Undeniably, many Japanese companies have weathered the economic doldrums for the last two decades without ever resorting to social media tactics. Many stores and businesses have basically clung onto the leaden tactics of newspaper blurbs, paid advertisements in local papers and shopper weeklies, or just simple word-of-mouth tactics.
But in a world of choice with many online shopping portals and auction sites blooming, the days of social media indifference are numbered. Just this past month, LinkedIn became localized in Japan and, with ongoing education in the virtual grapevine, it will in the next few tears crush the long-held custom of annual recruiting.
The same is true of Facebook, with its varied ways of building rapport with your customer or client base. Companies in the modern world must be prepared to go the extra mile using social media networks to spread the word about their products and services, address customer complaints or concerns, and educate their potential buyers about the reasons to choose their company over others.
Being social and sociable are not optional anymore, but many companies are becoming interested or concerned about how to reach customers where they hang out online.
Significantly, there is anew start-up called the Japan Social Media Manager Association which is trying to catch the social media wave. They plan to launch a social media manager course early next year in Japan. The trainees passing the course will be issued a certification certificate.
Social media in Japan is not a fad. It’s a fact of life. Main Street businesses -with proper education and training – can draw many more customers ready and willing to spend money NOW by using stealthy social media strategies, including cellphone apps with daily promotions.
The golden era social media is dawning. If you are a great talent in social media, I may be able to help you establish your credentials in Japan. Contact me at administrator@successinjapan.com.
Twitter
Facebook