Developing a strategy for using corporate social media is a three-step process with participation by the highest levels in the organization. The strategy consists of describing organizational goals, defining the functions that make up the organizational activities and determining appropriate social media interactions. These initial steps can then be implemented in the correct organizational levels where they will be most effective.
Facebook, YouTube and Twitter are examples of networking sites readily accessible to many users. Businesses and corporate entities can learn to use these media forms to disseminate information, increase customer loyalty and brand name recognition. Networking is fast and very effective.
Designing a workable strategy begins with describing the goals of an organization. The specific goals will depend upon the organization, but communications improvement is a typical choice. The enhancement of communication and information dissemination could relate to employees, customers, officers of the business or stockholders. Another goal could be to increase the number of customers who are repeat buyers. Improving profitability is always important to a business.
The next step in the process is to define functions in the organization. Examples of functions performed include customer service, financial management, administration and purchasing. Each of these roles is vital to the overall health of the business.
Implementing the initiatives based on the functions and goals is the third phase of an organizational strategy. The exact initiative will depend on the previous two elements of a strategy. A Facebook page to use in marketing or recruiting brings in top talent. Blogs about features of company products, or the organization itself bring a human face to the corporate image. Blogs can also be used to reach clients, customers or members of internal and external committees. Preparing educational units online is another way to use social network sites.
Corporate social media methods effectively promote products and services related to the corporation. Planning is the important element that cannot be eliminated. This type of networking is low cost and offers an ROI that is hard to beat.
Andy Albright is the CEO of National Agents Alliance, a life insurance provider that does $150MM+ in annual revenue. Looking into these tips for using corporate social media in life insurance sales, we would like to tell you more: National Agents Alliance Twitter page and National Agents Alliance Facebook page.


