So great we can open source this discussion right here to determine what a small-to-medium business forum, community, partnership, etc. looks like. Yesterday, I invited several tweeps to join in the creation of this endeavor, and nearly all accepted.
To recap, Neicole Crepeau and I determined the need for a forum, place, community location to address issues of concern pertaining to SMBs. That’s us. I invited (and they graciously accepted) Michelle Quillin, Jon Buscall, Michelle Hellyar, and Jenn Whinnem.
Another questioned the choice of platforms and said “Fail” to Facebook although he agreed it was “easy to set up.” Am hoping Gregg Morris weighs in here to share his expertise for the back end. I believe, Davina Brewer at 3Hats will come forth, too, right?
What never fails to frustrate me is the back-end tech requirements of all things social media. Folks not in the know believe it’s “so easy” to set up a blog and take off to the moon. Or, launch a Facebook page with nary a glance at its design or interactivity; or, set up a SMB forum only on Facebook because the knowledge about other platforms is non-existent (sigh).
As a public relations strategist, I am an idea person through and through. It’s these tech details that kill me (and mark my words right here, that I will master this dark tunnel), and that’s why having varying levels of expertise on board for this is fabulous. Without further ado, let’s collaborate on what this puppy looks like. Please weigh in and please also forgive my lack of plug in for “email comments to me.” (The house is not in order!)
Strategic Plan for “The SMB Forum” or WHATEVER!
Objective
- Create community for SMBs frustrated with new and befuddling rules of engagement for businesses
- Provide forum for collective opinion and determine ability for call to action oriented to issues
- Invite SMBs from all verticals to share among peer groups, collaborate freely while supporting and learning one anothers’ plights
Strategy
- Communicate issues of import to SMBs based on breaking news, state laws, and other items pertaining to general business administration.
- Inform and educate all SMBs about news that affects us regardless of size or industry sector.
- Collaborate with independents, solos and other really small businesses and create a familial community where all questions are respected and all comments delivered in like manner and in good humor.
Audience
- All SMBs who engage online
- Bloggers seeking partners with whom to collaborate
- Business owners seeking suppliers
Tactics
- Assess rules of engagement for group leaders; determine topical interests and purpose for joining
- Name the group!
- Launch the group on a platform that is Facebook, ning, LinkedIn or elsewhere? What is preferred/why? (LinkedIn may be a great place to do this…?)
- Develop some basic rules of engagement: i.e. comments on issues, welcomes to new group members, news articles that pertain to SMBs (many each day re laws and Congress) etc.
OK…your thoughts, please? Thank you!
