Continuing our look at  Age of Conversation 3 authors, today we meet Deborah Brown…

Q1: Give us a brief overview of what you wrote about.

A1: My chapter in Age of Conversation 3 talks about determining the best social media vehicle for your ultimate goals. You need to first determine the purpose of your involvement in social media and then what you hope to gain.  Using that information will help you determine which social networking site(s) to master and consistently participate in.
Q2: What drew you to the Age of Conversation project?

A2: Drew was the driving force. I became aware of Drew’s website and liked his point of view and have learned a lot from him. I learned about AOC2 and asked if I could join in the fun.  I love the idea of a book that combines the opinions and experience of great minds around the globe. The fact that the profits go to charity is another great selling point! When I heard there was to be an AOC3 – I signed up right away!
Q3: What aspect of marketing / Social Media is being overblown right now?

A3:  People are viewing social media as the be-all-and-end-all to grow their business when in fact it should be viewed as one more tool in our arsenal.
Q4: Where are the real opportunities in marketing / Social Media right now?

A4:  If we could stop thinking about money for a minute – the real opportunities lie in the relationships we build. We have this incredible chance to connect with our customers REAL TIME – responding to their ideas, their disappointments and their comments.  It is a wonderful tool for sharing ideas (our own and retweeting those we admire) for the benefit of others.
Q5: Predictions are cliche, instead, tell me one thing you are going to make happen this year?

A5:  As more businesses jump on the social media band wagon, they should encourage their employees to participate in this unique world – talking up the company, connecting, responding, sharing information. I believe one tool owners need before they open the flood gates is a series of policies and procedures that provide guidelines so employees know the boundaries of their social media sandbox; to protect their name and the company brand. I’m putting the finishing touches on that manual which I will be offering in May.

Bio: In 2004 after 25 years in the corporate world I opened my own business.  I am a freelance website writer and customer relationship speaker.  Recently my most popular speeches have focused on using social media to build credibility and make connections with customers.  My website is www.AllWriteInk.com and my blog is www.makeorbreakmoments.com/blog.

Tags: age of conversation 3, author interviews