Social Networks and the First Time Mom

Guest Blogger: Meag Warren

When I first found out I was going to be a mom, being the crazy research type person I am, I immediately ran to the internet to start my search. I was completely overwhelmed with the amount of social networks made just for parents. Some great examples are cafemom.com, Mom365.com, babycenter.com and many more. Not only are the sites filled with doctors research and information but they have millions of questions and answers that are all posted by fellow parents. Through pregnancy and now birth of my son, I have been able to find information from parents who have experienced the same things. It is very comforting as a parent to know your not alone in some situations and are able to get sound advice from thousands of other parents just like you. Sometimes all the research in the world just doesnt compare to those real life experiences. These sites are also great for many other things such as all the great shopping tips! Everyone knows how expensive babies can be and by using these tools I know where all the great sales are and have saved a ton on diapers, wipes, formula, clothes, etc. These sites are even great for passing on information about fun kids activities happening in your area. This year we have been to kid fairs, swimming lessons, baseball events, library events, etc. all because of companys and parents posting their information on these websites. It truly is a great resource for any parent to help stay connected and up to date.

Too Many Different Social Media Accounts to Manage

Guest Blogger: Oscar Casas

FaceBook, Twitter, Google+, Blogger, and MySpace –by themselves, they’re already a lot to handle, but what if you’re in charge of the social media for your business? If so, then you have the above accounts X2! So let’s assume you’re in charge of social media for your small business or organization. How does one keep track of multiple accounts? When posting updates, would it seem difficult to not update your own account as opposed to your company’s account? How do you keep the two separated? Is it difficult to manage multiple logins / passwords? Is there a social media app that can separate the two for you? Will MySpace ever be relevant again?  

Book Authors Get Blogging

Recently I have had a little time to read for enjoyment (not school textbooks) and have actually managed to finish a few books. Several of the books that I have read are a three-part series, all with the third books waiting to be released. Naturally, I researched online to discover the release dates of these third books and what I found was very interesting. Instead of the author’s main website, the first search result pulled was the author’s blog. This happened when I searched for several different authors. I found the blogs to be much better than their websites and more personal. The blogs were a better way for me to relate the author, obtain information about the books, learn about what fans thought, and for me to contact the authors directly. The experience of the blogs provides a more personal feel without as much marketing behind it.  

So I decided to examine some differences on two author’s blog sites. Both of these authors (who shall remain nameless) write popular young adult fiction books. Most of the content was the same (comments from fans, post about upcoming books, etc.) but there were two things that I noticed right away.

1.       Author #1 blogged about her personal life as well as her books and story ideas. Author #2 strictly used the blog to discuss the books and stories.

2.       Author #1 did not respond to fans often or in a timely manner. Author #2 usually responded within 24 hours.

I find it interesting to see how people utilize blogs and what kind of information they disperse. Author #1 uses her blog to connect with readers through a personal level, allowing them to see into her daily life and world, while author #2 only connects with readers on a more professional level.

I do think that author #1 should attempt to respond to follower’s comments and posts. Most of the comments and posts were about the upcoming book being released in a few weeks. The author should be responding quickly to keep followers informed and interested in the new book. This is the perfect time to enhance the relationships with fans and consumers.

Author #2 had a very unique idea to solve a situation with her book. The third book in the series was supposed to be released today and it failed to meet the deadline. Fans and followers of the blog exploded the page with comments and questions. The author did not ignore what people were saying and asking. Instead she apologized, explained what had happened in the editing process and why the book was being delayed, and then as an apology gift released the first chapter of the third book for free on the blog. Talk about customer service 101!

So to sum up….book author’s get blogging!

Facebook IPO

Facebook has managed to once again change the social media scene. “Facebook on Wednesday filed to go public and raise $5 billion in what could be the largest-ever Internet IPO.” This is an amazing feat for Facebook and this announcement has also managed to put a high value of worth for other social media sites/companies. There really isn’t a whole I can say on this subject right now because I am just so excited to watch how other sites handle this. For example, Mark Zuckerberg announced that Google, Twitter, and Microsoft were some of their biggest competitors, stating that actions these companies take over the next year could have an effect on the FB stock. Here isa link to a great article that explains everything. Let me know your thoughtson this. A Facebook stock could really change the market. LEt me know what you think!