I observed an interesting conversation on LinkedIn recently regarding the above question, “What’s the point of social media?”
The different perspectives and responses were interesting. Some people engaged in social media understand the ebb and flow, and value it; others clearly believe it’s a complete waste of time.
My answer? Connect and Provide Value.
When I discuss social media with clients and ask questions around their goals and objectives with social media, the most common response is to get more sales and/or customers.
I tell them if that is their end objective, they most likely will not be successful.
Do you want to be sold to? How does it feel when someone approaches you with the intent to get a sale out of you?
Do you enjoy it? Will you seek that person out again, or will you shy away if they approach you?
Now imagine someone connecting with you simply for the purpose of making a connection, or purely to provide value that they themselves found helpful.
How does that make you feel? Do you appreciate that? Will you seek that person out again?
If your intention is to provide value to another person, without any strings attached, they will most likely be appreciative. It is also likely that they will welcome future interactions and connections with you.
Research concludes that once you have five or more positive interactions with a person, a connection is made that brings you into their sphere of influence.
At this point, it’s possible that the question, “What do you do?” has been asked and a natural opportunity to share is created. If that’s not the case, it’s now safe to share this information in light of providing value. Ask people to RT your tweet, if you’re on Twitter.
Even if there’s no response at this point, continue providing value. It won’t go unnoticed. Your circle of connections will grow, and consistency will pay off.
For those that have no interest or time for social media, consider outsourcing. The “real time” search results in search engines are beginning to dominate.
Conversation within a social media context is key if you want front page exposure.
Start the conversation here.
Let me know what you think, what you like and don’t like about social media. If you need information on a particular topic regarding online marketing, let me know below. I’ll feature your question in a future post.
~Kate
