a Digital Influence Training for my internship at Ogilvy PR Brussels. Their strategies were simple, yet effective. “Listen, Plan, and Engage.” it’s not just about the businesses. Too many people hear “social media” and shy away. Again, everyone is able to participate through a multitude of avenues. RSS Feeds, sharing widgets, blogs (Yay, I’m one step ahead!), Facebook, Twitter, Social Media releases, fluidbooks, Flickr, Netvibes, YouTube, WikiAnswers, virtual worlds, etc. are all a part of this growing ambiance. “Social media has turned the monologue of advertising and PR into a dialogue between consumers and businesses.” I think this was the most important aspect of the seminar – create ongoing conversations and relationships between businesses and consumers. This new platform, whether you like it or not, is here to stay and will further evolve. As you all know, I love Public Relations and branding management, but the social media venues is about being able to help the consumer. I advice us all to join in! Don’t be scared.

And let me be the first to wish you an early Happy Halloween, as this insight will be what I hand out this year! Trick or Treat!