Reviews of Books by Euan Semple

16

APR

Book Review: Organizations Don't Tweet, People Do by Euan Semple

16 APR 2012 | Posted in business strategy, communities of practice, online communities, social media | Author Alex McLachlan | 2 Comments

Organizations Don't Tweet, People Do: A Manager's Guide to the Social Web

by Euan Semple

Euan Semple pioneered social media to the BBC and over the last few years has been a leading exponent and blogger on the advantages of social media.

His recently published book Organizations Don't Tweet, People Do: A Manager's Guide to the Social Web distils his guidance on why and how social media is a "force for good" that should be widely used.

At a high level, the book addresses:

• Why should you as an individual use social media? What is in it for you?
• How to get started; overcoming your fears. There are lots of useful tips to help people start blogging.
• How to convince you boss or organisation that it is something you should be doing. Euan provides lots of good ammunition for people wanting to convince their bosses of the benefits.
• How to tackle any problems that do occur, taking a very practical approach.

The book also set out the wider context - that in reality there is no option but to engage in social media as your competitors already are and your customers expect it. In other words, that traditional "broadcast" marketing is dead and social engagement and online conversations are replacing it.

He recommends an incremental approach [very much in tune with our philosophy at IndigoBlue] - start with something small that is achievable and evaluate the results.

The book is structured as 45 short pithy chapters, which makes it an easily digestible read. Perfect for reading on the train. The chapters have 4-6 pages with key point summaries at the end. My favourite chapter titles are "Unleash Your Trojan Mice" and "Don’t Feed the Trolls".

There is a significant focus on large organisations as you might expect from Euan Semple's background at the BBC and advising organisations including NATO. Having said that, there is also considerable value for people in smaller companies.

I recommend the book to anyone thinking about taking part in social media and to managers who want to know what to do about social media in their department or organisation.