Join the conversation (Part 3 of 4)

by Laurel 7/15/2008 9:40:00 AM

(This is part 3 of a 4-part blog series on Managing Your Online Reputation)

Now that you know what people are saying, and where they hang out online, it’s time for you to join in. That’s right, my friend, if you want to manage your online reputation (come to think of it, manage may not be the right word, as it implies control… but I’ll run with it) you have to participate.

Participate in forums. Comment on people’s blogs. Join social networking groups. All those questions you found on LinkedIn and Yahoo! Answers — answer them if you can. Prove your expertise.

As people have more access to information, they will find it, and use it. Sell your company not by selling, but by being helpful and showing that you are the expert.

If no space exists online for something you’re passionate about, something that your company is an expert in, create a community. Chances are, there are more people out there who are just as passionate about your industry as you are — and these could be your star customers, future employees and biggest advocates.

How do you create a community? Start a group on Facebook or LinkedIn. Heck, create your own social network with Ning.

Oh, and if you want to be a thought leader — start a blog.

In short: Participate. That’s what social media is all about.