Omni Automotive Advertising Blog

Social Media is the big buzz today. Lots of businesses are using services like FaceBook and Twitter to boost their customer base. But using social media does have some limitations. Here is an interesting article we found that you should read.

Despite the numerous benefits that social media can bring to a business or individual, there are many misconceptions about what it can and can’t accomplish. Far too often, unrealistic expectations lead to disappointment. Knowing what social media can’t do will make it easier to harness the power of what it can accomplish.

5 THINGS SOCIAL MEDIA CAN’T DO

Replace A Marketing Strategy

Social media is powerful, but it isn’t a stand-alone substitute for a marketing strategy. Effective marketing strategies can and should incorporate social media elements. However, simply launching a StumbleUpon account or Facebook Page isn’t going to cut it. (more…)

There are many ways for a business to use social media correctly, and only a few ways to do it wrong. So why do so many businesses keep falling into the same traps? The answer is easy: human nature. As we all know, humans are constantly beset by all kinds of temptations. That’s what makes us human. Here, then, is a list of the Seven Deadly Sins of Social Media that David Griner from Social Path put together:

1. Lust
Loving your customers is great, but take it easy. In the early days of social media – around 2006 – a business would sign up on MySpace and start “friending” everyone with a pulse. These days, lusting after fans like that will get you labeled as desperate – or even as a spammer. So take it slow and get to know the people who connect with your brand. In return, they might end up as customers for life.

2. Gluttony
Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Once a business decides to take a seat at the social media table, they often dig in with gusto. The downside: They want to be everywhere at once, spreading themselves across every social media network instead of being strategic and focused. You don’t need accounts on all of the social media sites – just the right ones.

3. Greed
It’s hard to shake hands when you are reaching for someone’s wallet. We all want to make money through social media, and if you have a good business, it will happen. But if all you do is spout off sales messages on your Twitter feed or Facebook page, no one is going to stick around. Be yourself. Be helpful. Be a good listener. Then the money will come to you.

4. Sloth
Always avoid the temptation to “set it and forget it.” Starting a blog or creating a presence on a social network is easy. Keeping it alive takes hard work, adaptability and commitment. You would never open a store and then close it two weeks later because of a low turnout. Go for the long term and plan accordingly.

5. Wrath
There are a lot of people out there itching for a punch in the nose, but you’re not the one to give it to them. Once you are active online, you are bound to get a few critics. Some offer valuable feedback. Some shout obscenities. Focus on the ones who deserve a response. And no matter what, never lash out. Many businesses get into a social media shouting match and guess what? In social media, the business never wins.

6. Envy
Don’t be dissuaded by other people who are doing it better than you. Someone will always have more followers, more blog comments, and more write-ups in Mashable. Focus on who you are and what your business has to offer – and not on what the other guy is doing. And when you have to steal an idea (hey, these things happen), find a way to make it better so no one will even recognize the original.

7. Pride
Stay humble, rock star. Successful social media marketing is easier than you think. If you plan ahead, pace yourself and listen more than you talk, you will strike a chord with existing customers and potential fans alike. It will open new opportunities and build your brand in ways you never imagined. But don’t let it go to your head. There is always more work to do.

Originally posted at www.thesocialpath.com

Omni Advertising has just released their new demo reel.

Much attention is being paid to the recent admission by Toyota over the recalls. If you haven’t seen the commercial yet, here it is.

On Monday morning, Alan Mulally, president and chief executive of the Ford Motor Company, introduced the 2012 Ford Focus at the Detroit Auto Show. The Focus is being touted as the savior for Ford, akin to what the K-car was for Chrysler.

In the US, the Focus will be powered by a new 2-liter direct-injection gas engine whereas in Europe it will be diesel powered. Sedan and hatchback models will arrive in 2011. Updated designs will sport “a European look”.

Read the NY Times article here.

Ford is also counting on the Focus’ fuel efficiency to encourage consumers to switch to the Ford line. The redesigned Focus features a small bump on the vehicle’s taillights that reduces air turbulence and allows the car to travel further on a tank of gas.

Read the Wall Street Journal article here.