Social Media is still bubbling under the surface like lava... it's hot and can burn your brand to the point of no return. Everyday, things bubble to the surface... some cool off but others remain. As 2007 ends, many bloggers will reflect on social media and consumer generated content over the course of the year. There have been vast improvements and significant strides, but we're not even close to where Social Media will be at the peak.
Recently, while visiting California, I had an opportunity to catch some new shows on TV that I normally don't watch. There were countless references to YouTube and blogs and I couldn't help but swell up with excitement. Even today, after being in the space for quite some time, I enjoy hearing mention of social media on traditional network shows or splattered all over the newspaper. Below are two instances that really stuck out to me over the weekend.
- While watching the "Speed" channel one evening (a sentence I never expected to write) there was a special on the Barret-Jackson Car Collector Events. During the hour long program, car customizers and auctioneers were discussing the life behind Barret-Jackson. The main focus of this show centered around one car customizer who had placed his classic up for auction. However, when the Barret Jackson auctioneer dropped the gavel too quickly and sold the car at a bargain $300,000, the owner of said car was quite peeved. So peeved, in fact, that he took it to the blogosphere. Just goes to show all of us that the community lives ever where and the power of one blogger can ruffle up enough dust to the point where a response is required.
- While watching MSNBC, Jim Cramer was shouting about his new book and Mad Money. I am familiar with Jim and appreciate his knowledge and advice, but I don't spend to much time watching him as he is almost as mad as Charlie Moore... in a crazy way. However, during the interview, he referenced a YouTube clip that he is featured in that received over 1,400,000 views. No question, a significant amount, but interesting that he mentioned the view count.
Anyway, there is still so much more to come and the majority of people born before 1980 aren't even close to participating yet as the barriers to entry are still a little high for many. Educating the consumer and removing the fear that has existed for so long with so many will be key in the coming years. Quality content that answers the "What's in it for me" question will continue bringing the consumer in and opening up the world for conversation. After all, there has to be a reason to join and keep coming back and that can be different for every person. 2008 will surely see more great social media tools, but even 12 months from now, we still won't even be close to where we are going... it's going to be good!
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