Nathan Parsons' Blog

In an article posted last week on eMarketer, the importance of engaging users of social media is underlined, as they say companies are moving away from just simply being “on” the major social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and blogs) to actively engaging consumers.  But wait a second, isn’t that exactly what social media was put there to do in the first place?  It is a medium for people to interact, and now that interaction is no longer just peers talking to peers, but companies having open discussions with their customers.  To look back on the fact that many companies were just setting up accounts to have a presence on Facebook or Twitter seems utterly useless.  Users are interested in content and conversation, and without those two, social media platforms look and feel just like the outbound marketing those companies think they are trying to replace.

From personal experience, I know an active online community can pay huge dividends.  My band, Louder Than Love, has been using social media since we formed in late 2009.  By providing opportunities for discussion, as well as good content, we have been able to leverage Facebook and Twitter to the point where many online and print publications are taking notice.  Our online community single-handedly voted us best band in Vancouver in the Westender two weeks ago.  The incredible support also landed us press in TV Week, Miss604 and Hummingbird604’s blogs, as well as a spot in 24 HRS this Friday.  This is exactly what they are talking about when they say flip the funnel, the evangelists are spreading the word thanks to a strong base in social media.

http://www.emarketer.com/Article.aspx?R=1008274
http://www.facebook.com/louderthanlovemusic
http://www.westender.com/articles/entry/music-a-whole-lotta-love-for-local-band/
http://hummingbird604.com/2011/02/07/an-exclusive-interview-with-louder-than-love/
http://www.tvweekonline.ca/joe_biz_blog/louder_love_hotter_ever