“Social” is a word that has so much utility and attraction. You can slap “social” in front of almost business term and you can grab some attention. So, I did a Google search of the social terms that get thrown around. You guessed it, social media is number one in terms of mentions (189 Million). But there is even social finance that delivers 58K search results. And social accounting delivers 200K search results.
Why do we prostitute the word “social” so much in business? For some of us we need reminders that business (at its roots) is a social activity. Try building, selling and supporting a product for a market of One. Not very profitable and lesson is humans are in the business equation at every step. For others, adding “social” demonstrates that you are hip or read the latest guru book. Regardless of the reason, social is one hot term (for now) and expect more business terms will come up with “social” tattooed on them.
Recommendation: Instead of tattooing your title or business with “social”, try acting social first.
- Demonstrate listening to your audience, ask for input and follow thru on select input
- Have a voice and presence. Not paid spokespeople, but employees sharing POV with each other and customers. It is okay to empower employees to take care of your customers – that is why you have employees.
- Participate where your customers hang out
Still confused? I did a post last year about my stay with Omni Hotels and their personal touch – simple way that they listened and acted with empowered employees. Then Omni Hotels participated where I was hanging out (twitter).