When someone says “thank you” that’s the end of the discussion. Well, usually a “you’re welcome” is followed, but not everyone employs manners these days. However, all this common-sense advice about social media is irritating me. And Mark Evans, who inspired this post with “Can We Stop The Social Media Bull$#!% Already?” (great post Mark!)
One of my biggest pet peeves about using social media is the “thank you” recommendations. Thank your customers. If you need social media in order to do that then your company has bigger problems to take care of. Get off of Twitter and Facebook now. RIGHT NOW!
“Corvida, what would you recommend in addition to thank you?” Nothing because a “thank you” isn’t where you should start. You’re the business! I’d like to see more companies with “you’re welcome” replies. That’s a response that’s highly unlikely to come from the customer and says a lot more to passive readers than a thank you. You’re welcome means you’ve successfully answered or solved something for your customers.
Alternative Thank You’s on Twitter
If you notice a tweet or blog or whatever it may be promoting your products in services, ask that person questions about it. I’ve been tweeting about my new Sony Internet TV (courtesy of Intel and more about it later) and not once have I received a reply from Sony. Granted, I’m not the only one tweeting about Sony products, it was a great opportunity for Sony to send some links my away about the products answering the following:
- Who else has been talking about it?
- Any recent blog posts for first time Internet TV users?
- Any online tips or tutorials for how to work this thing?
- What’s coming soon?
Customer Service That Goes The Extra Mile
What was missing was the element of customer service that I would’ve gotten at the Best Buy store. They would’ve thrown a website out there. They would’ve shared a few quick tips or even given a tutorial on one of the in-store demos. This is how companies and businesses within social media need to think. If you’re company is as big as Sony’s then tweet some links every now and again for everyone with your product instead of just one person (I admit, I like the personal attention).
Stop minding your manners and mind your customers. I can only self-motivate myself to keep using your product for so long. Pull your weight after the purchase!
