Self-described CEO, entrepreneur, and adventurist Peter Shankman has a message for those struggling to understand "social media" and its place in today's business environment: adjust the way you think.
For companies looking to positively impact the bottom line (that hasn't changed), it's more than considering both newspaper advertising and YouTube (www.youtube.com) postings. It is a fundamental change in how society is viewed, understanding that it isn't "web 2.0" but life itself.
In 2008, the evolution of the species means that many people have cameras in their phones (and aren't shy about using them), post daily blog entries, twitter (www.twitter.com) even the most mundane details of their day, and constantly network with others they may never have met, but who share common interests. That can be the good or bad news for a company.
More from Shankman (www.shankman.com) on how to navigate this brave new world:
- Be adaptable.
- Social media puts people in control and citizen journalists can be as powerful, and in some cases more so, than traditional media outlets.
- Social networking should take place all the time, not just in structured situations where business cards are exchanged.
- Engage and be part of the audience you seek to reach. When credibility is critical (in a crisis, for example), it's too late to join the party.
- Reputation and transparency have never been more important, since trust is the lifeline. There are no "do-overs" in the cyber world.
- Facebook (www.facebook.com) isn't just for college kids. Get connected.
For more ideas that drive sales check out archives or visit Ambit Advertising and Public Relations.
Comments