Social Media is not just about “spreading the word” about your brand. Engagement with consumers in real time is much more important and this is what adds value to your business. Going into Social Media is much like having a “love affair” with your public. They need to feel well when being around your brand. Which are the 5 main rules for establishing “loving and lasting” relationship with your consumers through social media. –
Research and plan
Researching on what your public is interested, and planning your social media campaign around that, is probably “half a battle won”. Research for where your customers go, which websites, forums, social media… and be there! Don’t waste your time on sites where your target audience would never go – like gaming space if you are targeting mums with babies and toddlers (do you think they would have time for games). If you are in the beauty industry, for instance, see if your consumers are interested in things like any potential side effects of your products on the skin, impact on environment and animal testing. If there are any concerns about is, explain your point of view in a friendly conversation. But it is important not to lie! Always…
Be Honest
Telling people the truth (in this case about your company, services or products) is the essential for building your reputation and positive image. People will trust you that way. And what is more important – if you ever make a mistake, they would be more prone to “forgive” you.
Engage
Have something to say? – Then say it in an interesting and engaging way. Don’t just throw random messages in the social media space. Every post in your blog, Tweeter message or LinkedIn discussion should be planned around your social media strategy (yes, you need to have one). Respond to question and comments from people visiting your social media networking sites, commend other posts in competitors’ blogs, re-tweet and share. Use tools and widgets to spread the word as fast and wide as possible like having a “share” button next to your posts, or connecting your tweeter, facebook and LinkedIn accounts, so that your say will reach everyone at once.
Listen, listen, listen
Well, talking and sharing ideas is important, but it is now time to start listening to your public, too. Unhappy customer? – see why, think about the reasons and answer immediately. Show respect and understanding – everyone would appreciate it and would feel flattered by your attention.
Be One Step Ahead of Competitors
Monitoring what competitors do, track your reputation by using online tools or software. Trackur, twitrrart, trendpedia, socialmention, buzzlogic insights, xefer, streamwall, socialminder, blogpulse, or even simple google alerts could be of great help in that. See what the trends are, what consumers in your industry are interested in, and what competitors are already doing, and be “one step ahead”. Provide more information, interact, proved an extra attention. This “extra” effort might do the job and make you the winner.
Sounds much like being in a relationship, doesn’t it?