Adventures in Business and CRM

     There is so much going around on the internet right now on why Social Media is great, but far too few reasons as to why social media is not only important, but imperative to business in these crazy times. In this post, I will tell you exactly why social media is eliciting a completely new genre of internet marketing, indirect consumer ‘wooing’ and even support into the forefront. And so begins a dawn of a new era!

     Trying to entice new customers in this economy has never been an easy task, but the real proof of hardship was seen in the data that last Holiday season’s shoppers brought to internet retailer’s attention. According to a study done by ForSee Results, consumer satisfaction with online shopping fell 3.09% during the second week after Thanksgiving, compared to the same week in 2007 from 77.6 on a 100-point scale to 75.2. Larry Freed, ForeSee’s president and CEO says:

 “Maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction throughout the holiday shopping period will separate the companies who are able not only to survive 2008, but to thrive from those that will be closing their doors in January.”

The Consumer is Now Playing ‘Hard to Get’

     With analysts worrisome forecasts on the rise for the 2009 economical outlook, I am seeing more and more reason to start expanding the horizons when it comes to obtaining new customers and clients. With the dollar being held even tighter in the palms of your target demographics hands, you’re either already looking to make some changes in the way you pursue your sales, or you’re simply ignoring the fact that sales are more difficult to make, and are perhaps even thinking that things will eventually get better, and economic turmoil will soon pass. I’ve got some bad news for you if you’re in agreement with the latter statement… it’s not over, and 2009 is likely going to be a lot like was.

• Your consumer is now trying to buy as much as possible. When they finally decide to buy, it’s going to be a well-thought out purchase, that likely was deliberated for a month or two before the cash even hits the register.

The Domino Affect of Thinking Inside of the Box

     Many business owners are simply waiting too long to implement any type of new marketing efforts within their company. By the time they are on the phone with me, they’re frowning at the idea of implementing social media because the lead-to-sale time is “way too long” for them. They immediately suggest what they are familiar with. It’s this same last-minute fear that is dropping so many business’s like flies these days…. the fear to try something new. 

Doing More of What Isn’t Working Isn’t Going to Make Things Better!

     I can’t stress this point enough. For some businesses, the idea of implementing any indirect sales and marketing avenues are so far-fetched, they often giggle at the idea when it’s suggested in meetings and consultations. They often say how they’d hate to be on the same social network that teenagers, comedians, artists, perverts, and musicians frequent. They say it could hurt their companies credibility, and damage their “professional” persona and reputation. Some say it looks low-budget and shoddy.

     I say that NOT implementing these strategies could not only hurt their business, but quite likely take them out all together (I wouldn’t have said that a few years ago, but times are tough these days!). As for damaging their reputation, social media would actually render them a wide-spread and respected reputation, if used correctly.

     Apple, one of the most brilliantly branded companies in the world, has taken almost every perfect step to building a community around it’s brand. I believe that any company can effectively carry this out… and now is not the time to ponder, or wait around for something else to go wrong, or for sales to slip further downward. It’s time to take action.

He Who Holds the Money Makes the Rules

     And my, have the rules changed! For one, consumers are as demanding as ever, with their once-in-a-while, very calculated purchases. Not only do you have to build even more credibility, trust, and rapport, you also need to provide top-notch support, customer service, and an overall visable and respected brand/image. This is where social media fits in nice and snug. All of these things can be achieved using social media. Content, friends, followers, networks, articles and blogs all make up a giant flurry of buzz around your company. It delivers a powerful punch, and if used correctly, it far outweighs most paid marketing strategies out there.

      What are some of the ways you’ll be ramping up your social media efforts in 2009?

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