HOW TO: Create your own Company Social Network

drwinn2010 — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 03:38:07 +0000

Are you tired of hearing about Twitter this Facebook that YouTube whatever? There is so much talk about social media right now. Most people are just trying to figure out what it is, why do it, and how will it benefit them to join the conversation. It’s not just the public talking; it’s employees who are talking too. They’re talking about their experiences while they’re at work! Hate, love, sucks, are common sentiments that fly tweet after tweet. These updates/tweets are signs telling us that staff members don’t feel as though they have a place to talk, vent, or express how they feel about their role in the organization.

How can a company create social space for coworkers? Is it possible to create a place where employees feel as though they have a voice that will be heard? Is it possible to cultivate an environment where frank discussions can take place without turning into total chaos? Yes.

One company that has ventured out in internal social networking waters is Bestbuy. Bestbuy has an internal website where employees can login and talk about things that make work better or worse. It’s called BlueNation. The success of BlueNation is that it is supported by senior management and provides space for voices of the 1000s of BestBuy employees across the country. BestBuy understands that people want to feel connected to the success of something larger than themselves.

Is it possible for a small business with less than 50 employees to have the same kind of web 2.0 internal communications without spending $250,000? Yes, the tools are emerging! Yammer is a tool that is available for as little as $5 per month per user. Here are a few screen shots to give you an idea of what Yammer can do to improve your company’s communication, interaction, and efficiency.

Social Community for Business

Yammer is a simple way for employees to connect and share by posting messages. As employee participation grows, Yammer becomes a corporate social network, discussion board, and knowledge base all rolled into one easy-to-use interface.

Create and Organizational Chart

Social Community for Businesses Yammer

Organizational Chart

Social Community for Small Businesses

Create Discussion Boards

Social Community for Small Businesses

Expandable Applications

Social Community for Small Businesses

For more information on Yammer visit their website for free download

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HOW TO: Create your own Company Social Network