I understand that many companies and managers think that social media is a massive time waster and unproductive distraction. Been there done that – we have all logged into our social media accounts while we are work. Banning from them using it doesn’t actually stop it (they can check on their smart phone). Putting strict policies in place is just ridiculous. Have you ever thought about using this to your advantage? Most of your employees already have their own online social networks & digital profile so how can you as a business, leverage these and work with your team to help you achieve goals and KPI’s?

But here is the BIG KICKER – it can actually add massive value if you use it correctly. So why is there value in social media? Here are 4 massively untapped opportunities that you need to consider ASAP

1. Create a Brand Employee Advocacy Programs

Your staff are your biggest asset and by empowering them you can take advantage of their networks and digital profile. Making your employees your advocates is a massive untapped opportunity that costs little when done well but allows massive amplification of brand messages across new channels. The reach of your employees combined can easily span beyond your current brand reach and adds authenticity, trustworthiness and trust to the communication equation.

Sounds simple enough however before you jump in head first you need to make sure you implement an Employee Brand Advocacy Program the right way, or it will be doomed to failure. Take time & engage a specialist to put this in place.

2. Use Social media & digital channels for prospecting

Social media is a great tool for getting to know your target audiences, understanding what they like & don’t like, what products they might be interested in, how they spend their free time and so much more. Their profiles actually create an ideal persona and you can get to know your prospects from afar. Being about to digitally stalk them (in a good way please) means you can find commonalities, ways to connect and get to know them much better than ever before.

3. Actively use Social media for customer service

Don’t make the mistake of thinking social media is all one sided. It is not. Customers reach out on social media channels to get help, ask questions, make complaints and give praise and positive feedback. If you are on social media channels then take it further and encourage your customers to connect with you to provide additional service. They are a lot of ways this can be done so get creative and see the value in the engagement this can provide.

4. Use Social media for internal team communication
   Social media is a hugely underutilised tool for internal communication. If you don’t have an intranet site then using different social channels for pure internal team communication can be cost effective (mostly free), productive and efficient ways to engage and connect your teams from multiple locations.

There is massive value for your business in harnessing the power of social media. So think 2,3 or 4 times before you ban your staff from your using social media. You could be cutting your nose off to spite your face!

If you need expert advice with any of these areas, start the digital conversation with me (we specialise in just this)