Social media has become a dominating communication method among individuals and businesses. Individuals have embraced social networks (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, YouTube) because they allow for easy connections and play to some individuals’ desire to share the details of their lives.
Businesses have embraced social networks because there are billions of potential customers active in social media circles. Platforms, like the ones named above, allow companies to build mindshare and thought-leadership among targeted audiences. They can be used as powerful recruiting tools and teaching outlets, to develop business leads, to stay connected with important customers and contacts, and to introduce new relationships. KGBTexas is active in these spheres and spends time researching the latest developments to keep our clients up to speed on how these tools can best be used.
Facebook is the most popular social media platform in the Western world with more than 600 million users. Companies use Facebook to reach constituents who prefer to spend their online time on this site. This is the opportunity for organizations to engage in dialogue with customers. KGBTexas helps clients draft a proper strategy and tactics for connecting with their audiences through this medium.
Twitter is a microblogging service. People share links, photos, videos and experiences with no more than 140 characters used. It is a way for instant communication to occur that has been embraced by millions. Others, however, have called it “pointless babble.” KGBTexas is active in Twitter to have the experience so we can offer valuable insight into the service’s proper use. It is not for everyone and should not be done “because everyone else is doing it.”
Blogging
Blogs are ways for companies to more directly connect with clients and employees. They allow organizations to position themselves as experts within industries. Blogs typically express a particular point of view, which differs from a standard website. Blogs should be written by someone who is passionate about the company and its services. KGBTexas has a blog, Communi-K, that allows us to share information about ourself, our industry and our clients. We blog on behalf of clients and offer training so clients can blog for themselves.
Foursquare
Foursquare, and its competitor Gowalla, are locational social services. People “check in” to locations and then broadcast their locations to friends via various social networks. There is great utility for retailers who are offering special promotions. Following people on these services can allow businesses in the area to target messaging to those who are active with their checkins.
YouTube
Is an outstanding service for capturing testimonials and offering training to far-flung employees. Channels can be customized to reflect a company’s look, or to allow viewing by solely an internal or external audience. A YouTube channel allows discussions about issues, preservation of important speeches and announcements, and tutorials on product use. It can also be used as a training tool where scenarios can be played out and different responses demonstrated. It can also be a venue where customers and clients can brag about you.
This is the premier business social media site. It started as a resume site and evolved into a valuable lead-generation tool. Users also post questions and responses, work collectively on documents, share presentations, or track contacts for sales leads. The ability for anyone to post on LinkedIn makes it important that companies monitor how they are listed on the site by their employees, both past and present.
Summation
All the services listed above can be tied to each other and allow for content to be shared among each. KGBTexas can help you determine what medium is best for your organization and the goals you are trying to achieve. We can also help you tie the different media together to gain the greatest reach and boost your organization’s social presence.
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