Non-profits and social media

Today over lunch I heard a presentation by Michelle Wilde of Tech NPO. Michelle is an expert in both non-profit marketing and technology. She spoke on "eMarketing: how to successfully market your nonprofit organization on line," to the DFW chapter of the American Marketing Association.

We hear about the social media sites (LinkedIn, Plaxo, Facebook, Myspace) almost daily (hourly?) these days. Ms. wilde's take on them, however, was targeted at how to find and market to potential donors. It was compelling and clear.

The messages to take away from this is just as if you used more traditional media:

• Always have an "ask"
• Give those that stop by your site ample opportunity to give and give easily
• Build a robust e-mail data base
• Direct traffic to a professional-looking and functional website

As with any kind of networking, don't be afraid to ask and focus on who is in front of you right now.

Relentless

What is enough exposure?

We've all grown in our use of the social media tools. LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and others occupy a significant amount of the networker's life.

But have we really learned to use them?

Have we forgotten what the "original mission" was? Do we have the intent of these tools when we sign on and "connect" with our friends, colleagues and others?

I'd like to hear what others are saying or feeling about these media. It appears, from my vantage point, that there is a disconnect between what we are using to reach people and actually reaching people.

When have you been exposed enough? When do you reach the point of overexposure? Is too much exposure bad?

Relentless

Overkill on social media

After a number of months of using LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter, I'm on overload.

And I guess I should be. But it doesn't have to (and shouldn't) be that way.

What got me thinking about this is Facebook. I see a number of colleagues using Facebook as a way to reach out to freinds, clients, prospects and the rest of the world. However, hearing moment-to-moment about "being tired" or their latest cup of coffee, is a bit much. So, I've taken the approach that I take with LinkedIn.

LinkedIn is a bit more serious. It allows you to make a comment about what you are doing right now, as does Facebook. However, I've even taken a step back here: I only mention those things that are serious and of interest to my fellow LIers. These entries are more of the "travelling to the AWMA show" or "attending the IABC networking event" rather than the fluffier stuff. Truth is, I've also taken the same serious direction with Facebook and Twitter. It's polite, professional promotion.

And I've cut back to only a few entries per week rather than the multiple-day postings of earlier this year.

A good thing is nice; let's not abuse a good thing. And, too, let us all realize that we're adults and we should think carefully (and long and hard) before speaking (or, in this case, typing). Besides, we all have work to do beyond this.

Relentless