Comments on The Lovable Rogue: The Overwhelming Importance of Transparency

Hey guys, thank you both for your thoughts. I thi...

2008-11-12T21:24:00.000Z

Hey guys, thank you both for your thoughts. I think that the whole transparency issue is one of the most important considerations for any organisation looking to succeed in the social media. Failing to consider this will without doubt destroy an organisation's social media efforts.

I think that the purpose of the social media itself needs to be examine (perhaps my next post!). The above got me thinking; as was the case in print and television before it, it is fine to market through the social media within reason. As long as you are transparent about your contributions then they will invariably be hospitably received within the electronic community. It is when the tool becomes a 'foghorn', used solely to broadcast a message that the use thereof becomes intrusive... No amount of transparency can save you in that situation! My recommendation; use the social media transparently, but remember - it's their tool, not ours.

Thanks again guys.

I feel that as long as you are honest about who yo...

2008-11-12T19:50:00.000Z

I feel that as long as you are honest about who you are and what you represent, you can't go wrong. If you want to know who I am...it's easy. I make no efforts to hide the fact that I am a marketer and that I am actively promoting myself and my product within the social media sphere. I've gotten a great deal more respect this way and the results have been quite effective.

The result has been that people are now seeking me out, knowing that I hit their niche/interests. Once you prove to people that you are honest and worth knowing...the marketing aspect becomes secondary (and quite easy). Great post!

Couldn't have said it better myself, Chris. As you...

2008-11-12T15:43:00.000Z

Couldn't have said it better myself, Chris. As you mention, social media is a fantastic tool to market a product, company or service to your consumer base or target audience - but only of it's done right.

Get it wrong - whether intentionally or not - and you'll soon see the (lack of) rewards coming straight back at you.

Social media is a powerful combined voice - start one negative response and be prepared for the backlash.