The topic of social media
is very relevant in today’s society, and it has transformed the way many of us
function. As a middle school teacher I
have experienced my students’ fascination with Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter,
and I think back to my youth and my own interest in the newly available
internet-based messaging programs. My
enrollment in this class has allowed me to consider social media in a different
perspective. Businesses can use these
tools to promote, provide service, and offer products.
In order to effectively
analyze social media and its effect on marking, I think it is important to
define “pull” versus “push” marketing. In
the first case, consumers “pull” the information or products they demand for
their needs; the “pull” model is more interactive, where the buyer can demand information according to his or
her requirements.
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| Although some prefer one over the other. |
Personally, I actively
disregard and dislike the “push” method of marketing. I find most television commercials to be distasteful
and unpleasant, and I feel as though the Internet is laden with unnecessary
distractions that frequently cause many of us to lose focus. Thus I may be biased when I say that I am
hesitant to accept social media as a method for me to receive marketing and
advertising. I also acknowledge that I
may be in the minority and many other people (consumers) are very receptive to
social media marketing.
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| SpongeBob is so wise. |
Business strategy should
incorporate social media as a way to engage consumers in the buying process. It should allow the buyers to provide
feedback and get assistance. There needs
to be awareness that although consumer habits are shifting, not everyone uses
social media.
Another interesting concept
in this analysis is the effect brought forth by “word of mouth.” Experience has taught me that word of mouth
is an integral way of strengthening businesses.
The Internet and social media have allowed people to access and share
experiences in an organized and reliable manner. Sites that allow you to post reviews and
comments have created an accountability system for consumers to “grade” their
experience with particular businesses. These sites include Yelp and Angie's List. Before ordering take-out food, going to see a movie, or hiring a
contractor, a consumer can check one of the many local directory services with
user reviews to find a 5-star selection!
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| Chinese food takeout choices. Yum! |
So I will continue with my
distaste for unwelcomed solicitations and offers. I unsubscribe from email offers, mute the
television commercials, and limit my exposure to social media. I am, however, thankful for having forums to
share my concerns and positive experiences; this makes me an empowered
consumer, and I will continue to give my business when I feel as such.
