Your valuable insights offer tangible evidence that social media marketing is for real. It’s not a magic wand which perhaps is sometimes incorrectly implied. It takes hard work with persistence and measurement strategies.

Thanks again for your valuable insights.

Most of our organizations are pretty lean. People wouldn’t be onboard if they weren’t strong contributors. So simply walking away from existing talent because they “don’t get it”, while sounding expedient, leaves some critical value behind. Conclusion: move slowly.

On the other hand, playing nice while everyone catches up wastes precious time and squanders learning opportunities, possibly eliminating the first-to-market opportunity. Conclusion: move quickly.

The question is, how does an organization move quickly AND enjoy their existing team resources? I wish I had THE answer.

My path forward on this challenge has been to clearly state the facts, issues, goals, dreams, etc. to all, and to invite any- and everyone to join in. Eventually (quickly) a cadre of true believers emerged – while others remained “traditional”.

The “believers” had to assume more work (and risk) as they implemented social media tactics and practices, while experiencing the scrutiny and, sometimes, criticism, of the “traditionals”. As each victory arose (and was published), we continually shared why and how we did it, and invited everyone to join in. Eventually more and more people got it – as the results became conclusive and impressive.

Interestingly, in the face of overwhelming proof, data, and facts, some “traditionals” still say, “I don’t get it”. I am dumbfounded at that, but remain open, transparent, and welcoming – in hopes that the facts eventually earn everyone’s confidence.

As companies commit more to SMM and get positive results the percentage will be very high. The results will justify it.

I really like the emphasizing of team work. That will be the key to success.

The thing I am wondering is what amount of time will be set of to do social media marketing from a person in the virtual team?
10%
25%
50%

or more?

http://www.findandconvert.com/can-social-media-contribute-to-a-firms-psychological-health-and-success/

I agree that it’s a great idea to staff within the organization, but at the same time I think it’s important to have someone who’s full-time role it is to be the social media leader in the organization. This would be the person who is the external voice for the company, serves up best practices for the rest of the organization, and helps with other social media efforts. Over time, I think the need for this role will slowly disappear as social media marketing becomes so integrated into every part of the marketing efforts that it will be everyone’s job to be a social media expert, not just one or two people.

I agree, Social media gives staff the opportunity to produce good results using contemporary tools in an enjoyable work environment.Also Marketing staffers who embrace social media tend to really enjoy it,especially as they begin building a personal brand.

Thanks!
Maria Reyes-McDavis
Social Marketing with Impact