This is indeed the age of conversation – conversations that move across platforms and geographies. Some occur in small snippets at a time while others are in depth discussions that linger for a period of time. Whether the conversations are digital or offline, the conventions have not changed. There are rules of engagement, social and cultural mores, appropriate language and dress and always the keen reminder that conversations are a dialogue not a monologue.
All too often the focus is on the tools as people ask how to grow a Facebook page or amass followers on Twitter, but it’s still about people. Whether your conversations are social, casual or professional n reality the foundation has not shifted. No one fails at Twitter because they were unable to figure out how to tweet. Social media efforts go off the rails because of a failure to communicate.
Pretty pictures, splashy campaigns and automated systems are wonderful tools but don’t forget the real reason you’re there is to engage others in the conversation.
What tips do you have for engaging others in conversation? Does your online approach differ from your offline approach?
Age of Conversation 3 is coming soon.