It seems like everyday there is a new social network site that pops up...either as a stand alone smaller brand that is more of a niche player, or those who want to compete directly with the likes of FaceBook, MySpace and LinkedIn.The key to a successful social network, is to give more value into the relationships and to get more value from them. This can be done through creating network offerings in specific areas (entertainment, sports, news, politics, etc.). And offer incentives for participating. People are willing to spend their time and attention interacting and participating with a brand if there is an offering of premium content. Users need a reason to belong.Working with Partners: NetworksA great way to get the word out about a social network is advertising on other networks. Seriously. Why not? Apps are great. Massive growth can also be attained through word-of-mouth and viral growth. So the more networks created, and the easier it is, the more users will know that you're out there. Charities So many social media companies ignore the charity industry. Charities are always trying to find new ways to get the word out, get more people to participate with what they're offering and of course, to generate more donations. Offering social media software for free, to charities of all kinds can help social media companies get the word out about their software, through email lists, donors and community building. In so many cases corporations want to give to charities if they could prove a marketing benefit to them, and building social networks up around a charitable brand is a perfect way to do this.
This morning in the NYTimes there was a book review on the scathing new book Stealing MySpace by WSJ reporter Julia Angwin. The story of shy geeks hitting it big this aint - read reckless marketers, massive egos, scams and lucky cooincidences. Sounds like a plotline from a Dickensian novel....I like it already. Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile
