CEO of the Durban Chamber of Commerce, Andrew Layman, tells how the Chamber is embracing social media solutions. The Chamber’s digital marketing partners Immedia are initiating the social spin on communication by implementing live tweeting at Chamber events. The first event to go live will be the Power Connection Lunch with Alec Hogg, (pictured), founder of Moneyweb, who will share his insights for the South African business community.
Says Layman: “It’s no secret that social media has gained increased momentum as a key concept of the digital marketing mix with companies in Southern Africa. Digital media agencies in other parts of the country were quick to implement this wildfire solution to their clients. It is encouraging to note the rapid adoption by many companies of social media to communicate with new and existing clients.
“Social media could be generally defined as the use of free technology tools online to easily share resources, information and conversation. Another defining factor is the creation of communities for better sharing.
Layman continues: “Popular social networking sites include Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Youtube, Foursquare and many others. Businesses are using them to great effect to harness the power of conversation that characterises social media. By tapping into the conversation online, businesses have at their disposal a wealth of trends, market research and a knowledge base that would otherwise cost an arm and leg.
“Social media marketing acts as a complimentary feed into traditional marketing methods. Businesses can interact informally with their consumer base or prospects and actively find out about their likes, dislikes and needs. Social media, by its nature, allows information to be spread instantly. Everything is shared and goes viral. This is great for businesses: a client recommends your brand online which allows his friends or community to see this activity and this gives a brand primary access to a database they did not have before.
“The Durban Chamber is greatly motivated by engaging new technologies and digital communication strategies to offer its members a dynamic and sophisticated view on economic activity and emerging trends. We are working towards developing capacity in order to use social media in aspects of the Chamber’s communication.
“Our digital marketing partners Immedia are initiating the social spin on communication by implementing live tweeting at our events. The first event to go live is the Power Connection Lunch on Wednesday, August 17, with Alec Hogg – founder of Moneyweb, who will share his insights for the South African business community, after recent visits to Davos and Warren Buffett’s Omaha.
“Twitter users can follow the event live by searching for #alechoggDC or following @durban_chamber where tweets from tweeters at the event will appear.”
Useful Info: For further information on this event and the Durban Chamber’s social media integration with events, contact Kwanda Zondo on (031) 335 1000
More Chamber news: See the launch of the iLembe Chamber