Finally I see people waking up to the rich potential of social.
It’s people like Mark Zuckerberg building a billion-strong community, of folks like Gary Vaynerchuk preaching the importance of caring and tending to your customers using online channels in tandem with a real-world presence.
I was delighted to be asked by my local newspaper to quote on the town’s football team offering social media guidance to its players in light of the kerfuffle with Joey Barton and Ashley Cole in recent days.
Dave Thackeray, social media expert and host of daily online tech talk show Talknology, told the Visiter players have a duty to their fans when commenting online.
He said: “When they take on the job of playing in front of supporters, footballers also take on the job of role model. That puts them in the same position as others in the public eye such as MPs and newspaper editors. In much the same way as keeping eyes on the ball while on the pitch, online these men and women must stay focused on their reputation and ensure their behaviour is beyond reproach.
“While it often hits the headlines for exactly the wrong reasons, social media can be used for good. That Twitter updates are often seen by millions means that those in the public eye have a big opportunity to inspire and motivate – and in the case of footballers, all while having a ball.”
I also provided some guidelines that would serve us all well:
Quick tips on getting social
- Think about ways you can do good through social media. Find ways to add value to your relationship with your followers and friends online.
- Consider potential repercussions. When posting a Twitter or Facebook status update, ask yourself if the coach or your manager would be happy seeing the message go public.
- Learn from your peers. Some people with more experience in online communication will serve as a great inspiration to you as you build a happy and supportive network.
Because whether we like it or not, we’re not just publishers, but role models to many, too. So what are you doing to get social for the benefit of you, your business, and the customers you serve?
And PS – did you like that ‘having a ball’ reference? It doesn’t take much…
