How useful is social media for the financial and professional sector?

Peter Davies,
RMS PR






Social media is incredibly important for the modern professional. Linked-In is the preferred choice for my clients because it keeps things on a business-like footing and has many useful applications that can assist you with your job. Not having a Linked In profile is like not having a mobile phone number these days.

My colleagues in the PR industry and the marketing directors we report to use Twitter regularly. It’s good for staying in touch with journalists, their queries and for ‘listening to conversations’ about brands and clients. It’s incredibly useful to monitor what’s being said in your industry about the issues you should be an expert on.

Tweeting about relevant subject matter will, over time, establish your reputation in the online space as a ‘thought leader’ in your field. For busy professionals, Twitter is easier and less time intensive than maintaining a ‘proper’ blog. Too many business people start a blog and neglect it. Twitter’s 140-character limit make it accessible for busy people. 

Finally, ignore Facebook. It’s a personal tool and for friends or consumer brands only. Populating your Facebook friends with professional contacts will make soon make you persona non grata. If you’re trying to use it to drum up business and enhance your reputation - you’ve already made your first mistake in social media.