Social Media

These are probably the two hottest words on all recruiters and decision makers lips. Along with that naturally there are thoughts, does this process work? What is in this process for me? Is it a fad? Does it suit the image of my company? Does it fit in with our corporate plan?

 

Social Media has become an integral part of the way we live and work. According to Nielsen research, social network traffic grew by 43% from June 2009 to June 2010. Social network activity now dwarfs online games, email and search as the number one activity. Every single day more people are also now turning to their social networks, as the preferred way to find jobs. The facts are that 86% of employees know where they want to work, another fact, we dont search for products, offerings and companies anymore, they find us online. According to Socialnomics, Social Media is not a matter on just being engaged but it is a matter of how well we do it.

 

With social media it is rather overwhelming if you are new to this whole "thing". Remeber though everybody is new to social media as there are daily changes in the way we communicate. My message to you to day would be to embrace social media, have a strategic approach and happy networking.

 

 

Companies need to embrace social media with the same vigour that the internet and websites are today an intrinsic part of the communication within a company. Often it is about making a start. The HR department is the custodian of employee communication. By developing a strategic approach, the HR department can apply social media tools in an integrated way where they have real meaning.

Managers often feel a lack of control, particularly when a major change process is taking place. Rather than trying to control the process with zealous compliance, leaders need to embrace change and encourage employees to use it meaningfully to improve engagement.

Companies are responding to the growing interest and investment in social media applications, to support the attraction and retention of talent. A few companies are taking a leadership position as visionaries by embedding social media as an integral part of their employee engagement strategy.

 

Do you have challenges? Are you able to overcome and embrace?