Public Relations & Social Media: A Budding Relationship

Social Media is changing the way that companies interact and engage consumers.  In the field of public relations, it is essential to any brand to incorporate various platforms in to the their companies digital campaigns.  Three of the most popular social media platforms include:

Twitter: A social networking website that allows users to share thoughts and interact with followers through 140 characters.

-       Once you have created a profile, begin following other publicist and media contacts because you will be able to update them about client news, while casually pitching a story.

-       Since public relations is all about establishing and maintaining relationships, do not hesitate to get personal with your followers.  They will be more likely to notice professional tweets, if you can relate on a personal level.

-       Make sure that you are an active user.  Although you may tweet on consistent basis, if you are not partaking in conversations or discussions, then you are not capitalizing on the full potential of the site.

YouTube:  A video sharing website that permits users to upload, share, and view videos.

-The first step for any company or brand is to setup and customize a channel.  This works extremely well with up and coming brands because it allows them to gain exposure and brand awareness on an international basis.

-Unlike other websites, YouTube offers a free analytics that will allow you to monitor viewer’s information.  It shares their demographics; community and tracking data that will help you gear future content to cater to viewers.

-Sometimes you have to attract the users to your channel.  YouTube makes it easy to upload, embed or share links to videos through other social media platforms.

Facebook:  A social networking site that connects over 600 million users around the world

-Utilize all available applications to incorporate your blog and other social media site to your Facebook business profile.

-Start product or fan pages for clients.  This will allow potential consumers to link an image with the brand.

-Take advantage of the advertisement opportunity that Facebook offers.  They allow you to target your ads to a concise market.