Harvard University's Nieman Journalism Lab has reported that The New York Times has recently appointed Jennifer Preston to the title's first Social Media Editor. What does this mean? Is The Times finally implementing a strategic plan that they have been working on and are now confident to launch? Or is it a last gasp attempt to find a new life in the fading newspaper business?
Either way, what The Times is doing is sure to not be the last move of its kind. Other historical newspapers that are losing money, The Boston Globe and Chicago Tribune for instance, are sure to follow. Whats more, this type of innovation will not be just seen in the newspaper industry.
Companies across industries, from traditional retailers, restauranters, non-profits, individuals, entertainment venues and even professional service providers that are looking to grow and even survive in these times are starting to see value in, and use, social media.
If social media has value to this wide range of industries and even individuals, why doesn't everyone use it. Time or cost? It has even been said to be unprofessional. More than likely you have had some contact with social media, either using it or hearing about it. The fact of the matter is that when huge companies that have been said will never go away make the transitition to keep up with the times (no pun intended), it means it will be necessary for others. Not all social media is for everyone, and distinguishing the right tools to meet your needs is key.
The point is that social media is no longer just for technology gurus, college students sharing pictures or celebrities trying for some free advertising. Social media is now a professional business tool being used far and wide. If you haven't seen anything from your local eateries, news agencies or even educational institutions, look again.
