We’ve all probably heard the term Web 2.0 before in one fashion or another, but knowing how it can enhance your business’s presence is actually rather important. Back when your parents were growing up, if they were in need of a service, how do you think they went about obtaining it? They probably would call up their friends, neighbors or family to see who they went to. If that didn’t work, they would go to their yellow pages and find a service provider that way, making sure to pick the one with the big ad as that must mean they’re the best.
Now think of how you find a business today for a particular service. Do you even own a phonebook? If you do, it’s probably to balance your table or to serve as a doorstop. Rather, you most likely utilize the internet in one way or another – whether it be through a Google search or asking friends on Facebook – to find a particular service, which is what Web 2.0 is all about. A business must use Web 2.0 tools to gain exposure, so consumers can find you. However, it’s not as simple as writing a Facebook post about how great your business is. You need to engage.
This is where Barry Labov’s blog over at LaBov and Beyond makes good use of the concept of Web 2.0. Barry LaBov has been in the marketing industry for a number of years, and he knows how to get a particular message out there. Through his blog, he focuses on small little musings that have helped him lead his business. He recalls old stories, discusses thoughts that go through his head and illustrates workplace situations that are universal. In all, he has the reader in mind.
This is the keystone to Web 2.0. You must think of the consumer first and consider what they want to read. You’ll want to build an online community of sorts where the reader is an active participant. Therefore, you’ll want to write posts that encourage participation – you’ll want to ask questions and welcome comments and further discussion. You’ll also want to appear authoritative and write in an entertaining fashion. You’ll want people to share your post, and they won’t do so if it’s poorly written or there is nothing of note to share.
LaBov does this with his blog posts, and you should to if you’re looking to be successful in this new work of advertising.