I often get asked what the term Social Business really means. Is it the new name for social media? Is it something else entirely?
Here are the main differences as it applies to business. I've broken the main points down into the top line bullet points and highlighted the main differences between the two.
Social Business
Breaks down organisational silos. In the social business collaboration enables virtual teams to work together efficiently on projects without the need to send attachments round, keep multiple copies of the same document that gets out of date.
Democratises data. Project and workflow information is available to everyone in the team that needs the information. Enterprise search enables documents to be discovered, permissions ensure that the right documents can be seen by the right person.
Anywhere, Anytime working. Project teams can work remotely. Conferencing tools enable sharing of information, virtual face to face meetings, and synchronous work streams and engagement.
Flattens hierarchies. In the social business, internal communications tools means that you can communicate with the right person in the company without navigating the hierarchical layers of management. Work with the person in the organisation that has the skills you need.
Social Data. Keeps communication flowing and knowledge sharing inside the business
Social Media
The earphones of the brand. Listen to what your customers are saying about you, engage them in dialogue, build relationships and solve problems. Discover nascent brand issues before they magnify to major problems.
The brand microphone. Use your brand advocates to tell your message on your behalf. With appropriate advocacy programs and incentives schemes in place, your brand advocates will become an extension to your business.
Community Engagement. Have a relationship with your customers and partners that goes beyond the sales cycle. Build enduring feedback loops, gain innovation, ideas and change sentiment.
Competitive credibility. With thought leadership papers and leadership posts you can show your expertise in the marketplace against your competitors.
Search visibility. With updated, fresh and engaging content, you will be easily discovered and visible in search rankings.
Social Connections. Keeps two way conversation flowing between the business and its customers and partners
Both social media and social business conversations enable a rich dialogue inside and outside of the organisation. To be successful in your social media activities externally, you need to have a 'joined up' business internally.
Good business practices will deliver excellent customer charters, customer service and customer satisfaction.
It all starts from within. Is your business a social business yet?
Image credit: jasminejennyjen