Communication and collaboration across boundaries using technology

The Social Age brings with it a new approach to communication and collaboration across boundaries using technology. As with any new technology, there are great benefits and plenty of challenges as well. One of the advantages for businesses is the ease of interacting with a large audience very quickly. But this also provides the temptation to react when negative things are written and posted about the company. In Chapter 8 you read about Coca-Cola's social media guidelines. One of the company's guidelines is to avoid the temptation to react in defense of the company in social media spaces. However, not all companies have such policies, especially smaller ones. Use Strayer's library or the Internet to search for an example of when someone that represented a company or was known to be affiliated with a company reacted to something negative posted about the company. In the discussion, describe the scenario and what happened as a result. If you were able to recreate this situation, what would you do differently? Why? Is there ever an instance where you should defend a company you work for? What if it is a company you own? Explain. Be sure to respond to at least one of your classmates' posts.

Sample Solution

   

Unfortunately, I don't have access to the internet or Strayer's library to search for specific examples. However, I can guide you in finding one and help you analyze it based on the prompt.

Finding an Example:

  • News Sites: Search for news articles about "company social media backlash" or "negative customer interaction on social media."
  • Social Media Platforms: Look for trending topics or hashtags related to brands facing criticism online.
  • Case Studies: Search for marketing or communication case studies on social media crisis management.

Analyzing the Example:

Once you find a suitable example, consider the following:

  1. Describe the scenario: Briefly explain what happened, who was involved, and the nature of the negativity.
  2. What happened as a result? Did the company representative's reaction escalate the situation? Did it resolve it effectively? What were the consequences for the company and the individual?
  3. Recreating the situation: If you could change the company representative's actions, what would you do differently? Why would this approach be better?
  4. Defending the company: When is it, if ever, appropriate to defend your company online? Consider factors like the severity of the criticism, the potential impact on the company's reputation, and your specific role and authority.
  5. Owning the company: As a business owner, your approach might differ.

Full Answer Section

   

Responding to Classmates:

  • Choose a classmate's post with a different example than yours.
  • Briefly summarize their chosen scenario and key points.
  • Offer your perspective on their analysis, considering:
    • Do you agree with their assessment of the situation and the proposed alternative actions?
    • Can you add insights from your own example or research?
    • Can you offer additional thoughts on the complexities of defending a company online, especially for employees versus owners?

By engaging in this discussion, you'll gain valuable insights into real-world situations, explore different perspectives, and develop your own informed approach to navigating online negativity directed towards companies.

Remember, responsible and strategic communication is crucial in the social age. By learning from others' experiences and considering the potential consequences, you can contribute to building a more positive and productive online environment for businesses and consumers alike.

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