If you’re reading this article you already know how much we rely on the internet for our information and you probably have a solid idea of how powerful the medium has become. As a freelance corporate communications copywriter, I appreciate how much social media has extended the reach of ordinary businesspeople like me. But is the time spent blogging, Twittering and Linking In likely to pay off in a corporate environment?

For a while, I had my doubts.
At first blush this whole social media frenzy seemed a little Hollywood and, frankly, why would anyone open up to strangers about the trivial details of daily life? How could this possibly be relevant for business on a corporate scale? But what I missed initially was the difference between social media as a way to play and social media as a business tool.

As communications professionals we’ve always needed to find creative ways to get our message across effectively while simultaneously facilitating audience response. Engagement has been an issue for years and with the immediacy and flexibility of the internet, it’s easier than ever — as long as the people we want to reach also have an online presence.

Some of the organizations for which I have freelanced have experienced many successes with their internal social media networks; corporate communicators are justifiably proud of their results. Commitment to the concept is lacking in many organizations, however, as employee energies are needed elsewhere. Here are a few things to think about:
The Benefits of Blogging.

A regular blog gives members of your internal or external audience a chance to learn more about your organization’s products, services or programs. It should showcase organizational strengths and abilities and position your key people as authoritative leaders. It should also demonstrate the benefits of what you’re promoting in specific, concrete ways. Yes, it’s a commitment and we all have far too many of those already – but do it consistently and with integrity and you’ll open the door to expanded exposure in surprising ways.

Getting Linked In.
LinkedIn is about building a network of professional contacts who can introduce you to people with resources you might need – experts in a subject area, prospective employees or even prospective clients. Building your professional network on LinkedIn and actively maintaining relationships on that platform shows you are serious about your work and a consistent source of reliable information. Your LinkedIn profile allows you to link to your company website so people can easily research your areas of expertise.

Twitter isn’t just for Twits.
Building your list of Twitter followers allows you to exponentially increase the number of people who could hear about you and your business. It gives you a platform for providing helpful, interesting, friendly information to and it enables you to proactively promote your business or service. Like a blog, Twitter allows you to showcase your skills, abilities and knowledge and to develop relationships with a wide range of prospective customers and supporters. It’s not perfect for everyone – if your audience isn’t there yet then this may not be a great way to spend precious moments. But many people are finding the strategy successful.

Twitter has not yet taken the world of corporate communications by storm. A number of adventurous communicators have embraced the medium, however, and have developed a strong identity for themselves and their corporations that is generating respect and interest in a wider world.

You don’t have to jump into social media all at once – all of these tools work incrementally and building your network is part of the fun. Consistency counts and as you become more comfortable with how social media works you may find it a valuable – and inexpensive – part of your marketing mix.

Author Bio: Susan Crossman is a career writer who promotes excellence in communication through writing with clarity. Her freelance writing services include web content,newsletters,reports,speeches and other custom documentation. For more details, please visit her website at http://www.crossmancommunications.com

Category: Writing
Keywords: Toronto freelance copywriter,corporate communications,employee engagement,employee satisfaction,L10N