This practical guide can help any business or organization make sense of the social media buzz and build a successful online community.Social media can be an incredibly powerful marketing tool that brings a company or organization huge rewards. But for beginners in this new world, the potential risks are also high. Consumers are particularly passionate in the online world; the most active social networkers are poised to be your brand's gushing fans-or your most scathing critics. Both multimillion-dollar profits and self-inflicted PR fiascos are possible via social media.This guidebook begins by defining "e;social media,"e; "e;social networking,"e; and other terms that may be ambiguous, then details what recent market research reveals about the scope and growth rate of the social media landscape. Real-world examples of both large and small organizations who have successfully implemented social media strategies are showcased, and the hype and failed promise of famous flash-in-the-pan social networks are examined. The author outlines a comprehensive strategy for success with social media, including practical information on watching metrics, establishing beachheads, determining your driver, building a checklist of driver "e;amplifications,"e; and combating the "e;what now?"e; factor.

This practical guide can help any business or organization make sense of the social media buzz and build a successful online community.Social media can be an incredibly powerful marketing tool that brings a company or organization huge rewards. But for beginners in this new world, the potential risks are also high. Consumers are particularly passionate in the online world; the most active social networkers are poised to be your brand's gushing fans-or your most scathing critics. Both multimillion-dollar profits and self-inflicted PR fiascos are possible via social media.This guidebook begins by defining "e;social media,"e; "e;social networking,"e; and other terms that may be ambiguous, then details what recent market research reveals about the scope and growth rate of the social media landscape. Real-world examples of both large and small organizations who have successfully implemented social media strategies are showcased, and the hype and failed promise of famous flash-in-the-pan social networks are examined. The author outlines a comprehensive strategy for success with social media, including practical information on watching metrics, establishing beachheads, determining your driver, building a checklist of driver "e;amplifications,"e; and combating the "e;what now?"e; factor.