I frequently tell people that social media is not a cookie-cutter operation, but it doesn't always resonate without context.
Generally, each business and industry might consider any number of qualities — the strategic objectives of the company, intended publics, corporate culture, and available resources, among other things — to determine the best approach for their business. While this sometimes means the answer to the question "how should my company engage in social media?" becomes "it depends," it's the most genuine. Consider some upcoming speaking engagements:
IABC Las Vegas Chapter - Twitter For Business, Nov. 6
On Thursday, Nov. 6, the International Association of Business Communicators is hosting a webinar on applying Twitter for Business: The Power of Micro-blogging with Aaron Uhrmacher from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (check the link for other time zones). Immediately following the webinar, I'll provide some human touch for IABC Las Vegas with a short question and answer session. The local chapter tie-in will be held at Imagine Marketing in Las Vegas. The event is open.
U.S. Small Business Administration SCORE - A Social Media Overview, Nov. 11
On Tuesday, Nov. 11 (Veteran's Day), I will be presenting a 20-30 minute overview of social media for the Southern Nevada Chapter of SCORE, which is made up of experienced counselors who provide free business counseling to small business owners who are either just starting out or are already in business. SCORE is a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration. You can learn more about SCORE here. The meeting is closed (for counselors only).
G2E 2008, Social Networking: Implications for Casinos, Nov. 19
On Thursday, Nov. 19, I will be joining a panel featuring eCommerce/Digital Marketing consultant Joe Wall, JJWall Associates and Michael Corfman, president and CEO of Casino City for a session that aims to explain how gaming can "combine social media and viral marketing without losing control." The session will cover how to best utilize blogs, podcasts, and social networks. The session will be moderated by Craig Border, senior account executive for Marketing Results, Inc. (MRI). G2E is the largest gaming expo in the world. The expo is open.
Leadership Las Vegas - Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce, Dec. 12
On Friday, Dec. 12, I will be joining a point-counterpoint panel discussion on Politics and Media: Sculpting Public Opinion for Leadership Las Vegas, which is an intensive, 10-month program devoted to strengthening and educating our community leaders. Leadership Las Vegas provides in-depth insights into a variety of issues impacting residents of Southern Nevada. This is the first time that a panel member will represent social media. Other panelists include: Bruce Spotleson, group publisher for Greenspun Media Group; Flo Rogers, general manager of KNPR Nevada Public Radio; and another member of the media, to be determined, representing television. The panel discussion will be closed (for program participants only).
Is there any possible way to present the same social media information to address varied topics for varied groups and truly provide them a baseline for things to come in their industry? I don't think it's possible. While I can define for them what the "conversation" means, I cannot rely on that as an independent theoretical message and have them leave with confidence.
Instead, much like we all tell early entrants in social media, we have to listen to the audience and adapt our message. In other words, the general idea that is preached — it's always better to pull a chain than to push one — applies to teaching social media as much as it does the application of social media.
4 comments:
I tend to take a less thoughtful, more pragmatic approach to Social Media for my clients.
My view of "it depends" is simply that you don't need to bother with YouTube if you have no interest in producing videos. However, in that same vein, I haven't found a client yet that couldn't produce at least some one minute videos.
Consider creating either a quick tour of a facility, or a tour of their web site or at least a PowerPoint sales presentation converted into a Flash video with camtasia Studio.
I also create a page for my clients on at least twenty different Social Media or Social Networking sites to at least get them some valuable, one way back-links.
I recommend everyone do this (it can be done in a day) for that reason alone. It's great for search engine placement.
Hey Bob,
I appreciate the more pragmatic approaches to Social Media; and yes, understanding the client as much as possible is the key to developing a solid communication plan, which might include Social Media, which might include YouTube, assuming their public is there.
Personally, I have mixed feelings on spreading across too many social networks unless the client or consultant is prepared to keep them active and engaging, but understand the reasoning behind it.
Thanks so much for sharing your perspective; it does add value to the post.
Best,
Rich
Glad you will ll be participating in my Twitter webinar later this week.
The audience is an important element of any social media communications plan, whether it's teaching or participating. I think this will be well suited for the IABC crowd.
I'll be looking forward to some thoughtful questions coming out of Vegas!
Aaron,
Thank you. I'm looking forward to it.
I anticipate some deep questions after the webinar is over too. Don't be surprised if you receive a phone call after the session. :)
Best,
Rich
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