Saving the world with Social Media

I know, I know! everyone’s got social media overload these days. There’s a lot being said and it looks like a particularly thickly forested jungle out there.

I went to Internet World this week to learn more about Web 2.0 and social media and the new developments happening.

This is set to be a big shift in the way companies communicate and do business in much the same way that the Internet was 15 years ago. After the first early adopters proved the opportunities there was a rush of businesses on to the internet with a few late starters hanging back. Now it’s just the norm. Countless business and personal purchasing decisions now start at Google. It’s the easiest and most convenient place to start.

So the good news is about social media that in five years time, we won’t be talking about it any more, we’ll all just be doing it and it will seem completely normal. Much like traditional marketing, there’s no black art or even science behind it, it’s just common sense. But it does require a mind shift. Companies need to get away from the highly controlled, polished world of hierarchical approvals and develop an authentic voice which can engage in conversation with buyers and influencers. Content which is immediate, relevant, engaging and interesting is key.

Not all businesses will be ready to take the leap immediately, but it’s my prediction that every business will be taking it eventually.

And according to Will McInnes speaking at Internet World, the power of social media might even save the world.

Rebecca Whincup, Account Director