Web 2.0 Social Networking for Business Info
Wikipedia: "Web 2.0" is commonly associated with web development and web design that
facilitates interactive information sharing, interoperability, user-centered design and
collaboration on the World Wide Web. A Web 2.0 website allows its users to interact with other
users or to change website content, in contrast to non-interactive websites where users are
limited to the passive viewing of information that is provided to them.
What does this mean for your business? It means that you need to facilitate and participate in the online
discussions about your company and products as well as being sensitive to the social mores of representing
your trademark in open-ended discussions. Be honest about how you intend to approach social networking; for
advertising, promotion and/or existing customer support.
Rule #1: Your online presence needs to be an open, honest reflection of your company.
Rule #2: Keep it fresh. Provide up-to-date information and commentary.
Social Media Examples
Facebook – Create a personality just for your business. Use it to connect with customers, employees, etc.
Post updates on your new offerings, reflections on your business and customer success stories. Don't forget to
create "fan pages" for your business and for any major products or services you provide.
Twitter – For quick, time sensitive communications about your business. Share follow status with any of your
business partners, clients, employees, etc. Just keep it professional.
LinkedIn – For a business to business approach that lets you reach out to your business contacts and their
contacts, giving you a much larger network of contacts that you can leverage using a trusted middleman.
Create a company profile and invite your professional contacts to link to you.
Slideshare – If you provide business services and have presentations that you have prepared, anonymize
them and post them here. Benefit: Being seen as an expert in your field.
Forums and online communities – Reach out in a professional capacity to provide assistance and expertise
to the groups that consume your services. Use your "signature" blocks to link people back to your business.
Your website – Allow comments, reviews, ratings. Run surveys. Link to your profiles on other sites.
Pitfalls
To a certain degree your "social net worth" is defined by how many friends or fans you have. But pick carefully,
unless you are running a frat house. Don't be afraid to "unfriend" someone.
Avoid "marketing speak" at all costs. Web 2.0 is people in a living room, not looking at a billboard.
Natural Growth -v- Forced Growth
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Chris Chubb, President
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