I am having trouble seeing how social networking sites are having a big impact on businesses outside of advertising. I love how facebook only shows me ads that I want to see based on my "likes & interests" and the things I click on (are they watching me?? Hmmm, maybe that will be next week's blog), but how is it really helping outside of that? I have read things about how businesses will do a search for you and dissect your facebook page when they are trying to decide whether to hire you, but I don't really see how that helps businesses in the long run, either.
I can see building "better" relationships with your coworkers, and ever your boss(es), but that only goes so far, and it certainly doesn't make big changes on businesses. I currently work at a restaurant in Miami, and we just recently launched a facebook page where we advertise specials and give out coupons. As far as advertising is concerned, this has actually brought in a good amount of new guests, but perhaps I should further explore how social networking will help out our business.
Becoming friends with guests of our restaurant is a process that we have already begun working on. But should we be more active and post comments on their status, or even on their pictures? "Hey take a look at this! That restaurant we went to last month likes my status and wrote LOL. Let's go eat there again next month!" Hey, it could work.
I don't think becoming close with our online relationships is really an option. These people don't see a restaurant that they're friends with as an actual person who could potentially be their friend. I think the idea would be to remain acquaintances and simply remind them that we exist. It could also give them a sense of comfort and familiarity with our establishment.
The amount of time required to do this effectively would have to be determined with time. So far, just a few of the managers work on the page during downtime at the restaurant. If this thing grows, so could the manpower necessary to keep it running smooth and effectively. I wouldn't be surprised to find that some larger companies have employees working full time on similar projects.
So, as for now, advertising is the only thing that is making a real impact on this particular business when it comes to social networking. But as many of us have already found out, the sky seems to be the limit when it comes to the internet.
You mentioned on the blog that you don't see how socialnetworking can help a business besides advertising. On the other hand, you explained that through advertsing special offers and coupons you saw an increment in clients. This is exactly how it is helping your business. You are attracting new clients that perhaps otherwise would not have gone to your restaurant. This turns into more $$ for your business proving that social networking sites are helping business stay afloat and gain new clients. And this is just the beginning... imagine the possibilities! BTW what restaurant is it?? LOL
ReplyDeleteI have also heard of companies looking through Facebook pages to make a decision whether to hire or not. It is a scary thought. I believe the interaction between companies and individuals should be limited on Facebook. I understand the "Hey we have specials effect" but to post on their customers status would be a little excessive.
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