Building Relationships Through Tech
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Social media has quickly become a go-to method for many B2B and B2C relationships. These fun infographics highlight just how much.

In the past few years, social media usage doubled and daily users quadrupled. Most people now surf the web while they watch TV. It’s interesting to note that 10% go to a TV show’s website while they’re watching the program, reinforcing that committed fans can never get enough. Oh, and almost 30% check out the latest on Facebook while watching TV.

Facebook Continues to Deliver More

Facebook recently announced a full-scale revamping of its “Gifts” initiative, aligning with big retailers including Apple, babyGap, Fab, Brookstone, Dean & Deluca, Starbucks, Lindt, ProFlowers and Random House. Users can send digital or actual physical gifts to other Facebook friends.

This is only available for a select few now, but the rest of us should see it soon. It works like this:

  • Log into Facebook and select the gifts icon. (It will be on the sidebar menu soon.)
  • Buy your friend a gift. Select what you want, add your message and it’s ready to ship – no address needed.
  • Your friend is notified instantly via Facebook. He enters his own shipping info and can swap for a different size, flavor or style before the gift ships. Talk about cutting down on returns. Brilliant.
  • The packaged gift arrives – delivered right to your friend’s door.

Should Your Business Be On Facebook?

Any business can sign up by contacting Facebook here. But should you put your business on Facebook? We get this question a lot. You may not always be able to make a business case for using social media, but most of the time distinctive, branded businesses can, whether that business is B2C or B2B. Consider merchandising.

Let’s be honest, most us love branded stuff, and even have life-long connections to it. I still have the maroon overnight bag that Flying magazine sent every year with my parent’s renewed subscription. My family always traveled with FlightSafety International CREW luggage tags, and I learned to tell time on a Yingling Aviation clock that mimicked an altimeter. You probably have similar experiences.

Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Google+ and the many other variations of social media all revolve around one thing, interaction. Sir Richard Branson said it best when he was asked, “What advice would you give to other company leaders about how to develop a presence on social media?” His response: “Be authentic and organic. It can’t be forced or it won’t work. And most importantly, have fun.”

It’s Good to Have Friends

As we follow new advancements and engagement opportunities in social media, we encourage those who feel they have no place in this dynamic environment to keep your options open. Don’t rule it out. The benefits can be great. You have customers/fans who are actively interested in your brand. Social media gives you another way to build and nurture those relationships.

And remember, two billion people are out there using these social platforms. Now.