Social Media has become an essential part of the marketing mix. It gives you direct contact with potential and existing customers and has grown to the point that it effects your Google Search Engine Rankings. There is no longer any doubt that Social Media is a powerful tool, but be careful because it can also become a fire breathing beast.
What Social Media is composed of is not the amazing programming or the miracle of the internet, all though this is a part of it. What Social Media is at its core, is living breathing individuals sitting behind computers such as yourself. This makes Social Media behave as an organic entity demonstrating emotional and at times illogical reactions (or should I say over reactions). Upset this core, and you will see the beast I refer to.
Many businesses do not look at Social Media as it is, but rather as another venue to sell their products or services. It is exactly this thinking that turns Social Media into a beast. It seems that the anonymity enjoyed from behind the computer screen has lowered the tendency towards civility. This is especially true if scorned or perceived to be wronged. Best case scenario once this beast turns is that you will loose your audience. Worst case scenario is you will be “flamed” – hence the fire breathing beast analogy.
“Flaming” – to put it in it’s simplest form – refers to hurtful or derogatory statements or insults aimed at either business, product or an individual. These posts or comments become more personal in nature until they derive from the original comment. As an example, what might start off as “I am unhappy with your product because it broke shortly after I purchased it. I would like to exchange it.” can quickly turn into “Your business sucks and your products are made in sweat shops in a technologically challenged third world country. I hope you go bankrupt.” This example may sound extreme, but it is actually quite tame compared to some true posts.
There is an online culture with its own set of manners that when ignored can really damage your Social Media Marketing efforts. Over several posts we will address the three most important “manners” to follow when you engaging in Social Media Marketing. These three topics are:
1 – Do not “always be selling”.
2 – Always be straight forward and NEVER lie.
3 – Do not interrupt a conversation
This list is in no way comprehensive but by following these rules you should avoid any unpleasant circumstances. Do you have any questions regarding Social Media Marketing? Post them below or visit our website at http://www.beloudonline.com and contact us. We look forward to hearing from you.
