How to be anti-social in social media

Like many, I am SO loving social media right now. In fact, I've even created a new term, calling myself a Socialmediarite! ;) With 20 years marketing and sales support, I've always loved the creativity of the industry however I never cared for the manipulation, with marketers and advertisers dictating the when & why of what consumers want. Now, thankfully, the tables have turned and there's been an important shift of power back to the people - where it always belonged.

Below is an awesome presentation about the importance of social media, albeit not pc for those sensitive to the f-word, but do not let that detract from the real message: social media is a powerful force that is changing and improving our world on many levels, and is here to stay.

It's such a welcome breath of fresh air and yet a lot of businesses and companies just don't get it, and are even fearful of the change. What's not to get? If you're prepared to really listen, learn, share and engage the opportunities are endless with the potential to provide the ultimate customer service, something sadly lacking in today's world. Either embrace it or get left behind – simple.

There is just so much information online on what do to when it comes to using social media, so I thought I'd address some equally important basic points of what not to do:

• Don't join the social media bandwagon just because it's trendy. You'll only wind up wasting your time if you don't believe in it or don't commit properly, so educate yourself before diving in

• Forget about using social media as another way to broadcast your "message“. Fact is, nobody cares and you'll only end up being popular with Me, Myself and I
  

• Everybody can easily spot a wannabe or player, so don't carefully construct what you think is an compelling personality for the sole purpose of attracting your "target market“. It will only backfire

• Nobody likes a schmoozer, so if it's not sincere don't waste your time as you'll only embarrass yourself

• Many delude themselves thinking their "brand“ will impress the masses, but that's just superficial packaging. The person behind the brand is always in front
  

• What worked for you and your business 5 or 10 years ago is now irrelevant. In this new arena the old marketing tactics and strategies of yesteryear don't apply

• Social media is not about being popular or a love-fest, it's about establishing connections with real people. You'll get the credibility and respect only when you've earnt it

So, what are you waiting for?

Alex


p.s/ If the following video doesn't convince you to get into social media NOW, nothing will!