The direction of social media these days seems to be more for conversation than for content. If you look at Lady Gaga, you will see that her fan base is very wide indeed and it really catapulted exponentially when she uploaded her own videos as she chatted to her fans directly.
If we’re influenced by anybody, it is fairly true to say that we will try to emulate that person in some way, subtle or not so subtle. Now whilst this may work as a marketing strategy it can prove a curse as a lifestyle approach because it will undermine our own unique perspective and style. That is why you should never take any notice of anyone who tries to persuade you to be other than who you are.
It seems that people actually thirst more “for honest, real and human interaction that is authentic, spontaneous and caring.” Consequently, the consensus says that any firms’ approach of creating content to engage with the public is quite outdated. So far, the jury is out on this topic but it is moving fast towards the conclusion that content can spark conversation, but it will soon become a supporting role only.
Similarly, one technology firms’ proposition, that we should use specific technology to engage people, is equally misleading, as it is the human spirit, the passion and fire of a person that adds value and carries the real message of hope and the possibility of a better future. It is said that “the best technology can only be intuitive and invisible as it will not create a community.”
There is much available content on the many ways that social media can keep relevant but as Christopher S. Rollyson, a partner in Socialmedia.biz said recently, “I firmly believe that digital social networking, because it enables more social interaction and because humans are overwhelmingly social, is the 21st century dial tone.”
Now, I must say that when the whole digital hype came out, I was a little sceptical because I know that whatever the online functions, nothing of any consequence can happen for an individual, until she gets a grip on the world out there. In other words, a person can only learn about themselves if they interact with their fellow human beings.
The message from all this, seems to apply very aptly to an online forum called Ecademy. At the moment it is going through a transition but is well poised, in my humble opinion to benefit from the way the social media is emerging. As was said, most people want to interact with honesty, truthfulness, authenticity and not so much for content.
This interaction which people crave cannot be manufactured, nor can it be contrived, but it can move mountains when the company or forum, serves as host and the community is doing most of the interacting. As Chris Rollyson said, “The best parties are given by hosts who know how to invite the right people, make appropriate introductions, provide ancillary amenities and let their guests do the talking.”
Cheers
Chris Borrett
Image Credit: FreeImages.com/Pat Herman
If by chance, you have not encountered my previous posts outside this blog, one of my favourites is about “How To Make A Decision and Stick To It”. You have the luxury of reading it by clicking here.