What’s This Social Stuff About Anyway?

It Is About The Cat

“What we think or what we know or what we believe is, in the end, of little consequence. The only consequence is what we do”

– John Ruskin

Many people  think  social is about pictures of the cat or what they ate for lunch, and well, it is.  It is because social is about relationships.  Well, that may be fine for a Facebook profile posting but how does that relate to social MEDIA-the tools used to promote business?  Ahhhh.  Still about relationships because the operable word here is SOCIAL.

Once involved in social media what you learn is that social evolves to include interests and causes, to become sharing and giving.  You find new community based on things that are important to you as an individual and a business.  Don’t get me wrong.  A big brand like Coke isn’t taking about the cat but they may be trying  “to teach the world to sing”!  The real beauty of social is that the vast array of choices for interaction are endless.  There are folks that really do like to see your candid stills of the cat in some awkward position or want to know about the “best Philly cheese-steak” this side the of the Mississippi.  There are folks that are interested in the fund raiser your business supports, an honest mechanic or a great sale on shoes.

I like to think of it as a cocktail party with none of the pressure.  Really, think about it.  I always look as good as my profile picture, I can jump in and out of  conversations as simply as hitting the LIKE button.  I can offer sparkling tidbits when they actually come to me (damn why didn’t I think to say that when I was chatting with Ms. Big Cheese?)  I can come late or leave early without comment.  I can discuss my interest in the salt water slug without an embarrassing silence.  I can be the life of the party without the hangover!

Ask yourself, how many business deal are struck at a cocktail party? Or on the golf course?  No I am not going to post my proposal on my Facebook Fan Page, but I am going to get to know people, and they will get to know me.  We’re going to build a relationship that does open the door to many things, including business.  The old adage of  “not what you know but who you know” still holds, except now you can know many more people based on common interests and needs.  Moreover, these folks are better qualified because they have chosen to interact.  I’m pretty sure any business is interested in a more qualified lead.

So, if you think social is silly or a waste of time, maybe you should think again.  If you don’t know how to get started, seek the help of a professional.  Social Media Managers are in high demand and readily available.  Above all however remember, it is about the cat.  It is about real genuine interaction and the human condition.  It is about relationships.

That cheese steak sounds kind of good right now-where was that place?