Web 2.0 has changed the way consumers make purchasing decisions.

With what seems to be an endless stream of information online, any person with Internet access can find virtually any information they need to make an educated decision when doing everything from finding a new hairstylist or lawyer to purchasing a new television or finding a hotel for their next vacation.

In a study conducted by social networking site myYearbook, 81 percent of respondents said they’d received advice from friends and followers relating to a product purchasethrough a social site; 74 percent of those who received such advice found it to be influential in their decision. (Click Z, January 2010)

Web 2.0 brings the element of real-time customer reviews of every product and service on the market.   In addition to static websites where a company focuses on the positives of their product or service, consumers are able to see what other people are saying about their experience with  companies, services, products, vacations, apartments and so on.  Websites such as Amazon and CNET rate and compare similar products. They even let us know where we can make the purchase for the lowest price.

The bottom line:

Companies used to provide consumers with the information they needed to make an educated purchasing decision.  Now, consumers are turning to review sites and recommendations from friends, family and even those contacts they only know through sites like Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin.

Get in the conversation.

Smart companies are looking for the best way to leverage new marketing through social media.  They understand that the general public, clients, customers, and employees currently hold the key to whether or not their company is placed in a good light.

74% said “After interacting with companies or brands via new media, I generally have amore positive impression of the company or brand”. (Consumers Demand Brand Interaction, October 2009)

Whether or not your company has climbed aboard the social media pony by utilizing websites like Twitter, Facebook, Myspace, Linkedin, Amazon, blogs and so on, that does not mean that people are not talking about your company online even right now as you’re reading this.

This is the first time in history that a company’s image is out of the hands of it’s board members and PR firm.  The sooner a company realizes this, the better chance it has to compete under the new rules of marketing.

JSN provides a variety of services to businesses who are looking to take part in the conversation.  We know that it’s a lot to learn, there has to be a strategy, the daily maintenance takes time, and you need someone you can trust to represent your brand online.  Yes, we know.  In fact, we live, eat and breathe new technology, innovative marketing and social media for business.

Building a successful marketing campaign for your business is our passion.  We only succeed when you do.