Facebook, Twitter & TV?

The NY Times reported recently that "blogs and social websites like Facebook and Twitter enable an online water-cooler conversation, encouraging people to split their time between the computer screen and the big-screen TV."

This is a very interesting concept which forces a creative ad agency, like Peak Seven, to seek new and innovative ways to reach an audience.

As sexy as the 30 second TV spot is, is it still effective if people are logging on to update their Facebook and Twitter accounts each commercial break to tweet how amazing Apolo Ohno is or how the Saints won the biggest game of the year?

Or is this a blessing in disguise? User-generated content and discussions is what's fueling the social networking industry (and if it wasn't for social networking, I might not have a job today).

People are looking to feel connected, people want to feel apart of something more. We are no longer just spectators in our living rooms, but fiends for instant gratification (or discussion).

So go ahead America - lay on the couch, find some good TV and cuddle up to your laptop. Tweet away, we'll be following.

Social Marketing - Tips and Truths

A lot of organizations want to just jump right into the unknown world (well, to most of society) of Social Networking because they have heard from someone somewhere that everyone has to be on social networking sites. Not only is this not true, but takes a great deal of time and potentially a lot of money.

But for those brave souls who have or are trying to venture out into the vast unknown of the “Twitterverse” and have shared information with millions of friends and followers on Facebook and MySpace here are some tips to consider when establishing your social media presence.

First, be sure to create a brandthat is consistent among different sites. For instance, Peak Seven remains consistent with their name, graphics and basic designs from website to website. Check out Peak Seven on Facebook , Youtube and Twitter. A website like NameChk is a great resource to check your username and be sure it is available across different social mediums – and it’s really cool.

Next, as any good Social Marketing Guru knows, it is crucial to network with all of your social marketing platforms - link your Twitter to your Facebook and your blog to your LinkedIn. In other words make it easy for your clients, potential clients and people who just like what you do to know what you’re doing.

Ok, so you’ve created your brand and linked it all together now what? It doesn’t take a Rocket Scientist (although it could be cool to be one) to figure out that it’s going to take some work to get people on your page and to keep them there.

It’s important to serve as a resource by offering suggestions and advice. Also your page will continue to be engaging if you keep your followers and fans up to date on new technologies and trends.

Another way to increase readership is by creating contests that stimulate participation – offer gift certificates, free services or even weekly deals.

Lastly, listen to what clients are saying and encourage discussion by posting questions through surveys and discussion boards. With that said enjoy your endeavor into the never ending abyss of social networking. Good Luck.

Have questions, comments or concerns? Post them here. We’d love to hear 'em!