Social Media – What Is It

Social media is something on everyone’s lips today, but what about the management of it? Social media is a free resource and one of the best ways to get the word out about a product, service, or company when used correctly.

There are two primary ways that social media management is used. The first is through the social media itself. Aspects such as RSS feeds, sharing, user rating and polling, etc. have the power to involve your customer base in way that is virtually unprecedented. You can get opinions, ask for recommendations, explain product functionality, and really add a face and a personality to your business. Social media may also be used in a promotional way through activities such as blogging, commenting on blogs, participation in discussion groups, updating social networking profiles, etc.

Whatever method used, you are essentially creating word-of-mouth and developing a brand image or reputation through social media. Using social media effectively involves more than just marketing and brand building, although they are important elements. Social media is becoming an increasing strategic element in knowledge management, specifically product/service development, recruiting, employee relationships, customer relations, and business development. However, effective use of social media may require professional management, Hiring a professional to provide social media management is over 36 percent more effective than doing it yourself, and that is if you are social media savvy.