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Some Thoughts on How to Integrate Social Media...
Submitted by MegSavin on Wed, 11/17/2010 - 17:19
in
Input from Roots & Shoots
"I think the thing we keep in mind as much as possible is that Social Networking cannot be the "Be all, End All" for your communications. We're always asking ourselves whether or not we are creating communications for Social Networking, or we're using Social Networking to broaden the reach of our already existing communications.
It's also important to realize that your fans and followers are doing so because they want to be a part of something. So, rather than reaching out to them all the time for donations, or just to talk about how your program is so great, isn't always going to reach them. Reaching out to them for there thoughts, advice and ideas is a really great way to involve them, and help them feel a part of something bigger, and therefore contribute more (even donations)."
--ssweeney
Comments
I think that Shawn's comment
I think that Shawn's comment "It's also important to realize that your fans and followers are doing so because they want to be a part of something", really hits the nail on the head. People use online social networking tools to pursue their own personal interests, and to be a part of a community of people who also share these interests.
Organizations can engage with social media to "its true potential" probably by doing something close to what Meg is talking about: By treating their social networking communities as extensions of their already existing communities, by harnessing the energy and passions that their supporters show offline, and then encouraging open, vibrant exchanges online.
Yes, the important thing to
Yes, the important thing to remember is that these social networking tools should be working for us--and not the other way around--as you've mentioned, an extension of already existing communications. (See featured blog, "Tools are Just Tools. Strong Relationships Build Thriving Communities,"). But, do you find the nature of this conversation changes when taken online? Are people more "outspoken" on a Facebook page or other online forum than they would be in a local meeting? Have these social networking tools changed the way your base of supporters interacts with one another? Or is it merely a continuation of what has already been said offline? Which organizations are stepping up to the challenge of achieving a true dialogue with their constituents -- to use social media to its true potential?