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How often do we see companies leverage social media for generic asks: “Follow us on Twitter,” “Support our cause,” “Like us on Facebook.” But, why? How does having Brand X in my online world benefit me?
One core tenant of effective public relations is storytelling — getting beyond facts and figures to communicate value, impact, need. Social media isn’t just about amassing a large network. Rather, this idea of “humanizing” a brand can spark meaningful action.
Instead of simply asking someone to connect online, organizations should use social media to convey meaning and context. Offer compelling reasons to follow, support, endorse, review, interact or take some other “next step.” As PR pros, that’s where our storytelling instincts should kick in.
Beyond Facebook and Twitter, what storytelling tools are available — and affordable? Here are 30+ of my favorite “Storytelling 2.0″ tools to explore:
Combining Multimedia
Video
- YouTube
- Vimeo (think interviews with the people impacted by your organization, videos that visually show the impact of your group. Put your journalist hat on and think about how to package a story.)
- UStream (can you live-stream an event or a conference? What about live video chats?)
- Tout (15 second video status updates)
- Podcasts
- Blog Talk Radio
- Cinch
Citizen Journalism
Blogging
Group Texting
Location-Based Services
Some other tools to consider:
- QR Codes
- Slideshare
- Scribd
- Infographics (these are all the rage … for a good reason. Visually appealing, effective method for conveying data.)
- Mobile apps
- Google+
- Email (Seriously … it’s not dead. Don’t overlook it.)
