It cannot be denied any longer - it is important for every company to understand and actively manage the role that social media plays for businesses today. As a logistics services company social media is every bit as important to you as it is for the large consumer brands we all read about every day. Recognize it or not, your company is a brand and social media is a vital tool for developing and protecting that brand.
Twitter is NOT just a way for famous people to broadcast what they had for breakfast, it is a way to listen and engage customers. The opportunities in the world of social media for logistics companies are limitless. Using Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and some of the other social media services will support your efforts in the areas of sales, customer service, and marketing.
I am barely scratching the surface with this list, but here are some examples of how a logistics company can use social media:
Read industry blogs (like EasyLogisticsManagement) and search on Twitter for what people in the Supply Chain and Logistics markets are talking about. Watch how people are being creative with their approach to using social media which will help inspire new ideas for yourself.
Use Twitter and Facebook to engage customers and keep your name in front of them. Answer questions and make suggestions without an in your face sales pitch. Be helpful and the customers will think of you when they need you.
People "tweet" and use social media outlets when they are not happy with service so if people are talking about your company, you want to know about it and be able to react.
Participate in Social Networking Sites (like www.logipi.com or www.LinkedIn.com) and supply chain forums to establish yourself as an expert in the space. These sites allow you to showcase yourself as a subject matter expert.