Practising Smart Social
In business, reputation is everything and that is why being social media savvy is more important than ever. As a business owner, practising smart social means more than knowing the difference between YouTube and Yammer – it means being able to identify and manage both the potentials and setbacks that come with this powerful communication tool. Undoubtedly, Social media has shifted the dynamics between workplaces, their employees and publics. Why? Because social media when coupled with web 2.0, 3 and 4G mobile, tablets, laptops and any other smart devices blurs the lines of traditional time structures – private and public – or in other words makes business and employees accessible 24/7.Now, this is not necessarily a bad thing, the nature of social media’s instantaneous communication (when harnessed correctly) can be a powerful tool. It has unlimited potential to increase brand equity and loyalty in an online environment, not to mention increase clients bases or even recruit staff!
Therefore, this week we have put together three reasons why you need to employ a social media policy and practice smart social now!
1. It Sets Boundaries
Having a social media policy removes any grey areas. It establishes the rules and expectations for both the employer and the employees regarding social media and your workplace. Your policy should outline what’s considered “confidential” information and spell out that an employee needs prior approval before “posting” certain types of information and articulate clearly, what these are. Setting boundaries should also include the consequences of actions, which clearly deemed inappropriate in your policy.
2. It Reflects Your Company’s Culture
Everyone should take ownership of your brand and it starts from the “top” down. Employers should set the example for employees through defining the brand image, providing guidelines, and training in the use of the brand, especially in regards to social media. What could start out as an innocent post on an employee’s Facebook wall could end up on the 7 o’clock news. When creating your policy, think about these elements – your media policy is an ideal location to reaffirm what you want the workplace culture to be, both internally and with the public.
3. Addresses Loss of Productivity
On average, Australians spend roughly 17 minutes per “visit” on Facebook according to the 2014 Yellow Social Media Report and (of course) depending on what type of business you are in, this time spent or even more may be considered ok. But remember: social media usage won’t get you very far if you don’t accomplish the core capabilities of your business. So in order for your social media endeavours to be successful, you need to articulate to your employees what the right balance between social media and other work looks like.
