Many uncertainties and complexities still lay within the realm of social media, most typically ROI and the ability to calculate it. According to many academics, ROI has become, in a sense, the holy grail of social media. Businesses want to be sure of ROI within social media and therefore still need many questions answered. Organizations find themselves asking, “Are we doing the right things? Targeting the right people? How can we tell?” One common finding is that traditional metrics are non-compatible within the social media arena. They simply do not work.
To demonstrate ROI in social media terms check out Oliver Blanchard’s witty presentation in the link below:
www.slideshare.net/thebrandbuilder/olivier-blanchard-basics-of-social-media-roi
One must not underestimate the power of social media. DEI world study showed that 70% customers visited social media sites about information and almost 50% made purchases based on this information. This is huge! Given these statistics there is no wonder why Lady Gaga launched her new line of products are under her grey label tab on her page and include items such as an instant mobile printer and photo-snapping glasses.
One thing is very clear for businesses- social media is where current and potential customers are interacting. Both Lady Gaga and Barack Obama demonstrate the limitless benefits of a strong social media presence. Combined, the two icons have a staggering 60+ million followers. In order to drive their overall popularity, revenue and, ultimately, success, both use social media as a powerful resource.
In terms of Non Profits and Charities, where do they stand within the frenzy of social media sites?
Lady Gaga recently joined forces with Robin Hood Foundation giving away $1million and using different contests to increase the number of Facebook likes and followers for the foundation. The exposure offered by a celebrity Fan page, of which 38.6 million people follow at 6/17/11, is a groundbreaking opportunity for any foundation.
The 2011 nonprofit social networking survey, released by NTEN, provides compelling data on how charities are using social media. One distinct finding is the recent growth of social media and its use for online fundraising. Of the charities surveyed (over 11,000 nonprofits) it showed 9 out of 10 nonprofits (89%) reported a presence on Facebook in 2011. Nonprofits are undoubtedly getting savvier at growing their social media presence. The average number of Facebook followers for nonprofits rose 161% in 2011. The level of fundraising threw social media channels have also increased substantially. The number of non-profit groups successfully generating a small fundraising stream on Facebook is rising steadily and has the potential to revolutionize how charities fundraise.
What do all of these statistics tell us? Put simply, nonprofits can no longer afford to be without a social media presence. To all the non-profits, if you are not on Facebook, other Non-Profits are, making friends, receiving donations and forming relationships with their followers and supporters. The key to succeeding in the era of social media can be put simply- keep up!
- Pixxlz