So many companies are wondering how facebook.com, twitter.com, myspace.com, linkedin.com, and all the other social media sites are going to help them increase sales. They want to see specific examples of sales that were generated from campaigns directed at such methods. If they are persuaded there are sales to be had, they jump in and they start talking:

• “This is why our product is great.”
• “Come to our store.”
• “Here’s a coupon.”
• “Read our blog.”
• “Watch our new commercial.”

Perhaps this isn’t “bad” (although it might be), but it could definitely be better.  The real purpose of social media is… to be social.  What do you think of someone at a party who only talks about themselves, and who acts like they know everything?  It’s no different for a brand that acts that way online.  The real value of social media is in LISTENING AND RESPONDING when people talk about your brand.  Responding doesn’t simply mean telling people how they can get help, or trying to put out online fires.  As this video shows, in some cases responding means reinventing yourself.  I’m not sure if Domino’s can tell you exactly how many pizzas will be sold because of their online efforts, but I can tell you that the success of their rebranding would have been much worse off without it.

After watching the video, let us know what you think!  If you want help orchestrating a complete social network marketing strategy, reach out.