Social Media Users Want to be Reached… Via Social Media

Cone, a branding and communications strategy agency, has just released some fascinating data.

When asked about specific types of interactions, Americans who use social media believe:

* Companies should use social networks to solve my problems (43%)
* Companies should solicit feedback on their products and services (41%)
* Companies should develop new ways for consumers to interact with their brand (37%)
* Companies should market to consumers (25%)

It isn’t clear exactly how this applies to nonprofits and foundations, but is encouraging. This passage in particular gives me hope.

“All of this is great news for marketers,” Hollywood explains. “Men and younger consumers are traditionally the most challenging to reach, while the highest income households are typically very desirable; here they are saying ‘Come market to us and interact with us online.’ This is really a license to put more energy and resources into this medium and do it effectively.”

I think it is safe to say that the same lessons apply for those of us working on advocacy. Our audiences want to be reached through social media. It is up to them to meet them where they are.