Leadership and Social Networking
If you are reading this blog, chances are that you are up to speed on the power of social networking. It might be a Facebook or MySpace page - you might have your own blog like this one - maybe you post videos on YouTube - or perhaps you are constantly tweeting on Twitter. Whether you like it or not, social networking is having a huge impact on our lives, and is may soon be impacting the way we do business.
Facebook statistics show that the number of 35-to-54 year old users logging in during the first six months of 2009 grew 276%! And the number of users in that age bracket doubles every two months. (T&D Magazine, July 2009).
1. Start small! Perhaps start a wiki for your department, or create clever and funny team update videos and post them on YouTube. The key is to take "Baby Steps" and celebrate successes one at a time.
Facebook statistics show that the number of 35-to-54 year old users logging in during the first six months of 2009 grew 276%! And the number of users in that age bracket doubles every two months. (T&D Magazine, July 2009).Right now the challenge for you as leaders is to show a business rationale for using social networking as a business tool. From a training perspective, I am very excited about the opportunities. How about using Twitter to send feedback to employees when necessary? How about a site where people can share their updates to their team members? What about using it as part of the performance appraisal process?
The technology is here, and some companies are truly taking advantage of these opportunities to enhance their businesses. You can do it too, but you can't expect to just waltz into the boss' office and let them know that you need to set up a Second Life account for your team.
If you really want to get involved in social networking, here are some good starting points!
1. Start small! Perhaps start a wiki for your department, or create clever and funny team update videos and post them on YouTube. The key is to take "Baby Steps" and celebrate successes one at a time.2. Become very good partners with your Information Technology Department. Some I.T. departments are going to be skeptical, as it may involve more work for them. Make sure you have a good working relationship with them.
3. As I mentioned earlier, make sure you can show the value-add to your department and/or organization. A team Facebook site is only relevant if it helps your team be more productive and effective. Create a one-pager that showcases the benefits of social networking.
4. Finally, if you don't get the answer or support you are looking for at work, you can start by yourself. Create your own blog or Wiki site, and see how you can add value.
The only bad decision is to make no decision. You may not be a fan of this emerging electronic tidal wave. But as a leader, it is your responsibility to provide your employees with the work culture that allows them to bloom in their jobs...and part of that bloom will come from social networking!
Now get out there and tweet me!
Pete
Pete
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