It's an absolute 'bunfight' out there in Social Media world right now.....
There seems to be a majority who understand the concept of it yet the 'contexts' that create the 'purpose' for usage seem to be the missing key to the door.
The majority know what to 'do with it' and those that are 'doing it', are not all doing it 'the same'. This is leading to conflicting messages as to 'what to do with it' and this causes uncertainty within communities who are looking to use it to develop a brand on either a business or personal level.
What first needs to be asked is 'what is twitter, LinkedIn et al?'
These amazing tools are so multifaceted that it is becoming a challenge on how best to use them to get your chosen result. We're dealing with a revolution that is in its infancy and defining the boundaries or 'contexts' in which this platform works are yet to be formed, tested and available to users.
What do I mean by the above? The functionality of the platforms, as either direct communication or one way broadcasting capability means that whatever your 'intention' for platform use (chat, advertising, one way dialogue, information sharing etc) then there is 'space' for that approach. Yes! That approach will attract a particular audience and it will be an audience that has, of its own accord, decided to be there, automated or otherwise.
Let's look at LinkedIn as an example. It's a message broadcasting tool, information sharing tool, phone book, prospect list, labour pool, supplier list and depending on how a person decides to use the tools defines the 'intention' behind tool usage. That same situation applies to businesses and how they use the tools to get what they want.
So. SM gurus, trainers and wannabes - stop telling me what I should do with my 'social media' because you may be unsure what my 'intention' is on the platforms, whether I am happy with my results and at the end of the day there is enough 'space' to do what I want with it!
Wednesday 9 June 2010
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If you are not interested in what to do with your social media stop attending workshops about social media. The strategic implementation of a communications campaign is different for every client and ever brand. To make a presentation soley around your needs would be completely pointless. I thought you would have thought that anyway.
ReplyDeleteJust because you understand some of it, doesn't mean everyone else does - you need to remember that!
This post is so true Nick (and this comes from someone who offers social media workshops from time to time). The way I approach delivering these things isn't as an expert or guru, but someone who has studied their use for my own business and simply wants to pass on my knowledge and experience. I'm proud to say that I am still learning myself and pick up more tips and techniques from 'non-gurus' than I do from the so called experts that I come across. You're right it really is a 'bunfight' out there with many conflicting messages.
ReplyDeleteReminds me of when i was at Orange
ReplyDeleteThey created loads of really fancy mobiles
But after a while realised a large proportion of the population simply wanted a device that er made phone calls and nothing else
We also launched WAP - and called it that. All the techys got excited but it went over the heads of the general public. For WAP - read Twitter?
BTW Nick good blog posts get lots of comments so well done with his one and good promotion on Twitter.
Thanks Nick for your insight and honesty.
ReplyDeleteI agree with the spirit and sentiment.
Can I please ask;
Would you like to talk to me about your Social media needs in direct relation to your context and desired outcomes?
How does that sound...OH by the way.
My typing voice went down at the end of the sentence...remember what you taught me...LOL.
Cheers
David Trees
Profile Builder - Manchester
Thanks for the comments to date.
ReplyDeleteChris - my point is that there are many out there who have recently entered into SM, call themselves 'experts' yet the experts don't all agree on tool usage.
Jaimie - agree completely, the landscape is strewn with mixed dialogue causing confusion. Surely a uniform approach to 'benefits, strategy and return' would create clarity.
Martin - is the future of SM bright :-)
David - lucky I know you!! lol
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteNick
ReplyDeleteI would agree with Jaimie, I am not an expert or guru. Consultant though due to consulting with clients about the skills and experiences I have in this field [rather just be known as a user, who's possibly overdosing], which doesn't mean I am any better than the next person.
And always learning for the benefit of the people I come into contact with and to always remember to learn from them too wherever possible.
It's part of the fabric of society, and used in such a way now that instigates communication and sharing online and face to face. Neither more valid than the other. Which tools to use all depends on who, what and where you are looking to connect with.
Is the future bright? It's as dull or bright as you want it to be, best place for social media arguments are Linked In, do like how people use it as a vehicle to denounce the medium.
Best way to move forward be flexible, when one platform rises above the rest use it, if it benefits the connections you are making.
After all, its basic communication and nothing more, maybe little more advanced than previously but effectively used can add benefit to either a business or life style.
It’s never going to be a one size fits all a fad or trend either. I have been social networking since 1983 from being monitored by the KGB to meeting and developing long lasting relationships. It’s possible for connections to lead anywhere and rather than being cynical and standoffish I would jump in and take the risk. By developing and planning positive strategies that deliver value for friends, followers and fans.
No doubt what the leading business people have always done rather than pick at the bones till its safe for all.
Maybe naive but smiling...
Mark Longbottom
design58