Digital Media Success - Proceed with Caution

This is my last post for my Strategic Communications and Emerging Media Class. I have learned so much throughout the course of this last nine weeks. Our communication world has changed in regards to traditional media venues to now more electronic, digital and social media outlets.

In one of the articles I read during this class “Net Effect: The Past, Present & Future Impact of our Networks” by the FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler made a great point that we as communicators have a great privilege of being in the hinge moment of history to wrestle with the future of our networks and their effects on our commerce and culture. The concept of the changing world of communications is so overwhelming. However, the responsibility of this change is also just as enormous. There are so many facets to how we approach communications in today’s world. It is up to us as strategic communicators to be aware of all the pros and cons of our media channels.

Through social media and social networking sites (SNS), anyone has the opportunity to be a reporter and/or communicator. This unfortunately waters down the important stories and causes great margins for errors. It is our job to ensure that we continue to produce quality communications and not get pulled into the haste of getting the story out there without regard of ensuring the source and accuracy of information. Do not let these sites ruin the reputation of you or your company due to quick release. You should allow these sites to build your reputation by making them trusted and accurate. Give your readers or customers a reason to come back.

While there are risks involved in the new digital world, there is also a great deal of opportunity. As I stated before, the internet allows anyone with access to be a communicator. This allows for many opportunities for small business, start-up freelancers, and even beginner bloggers who want to get their name out there and build a reputation. The advantages of advertising a new business when you have a limited budget can be instrumental to your company. It also allows for many to be engaging and utilize untapped resources through crowdsourcing. This is a great way to get ideas, gain patrons and even get the word out about your business.

Always use the digital world with caution and reserve. As easy as it is to put your stamp out there, it is just as easy for someone to tear down your reputation. Build a strategy and not just a webpage or social media page. Make sure that your account for mishaps which can and will occur. And, always be prepared to answer the hard questions. Knowing your public and the capabilities of what you have at your fingertips can make or break your business and/or personal brand. Always be on guard and responsive and you will be successful in the digital world.