The newest and most compelling Social Media tools from around the world — sponsored by Social Media Academy.

Highlights from the Welcome Keynote

Axel Schultze, Founder Social Media Academy

November 16, 2009

Educated purchasing decisions are changing business

• Networks provide trusted sources of information.
• Social media is where customers meet customers to share experience, to develop skills, to prevent failures.
• 80% of purchases are based on recommendations, and social media is the Number One Recommendation Engine.

Two objectives: Be a part of the Recommendation Chain and Create a better Customer Experience

The best salespeople don’t sell — they build relationships

No opportunity is ever lost: someone will always take it.

CHECKLIST for what to do to get started:

1. Look up your top 50 business contacts and find out where they have a presence in the social media landscape.
2. Create your own accounts where you find your customers, prospects, partners, and influencers.
3. Visit your sites regularly, at least every other day, if possible: Read posts; Comment; Care.
4. LISTEN to what’s on top of their minds and think beyond your product sale.
5. Be approachable and let your contacts connect with you.
6. Share your thoughts and interests . . . and get Social.
7. Take one of the reporting tools and begin to measure sentiments around your brand.
8. Tell your colleagues what you learn from customers and prospects. Encourage them to listen and learn as well.
9. Help customers with links; introduce them to existing customers and experts for your products and services.
10. Stay focused on people who are relevant to you — otherwise you get distracted and will be spending all your time browsing.
11. FINAL CAUTION: Do not waste time growing followers, editing videos, chatting with everyone who invites you. Rather, follow YOUR OWN business objectives.

. . . and tune in for more news and reports from Social Media Tools Week.