Social networking sites are often perceived as the nemesis of workplace productivity and in some cases, they can be exactly that. Used positively however, they can be highly beneficial to the your business and increase customer engagement, workplace morale and results in general. Here are three reasons why.
Professional Networking
Social media services such as LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook are excellent tools for professional networking and you can utilise them to build beneficial relationships with others in your industry. Whether to exchange ideas and advice or discuss industry news, relevant contacts can be invaluable. Networking sites are also fantastic ways to recruit new employees and your next rising star could make first contact with a reply to a tweet.
Happiness and Teamwork
Social networking sites keep employees in touch with each other’s lives and, as a result, friendships can be easily cultivated. In terms of effect on the workplace, this can boost morale and promote teamwork. It doesn’t have to be on Facebook or Twitter either and enclosed social networking tools for your business only, such as Yammer, can be an excellent way to give people their social media fix while interacting with other employees and keeping it relevant to work.
Keep in Touch With Your Customers
Social media sites are an excellent way to build a relationship with your customers and can be used to keep a simple dialogue open with consumers. A Facebook page, for example, can act as a notice board and allow them to post their questions and comments, which you can address quickly and easily in a transparent environment for everyone to see. In addition to answering support questions, you can also inform your customers of new products and services and let them know of any significant events that may be occurring.
These three simple reasons are just the tip of the iceberg and while employees playing FarmTown is clearly not helpful to your business, there are countless aspects of the social networking spectrum that can be utilised to positive effect.
About the Author
David Gerrard works for Boards Direct, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of whiteboards, notice boards and display boards.
