The Real Value of Social Media

Posted on January 11, 2009 written by Mark

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What is all this social media stuff about anyway? I’m just trying to run my business why would I care?

Social media is all about creating and growing relationships. The more clearly you understand this and implement this understanding into your insights the better you can grow your relationships with your customers.

Social Media value from a personal point of view:

helps people connect better
exchange ideas, opinions and information
helps people find each other and stay connected

Social media value from a business point of view:

re-humanize relations between companies and the public
become part of the community
listen to the conversations your customers are having
better understanding of customers
better understanding brings anticipation of wants and needs
better information
better and faster service
friendlier connection points
increased customer satisfaction
higher level of trust
interact with customers on a deeper level
build lasting relationships
build a stronger sense of loyalty

The Central Focus

At the center of social media are communications tools that help us connect with each other. As a small business person the sooner you realize this the sooner you can use these tools to leverage your communication and build meaningful relationships with your customers. With more understanding comes more effective communication which leads to more insightful marketing and more value for your investment.

Big Opportunities

Social media is more than creating your community. Think of the opportunity to connect with your customers and join them in their spheres. With the ability of social media to connect with your customers think about what can happen to your business.

exciting interactions spread
exponential word of mouth
create evangelists for your business
people go out of there way to promote you
your customers literally become fans

Your greatest value and goal with social media is to create a real base of fans that love you and support what you do for everyone’s mutual benefit.