Social Media for PR

Before I start, here is a definition of Social Media.

So, I met up with two friends in and I asked for their thoughts on PR and Social Media.

They gave great insight on how Social Media could fit into the PR scope with very valid considerations. Here are some points of our interesting discussion:

> PR is focused on the message. Depending on the product or service and it's lifecycle, Social Media initiatives need to be well positioned and well targeted to get the message across correctly and effectively. (I personally find PR as an important marketing channel to get messages out.)

> Social Media platforms may lack credibility as information is non-official.

> The objective if the Social Media campaign is important. If it's awareness and generic to create hype, Social Media would be perfect.

> Social Media initiatives may not be suitable for all companies.

> You can't avoid Social Media, it's becoming a touch point for many individuals. However, using Social Media as an effective tool is vital. Developing a strategy is key and that 'strategy' is something new and often uncontrolled. Unlike traditional PR, many things are well prepared and crafted.

> The scope and reach of PR is changing and Social Media could play a key role in PR.

In a nut shell, I am a firm believer Social Media is going to be an important factor for Marketing and understanding consumer behaviour. The consumer is evolving, and so should traditional mindsets.

Here's a good article by Chris Brogan. Do check it out.