What’s the Proper Social Media Etiquette? [Marketing Cast]

Magdalena Georgieva
Magdalena Georgieva

Updated:

Published:

Should you follow back somebody who follows you on Twitter? Should you comment on the Facebook updates of your connections? These questions form a social media etiquette that businesses deem suitable when building relationships online.

In today’s episode of the Weekly Marketing Cast , we discuss what the social media etiquette might include:

There Isn’t One Right Way

A lot of companies make a mistake thinking that there is one right way to communicate online, notes David Meerman Scott. That’s the way it used to be--us talking to our audience. While this is not necessarily going away, it’s important to recognize the existence of a two-way communication. Social networking allows for the formation of a dialogue, which can be vibrant and spontaneous.

The Value of Giving

Giving can empower businesses, drawing them closer to their target audience and creating evangelists. There is a lot you can give to your community--give them attention, free content, recognition... For instance, if someone leaves a comment on your blog, comment back. If they follow you on Twitter, follow them back. “A lot of this giving is a real challenge for many businesses because we are just not used to it. We are not used to that interaction,” says David. 

Make It a Cocktail Party

People make the analogy between social media and a cocktail party for a reason. You need to have a conversation with people--not just talk to them or try to sell something. Engage people in the way that you would like to be engaged if you were in a virtual cocktail party. 

What else would a social media etiquette include?


Related Articles

We're committed to your privacy. HubSpot uses the information you provide to us to contact you about our relevant content, products, and services. You may unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For more information, check out our Privacy Policy.

Outline your company's marketing strategy in one simple, coherent plan.