Wednesday, February 4, 2009

I'm giving myself an F for blogging...

...but to make up for it, I'm going to share this awesome post that Heather came across today. One of our fave bloggers and PR heroes Brian Solis posted this interesting commentary on brands who really "get" social media. Some of my personal faves on the list include Disney & Nike. But where's Zappos? I think they're doing a fabulous job using social media to connect with people - not just shoppers or consumers -- but people. And isn't that what this is all about?

As we try to get our clients more and more involved in the social media universe, Brian's advice that it's not "reasonable, feasible, or strategic" for companies to participate in EVERY social media site/network/etc. is spot on and we wholeheartedly agree. Sometimes it makes sense for companies to Twitter and sometimes it doesn't (note to self, remember this next time you're in a pitch!)

We do want to give a shout out to our clients who are getting involved in social media and doing a great job. We know it's not easy - in fact, it's far too easy to get distracted, as we've learned. So here are some of our partners who really trying to use social media to listen and engage people online.

First Tech Credit Union (check out www.uturnchallenge.com in March)
Northwest Evaluation Association (our newest Twittering client)
Bridgeport Brewery (shocker - people like beer!)
The Game Factory - creator of family-friendly video games like Zenses and Build-A-Bear for the Wii

But the main point is - companies should be doing at least one thing a day that scares them. It could be as simple as allowing comments on your blog to sending out a Facebook invite for your grand opening party.

And I'll be honest, it's a little chilly when you first dip your toe into the HUGE ocean that is the "world wide web", but once you get in and find your niche, it warms up just fine.

Til next time,
JulieAnna

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