Back in the day, corporations lost touch with the very thing that made them tick, people. Luckily technology has enabled companies to grab hold of that again and rebuild the personal relationships once lost in the pursuit of growth.
The modern day potential of social media is unknown and difficult to measure. What we do know is that those who try and get it understand that conversations are critical. The more we listen and engage the more likely we are to stumble into insight, unique points of view, or a connection we never imagined possible. It takes dedication, passion, and commitment from people to keep the conversation going. The question now – how does all this translate into a powerful corporate strategy?
The game has changed. When people in organizations share information and an understanding of everything going on around them, new opportunities, challenges and creative strategies take hold. Web 2.0 has simply made that connection faster and easier. The key – let go of control, accept where the conversation goes; learn to listen better – real value stems from our ability to tap into the social consciousness of individuals and their hunger to connect with one another.
I’m here to try and make sense of it all. To evaluate and develop different SM strategies that makes conversation easier. To honor the fact that any dialogue is of value whether in a postcard, smoke signal or on twitter; people need a voice.
In a first attempt to filter through it all, I started a list of SM guidelines –“My SM Manifesto.” I’ll shape, add to, and alter it as I see fit.
My SM Manifesto
Misfits matter. They see and say things differently. It’s ok not to fit in.
Talk is cheap, just because you are talking doesn’t mean you have something to say.
The truth may hurt, listen to it and ignite change.
Invite everyone in; you never know who will be the life of the party.
Agree to disagree. Dialogue is better than debate.
If the conversation is not thriving it may just as well be dead. Water it, nurture it, and help it grow.
Platforms are forever changing. Conversations are the constant variable.
Dabble in areas and conversations that make you uncomfortable. Explore points of friction.
Trust is rooted in honesty. Honesty is seeded in transparency.
You are your brand. Be true and honest to it, it will always reveal itself.
Sociability goes beyond the keyboard and computer screen, it translates in real life.
One size does not fit all. Not every platform or community is the right one. Find the “one” that suits you.
Conversations are ongoing, two way, and require attention by real live people.
So what’s your manifesto? What principles guide your SM strategy and approach? If anything, has the game really changed? Or is it more a matter technology enabling us to go back to the way things used to be?
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