You can’t watch a news show or read a periodical or blog without someone weighing in on the value of social media. If you’re not sure what to do, you have plenty of company. A recent Citibank/GfK Roper study found that 76% of small businesses find that social networks aren’t helping them grow their businesses. That’s a sobering stat.
But then a recent Performics study found that an impressive number of consumers are using social networks to share brand info: 46% say they would talk about or recommend a product on Facebook, and 44% would do so on Twitter. Meanwhile, 36% of YouTube visitors have visited a business’ website after hearing of a brand on a social network site.
The study also found that communicating relevant messages in the consumers’ language and on their terms yielded the best prospect for growth in sales. So what gives? Are the Citibank/GfK Roper businesses just not using social media effectively?
What’s been your experience? We’d like to know.
SharonDexter said on April 21, 2009
Great article and advise and Oh – so true. I think the majority of us have been in a situation where we all “want” to fire a client, but just don't want to take the risk. I've found out, as you stated aboe, it is worth it for so many reasons.
Jessica Duda said on April 21, 2009
One more to add “Engages in unethical behavior.”
In this case, the client may want to you to spread untrue information or steal information. A common practice in lobbying, the client may retain the major firms to limit opponent/competitor access to expertise.
Sibyl Edwards said on April 23, 2009
Hi Sharon,
I'm really glad you liked the article. And you are right, it can be really scary at first but as long as you are diplomatic and respectful (if possible!) and explain why you can no longer do business with them, it is usually worth the risk.
Best,
Sibyl
Sibyl Edwards said on April 23, 2009
Hi Jessica,
It is great to hear from you! I hope all is well.
I agree about “Engages in unethical behavior.” as one to put on the list. Information is power and when a firm hires another company or firm to block access to information, or steal info, I would avoid doing any business with them if at all possible. Believe me, their unethical behavior has a habit of spreading to all their business dealings – eventually infecting yours.
Best,
Sibyl
Allyson said on April 23, 2009
Great article Sibyl.
jillfoster said on May 1, 2009
Thanks Allyson (from both Sibyl and myself!). I too appreciate her insight and clear thinking on this sensitive client relations point. Looking forward to WomenWhoTech’s telesummit May 12 for sure (congrats on your second year(!)
Sibyl Edwards said on April 23, 2009
Hi Sharon,
I'm really glad you liked the article. And you are right, it can be really scary at first but as long as you are diplomatic and respectful (if possible!) and explain why you can no longer do business with them, it is usually worth the risk.
Best,
Sibyl
Sibyl Edwards said on April 23, 2009
Hi Jessica,
It is great to hear from you! I hope all is well.
I agree about “Engages in unethical behavior.” as one to put on the list. Information is power and when a firm hires another company or firm to block access to information, or steal info, I would avoid doing any business with them if at all possible. Believe me, their unethical behavior has a habit of spreading to all their business dealings – eventually infecting yours.
Best,
Sibyl
Allyson said on April 24, 2009
Great article Sibyl.