So I think it’s only fitting that we start with a general understanding of what “social media” is and how we’ll address it here at Social Media Snippets (SMS). A quick hop over to the wikipedia definition of social media (speaking of social media) lands us with this:
Social media is an umbrella term that defines the various activities that integrate technology, social interaction, and the construction of words, pictures, videos and audio. This interaction, and the manner in which information is presented, depends on the varied perspectives and “building” of shared meaning among communities, as people share their stories, and understandings.
Two key phrases above that stand out in my head are “social interaction” and “shared meaning.” How true. Without ongoing conversation and dialogue, we’re left with a bunch of one-way technological channels that push content, but fail to engage others and flourish in a “push-pull” approach.
In addition, if you follow the link above, I think it’s important to call out the key point about social media not being finite. There are no boundaries or constraints around social media. The potential is limitless. How great is that?
There have been amazing tools and technologies (blogs, MySpace, Facebook, YouTube, etc.) created to foster social media but at its foundation, social media relies on two-way conversation. At the heart of it all, we’ve been provided with ways to connect with one another in faster, more dynamic manners and it’s only going to get better.
-Scott
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Scott, all very true. A related point that I’ve heard you emphasize before, early on while you were developing the Donate Life Illinois campaign through social media platforms, is that authentic conversation is crucial to creating true two-way engagement. Did you catch Augie Ray’s post at socialmediatoday the other day likening social media interaction to party etiquette?
He took it from the perspective of brands jumping into the social media pool, but reminded me quite a bit of what you’ve been saying all along. It’s not enough to just show up (i.e.push out your opinion, platform or brand). You need to invest the time in building meaningful interactions through listening and authentic two-way conversation.
Scott,
I agree with you here. There is a beginning shift in the corporate environment as they are finally realizing the need for social interaction with their clients/customers. Soon, people will be looking for Certified Internet Marketers proving the skills needed to run a sucessful internet campaign. I see the trend beginning to happen already.
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Thank you,
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