So I was perusing some articles looking for something to spark enough inspiration for me to put the pen to paper and write about something that would teach and inspire. Instead, I came across this extremely mind-blowing article on buzzfeed.com. 
Apparently, this story is pretty big now, so I apologize if I’m the last one to board the train, but I was so drawn into the article—and the Facebook posting chain that was included—that I lost myself in utter disbelief and shock. I kept reading… and in between gasps I was able to finish the article. These are my thoughts:
- WHAT did you just do… to your brand?! Your image?! The TV segment was bad enough… but to then add fuel to the fire on Facebook.
- WHY are you managing your own social media on your own?
- WHERE is your PR/Marketing firm? (Clearly you needed one.)
While this story is a pretty extreme example of social media no-nos, and the damage that can be done by mismanaging your *Brand, it is also an example of the power of social media and why it should always be handled with care.
So this is my warning: brand-owner beware! You can be your own worst enemy when it comes to making or breaking your reputation – and your brand! If you do encounter a problem, it is best left to the professionals. And, face it: social media is king! It can break you if you get too emotionally vested or do not fully understand how to implement an effective social media strategy.
A great marketing firm is an important ally to have in your corner as a business owner—don’t underestimate their value.
Oh yes, I have attached said article for your reading enjoyment – http://www.buzzfeed.com/ryanhatesthis/this-is-the-most-epic-brand-meltdown-on-facebook-ever
**Hot off the AMA website, “A brand is a “Name, term, design, symbol, or any other feature that identifies one seller’s good or service as distinct from those of other sellers.” Source: The MASB Common Language Project.
“A brand is a customer experience represented by a collection of images and ideas; often, it refers to a symbol such as a name, logo, slogan, and design scheme. Brand recognition and other reactions are created by the accumulation of experiences with the specific product or service, both directly relating to its use, and through the influence of advertising, design, and media commentary.” (Added definition) “A brand often includes an explicit logo, fonts, color schemes, symbols, sound which may be developed to represent implicit values, ideas, and even personality.” Source: SEMPO
