I spent the first half of today listening to some of NZ's top social media gurus talk about social media. Titled Nerd or Guru?, the session was pitched as the opportunity to learn about social media. I know lots about social media but running my own company, it's good to get out and hear what others (often my competitors) have to say.
Interestingly, none of the speakers (who were very interesting) were social media experts per se - rather they were agency guys who really understood social media and really understood how to make it work for their clients.
Some of the usual key points emerged, which from the Question and Answer session were obviously top-of-mind for some attendees:
- You can't control social media content...but you have to remember that conversations about your company/product/brand will be happening anyway. Best to be involved and aware.
- Social media has to happen as part of the company or organisation's wider strategic planning. A social media strategy should be tied to your broader strategic business objectives.
- Stories are key when engaging with your audience. Capture them (or enable your audience to) and share them with other customers and clients.
- Every negative posting is an opportunity to improve your company's products or services.
- Be honest about who you are when posting on online networks. Are you the actual company or are you working on behalf of the company?
- Give it a go and have fun. It's an inexpensive way of connecting with your customers.
