Some businesses are still trying to understand how to use social media. According to Mashable, if businesses want to reach their market, they need to focus on building relationships, going beyond the dollar amount of return on investment. Rather, “return on relationship” is the value. Joe Albert, owner and photographer, at J. Albert Studios gets this. He knows how to social market – be genuine.
Capturing the moment and sharing emotion
“It’s about helping those who are in need,” said Albert. “If something comes to my attention, I act on it.”
Albert is naturally a good-hearted person. Recently, he visited a nursing home for a photo shoot. While at the home, Albert met a young woman who was taking care of her husband with brain cancer. He asked her if she wanted a portrait of her with her husband. She responded by saying she didn’t have any money, and Albert replied by saying it was on him. The woman’s husband was overjoyed.
Albert wrote about the story on his blog. Many community members enjoy Albert’s blog because of stories like this; it’s something that can create an emotional connection.
“People respond if they don’t hear something. They like to see the pictures and read what I do,” said Albert. “They say I encourage and motivate them.”
Supporting the community
Facebook is a common social media tool for Albert. He uses it to display the pictures he takes around town. He said that he likes to help local businesses by sharing pictures of the food he orders and the happiness that’s going on around him.
“It helps them (businesses) out and shows what I can do, too,” Albert said.
Most of the people who follow Albert are clients and community members. So it appears that Albert is reaching his market. He is a natural at connecting with his audience, because he cares about who he’s connecting with in-person and online. These actions are related to The Go-Giver, a book geared towards helping businesses be successful. It’s about shifting the focus from getting to giving. Many businesses can learn from Albert by focusing on the relationships, thus increasing client loyalty and their image.
“Social media is a big thing for me, “ said Albert. “ Even though I have a lot going on, I think it’s important to stay involved.”
Stay connected with Albert on Facebook by liking his page.
Are you a business on Facebook? Share how you use it to stay connected with your market.
