Working for a large trade organization, I am challenged by the typical mix of technology early-adopters, agnostics, and, of course, those who just don’t understand what the big deal is when it comes to Social Media – so they would rather not. Trying to explain why this is important critical is often difficult and frustrating – at best. Nine times out of ten, I walk away trying to remember why I am in this line of work in the first place.
So I came up with the ‘elevator speech’ version of why adopting a social media approach is so important for any organization:
- Gives you a voice, makes you personal & approachable
Blogs and other social networks have a different tone, they are informal yet informative. Inspired, passionate blog posts and conversations allow your audience to connect with you on a whole new level. - Increases understanding through conversation
The old school of communications was a one-way street. No matter how good your content, messages, and imagery, its ability to really impact the level of understanding is minimal compared to the world of social media. Because messages and content are being discussed, or used in a context that makes sense to the audience, it immediately increases understanding. It’s all about messages within the ‘human context’. - Increases Discoverability – so people can find you and learn about the good works that you do
There is a ton of data behind this – the fact is, if you adopt a social media approach, Google (and other search engines) will love you. And there is no love like Google love. - Broadens your reach
Having a presence on existing social networking sites works for you while you are sleeping. Using sites like LinkedIn, Facebook, Flickr, YouTube, and Delicious gives you a exposes you to communities that you would have never found otherwise. - If you don’t participate in existing online conversations and activities, they will happen without you
The world of social media is crazy and out of control – and makes many organizations feel uncomfortable. All the more reason to pick a few insightful networks, blogs, and sites and join in. Do this–and start a few of your own–then earn the respect of your existing audience as well as develop new relationships along the way. Don’t get left out.
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