A study finding that’s sure to excite social media marketers: “Social friends and followers feel more inclined to purchase from the brands they are fans of” - eMarketer

The survey by Chadwick Martin Bailey and iModerate revealed some interesting conclusions about why people fan a brand on Facebook or follow one on Twitter:

·         The top reason to friend a brand on Facebook or to follow a brand on Twitter was for discounts and promotions

·         The no. 1 reason why someone decided to initially fan or follow a brand – being an existing customer

The stat that was most eye-opening – and somewhat expected – in terms of how social media can drive brand affinity and positive word-of-mouth was that 60% of respondents said being a fan of a brand on Facebook increased the chance they would recommend it to a friend.  On Twitter, nearly eight of 10 followers would recommend the brand.  If your brand is not yet involved in social media, what are you waiting for?

A recent Oncology Times article featured oncologists who have embraced Twitter.  According to the article, select physicians who have joined the online dialogue say they’re using the space to disseminate, correct and expand information; communicate with patients and advocate for research funding.  Featured oncologists shared that many of their colleagues haven’t joined the conversation, citing reasons from a reluctance to try new technology to a lack of time.

 

Full article:Oncologists Using Twitter to Advance Cancer Knowledge

 

 

New Years Eve for most of us is a fun holiday to spend with friends, family and … brands?  Companies both large and small have traditionally used this holiday as a platform to generate another round of media coverage before the year’s end.  However, this year’s branded festivities are bringing a slightly new twist, focused on social media sharing as opposed to traditional news pick up.

Here are some neat campaigns going on this New Year’s Eve:

·         Nivea Kiss Platform – I heard about this campaign, not from a new article, not from a blog post, but through a text message from a girl friend – “Watch for me on NBC!”  People strive for fame, and they like sharing those moments with others.  Nivea recognized this human condition and cashed in. 

·         Red Bull: New Year. No Limits. – If there’s one company that has a passionate fan base, it’s Red Bull.  They could post a viral video of a potato (drinking Red Bull, of course) and it would generate viral buzz.  Yet, the company has again confronted a pre-existing record by challenging athlete Travis Pastrana to break the record for car jumping on New Year’s Eve.  It will be interesting to see if the brand sees as much viral buzz during the event as it saw in the weeks leading up. 

·         New Year’s Eve Worldwide Webcast – In case you can’t make it to Times Square this year… wait, what am I talking about, you CAN make it to Times Square this year!  The Times Square Alliance and Countdown Entertainment are bring Times Square festivities to your living room.  Though the campaign doesn’t appear to be branded at first sight, a quick glance at the page’s sponsors shows otherwise. 

·         Ustream Broadcasts New Years Eve Worldwide – In case Times Square isn’t your thing (or maybe its “so last year” and you’d prefer to travel to Beijing, instead) Ustream (disclosure: A Zeno Group client) is bringing national ball drop ceremonies to your computer screen this year. 

What innovative NYE campaigns did you see this year?