5 Rules for Social Media Entrants

Buzzwords!

Critics say that social media is a fad, a flash in the pan, that it creates the hot new buzzwords for today.

Social Media is real, it connects people on a global level and businesses are leveraging this new communication form to connect with the consumers, and everyday new blogs and new accounts on social networking sites are being created.

Are they all doing it right? After reading Buzz Networker's most recent article "Ben & Jerry's: Amazing at Ice Cream, Bad at Social Media," the answer would be "no." Buzz Network states that with all the good Ben and Jerry's does in all of its initiatives, it's a shame they do not capitalize on it via social media.

5 Rules
With that in mind, I reviewed all the sites that I personally follow and came up with five aspects they all have in common to be successful in social media.

1.  Choose your networks wisely: By that I mean choose the social sites you think will best fit the market you are trying to attract. Every site has it's demographics, and doing the right research will guide you to the networks you're willing to put your time into.

2.  Be human not a suit: Basically, talk with people in real terms, with real conversations and personalize your marketing. The idea is to bring value to your brand, not be a walking billboard. If people want traditional marketing they can watch TV or listen to the radio, but online people want to connect with people. If you're just a talking head you will find yourself alone in the virtual world.

3.  Interaction: DO NOT follow Ben & Jerry's example of having static posts from your supporters sit on a site. Open up the conversation by having someone responsible for interacting with the community. Exchanging stories, anecdotes, jokes, and firsts with flavors is a great way to keep your brand in the forefront of their minds and even reach out to new customers.

4.  Dedication: This concept will cover two points. First, it is important to have a one or more internal employees dedicated to supporting the community. It's usually someone who can evangelize the brand and create excitement about what his happening with the company and/or product. Secondly, dedication relates to time spent with the community. Don't leave your supporters waiting for days or weeks before they get a response. Make sure you cover as much ground as possible answering messages, emails and posting on other blogs that either criticize or publicize your efforts.

5.  Accountability: No business progresses without its fair share of ups and downs. Some choose to hide their mishaps and others choose to confront them. A successful business looks for solutions not excuses, and this same concept transfers over to the virtual world as well. Dell for example confronts even the worst of bad press situations with its community and does not attempt to sweep it under the rug. This kind of "transparency" creates a level of trust because the situation is in the open and is obviously being worked on.

Final Thought
Every business that looks into any marketing venture should have a PLAN. Give yourself goals for 4 months, 8 months, a year, and watch your brand succeed. A good plan will reap great rewards from the community and all it takes is a little time and respect.

 Photo Credit, annamatic3000
 

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