There’s a lot of talk on how using social media can change the way organisations, businesses, not-for-profits etc communicate with their customers. But let’s not forget that it can also change the way organisations work/communicate internally as well. If you’re currently considering proposing the integration of social media into your organisation’s communication activities then you’ll need to address these ‘existing work practices’.
Workloads are already at their maximum and some people see new things as ‘additional work’ rather than working differently, so unless you can outline a specific solution to a practical problem you’ll be advocating the use of collaborative/social media tools to an empty stadium!
Currently, however, many organisational cultures aren’t adept to operating within a collaborative/sharing environment. One reason might be that some individuals are hesitant in sharing their knowledge for the benefit of the organisation through fear that they wont be needed anymore. They operate within ‘barriers’ – because it feels safe! So if you sense that this may be the case it may pay you to start the ‘discussion’ elsewhere or engage with those individuals that are interested in building a collaborative knowledge base.
I’ve noticed though that people who were initially ‘hesitant’ generally become advocates after they discover a piece of information on a website that will help them to complete a task, carry out a project quicker or more efficiently. They then see the true value in social media and feel more relaxed in contributing their knowledge.
Social media and collaboration tools deliver a plethora of benefits to work groups and teams. You will have challenges to overcome – both mental and political – but nothing worthwhile ever comes easy! But when the collaborative minds begin to understand the endless possibilities that social media offers you can propose other areas where the organisation can also benefit – customer service perhaps…?
Does the above sound familiar? How are you overcoming these challenges?
Related posts:
- Social media collaboration, integration and Adrian Mole aged 13 and 3/4s
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