At a recent consultation with one of our clients, I was discussing the benefits of establishing a social media presence. The resistance to social media was apparent from the beginning. I don’t know if it was the generational gap or fear of the unknown, but the immediate, negative response was very interesting. I asked what the true concerns were, and I got the normal responses like it’s too time consuming, I don’t have anything to say on Facebook, what if people say negative things about us. But then, I got one I wasn’t expecting, we are more of a “word of mouth” type business. Huh, word of mouth type business…. What does that really mean today?
After fighting off my initial urge to spew all the positive things about this marketing tool, it dawned on me, Social Media IS the new word of mouth. How many of us with Facebook or Twitter accounts checked out a business simply because we saw that a friend “liked” or “followed” it? How often have we seen a post about someone’s new shoes, furniture, car, etc. and asked where they got it? I do on a regular basis, and I have eventually made purchases from several of those businesses. A “like” is akin to an endorsement from a friend. Social Media really is the new word of mouth; it is just uses technology!
With 25% of ALL online activity being spent on social media sites, your business cannot afford to miss out on this key and ever growing marketing segment. Don’t let your lack of knowledge scare you into thinking that social media isn’t right for you. Educate yourself and find out how you can incorporate social media into your overall marketing strategy.
Our next social media overview training will be held on May 22nd at 10:00am. Please email social@amediamarketing.com for more details.
Written by Leslie Laney, Marketing & Social Media Director @ A Media Marketing
