What is Social Media?

Social media, the name itself incites different responses from different people. There are the youth that have been around Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, SnapChat from the time they pounded on their parents keyboard, or snapped their first selfie with their very own phone. They have a full understanding of the power of social. What impact social media has, and what they like and don’t like. For these kids it is like television and video games are to us.

Then there are the grey hairs. Those of us who have embraced technology. Many times so bleeding edge that we don’t even feel the pain the tech is causing us. We just revel in the experience and love to figure out what it is about this new thing will do, what can it be used for. We prioritize each site in a way the younger kids don’t. Facebook is, for many, the site where we keep track of our lifelong friends and family members. Twitter is for talking to people with similar ideas. Then Snapchat is an app you worry about when you see it on your daughters phone.

All of these are social in one way, you communicate with people. Social networks are not a “passing thing” as I have heard one gentleman express when talking to him about his social media strategy.

Social networks and social media both go hand in hand with each other, but each one has its advantages and disadvantages. Depending on the message you want to covey. Just don’t want to sell, sell, sell all the time on any medium. Nobody likes an ad network.

So what is Social Media?

For me the key word is Social. Yeah, that is as much of a buzzword as social media. Yet, many internet marketers think they have to use some “formula” to get sales. I am sure there are key points that work for them. But buying followers isn’t a strategy. The Beatles song “Can’t buy me Love” comes to mind. Not a good idea to have a whole lot more followers or Friends or whatever the term maybe suddenly appear out of the blue. Doing this is why people say that the size of your network is a vanity stat. When used correctly it is a great barometer of who your followers are. When used incorrect it will not provide any value to anybody.

So be social, be real and your followers and fans and customers will follow you. They will be interested in what your opinions and views are. You can track your customers in much more intimate ways. When you do social media correctly. You will have people who are willing to walk through a desert for your glass of water. As long as you have a good and strong relationship with them. People will love to follow you.

Be Human

Your company has a face. That face is you, and I am very sure you are human. People want to know who you are, and what the culture of your company is like. You can show them all the great reasons to follow your company by showing people that your company has people in it. Each of those people in your company has their own stories that build on the personality of your company so don’t be too stiff and formal. Show your fans that you know how to unbutton that top button loosen the tie and be goofy.

Social Media is important to your company. Social media is what your customers are using to find you. They may have a problem or a complement don’t hide from either one embrace them and make them your own. Your customers are wanting that relationship with you.

About
Latest Posts

I am here!

Bryan Goodwin

Social Media Manager at Goodwin Social Media

Bryan has been in the social media field in one form or another. whether it is blogging, podcasting, or trying out the latest social network . There is a good chance that you will find him talking somewhere.