Skittles/Mars takes the giant leap into the Social Media arena with a bold new web presence that fully utilizes social media tools such as Twitter, Facebook, Wikipedia, Flickr, YouTube and more.

Don’t be suprised when you visit this edgy new site – if have to second guess whether you’ve landed on the right page or not.  Today when I hit it, it landed on Wikipedia’s definition of Skittles candy flavors.  How cool is that?

They make great use of Social Media tools including a full video library of very edgy new commercials/videos embedded in their new site – along with YouTube.  Here’s just one example called Pinata Man:

Users are given direct access to Skittles related images on Flickr as well, which by the way shows over 17,000 results when you click on the pics link in the skittles navigation.  The Friends link takes users directly to their branded page on Facebook allowing users instant access to their FB profile.  It’s sheer brilliance in my mind.  

What better way to manage your consumer brand than only through Social Media channels.  As an internet marketing professional myself I look for ways to educate my clients on the benefits of jumping into the social media arena now – even if to just dip their toes in – they need to be taking the swimming lessons now so when the relay starts they are ready for the race.  If they don’t get on board now – it will be too late when their competitors realize the importance of social media and get ahead of them in the race.

Click image for Flickr credits.

The areas I’ve had luck with to date are Facebook, LinkedIn and blogging – as far as getting my customers ramped up in Social Media…. I say that to a certain degree.  Getting there is one thing – getting them to use the tools with which I have equipped them is a totally different game.  Blogging is only as great as the effort you put into marketing your blog.  Facebook has a huge audience you can tap in to… if you work your page and develop relationships… The same applies to all Social Media tools.

My clients believe it to be a daunting task to manage all these outlets, but truth be told a structured plan for addressing each social tool can maximize your efforts and minimize the time you spend keeping your social media tools current and active.  Once your customers are on board with it, and using Social Media regularly – they’ll be amazed by the outcome. 

I have established relationships that have helped me in ways I never even thought of when I got going on sites like Twitter and LinkedIn.  I cannot say enough… you just don’t know when you meet someone how you can help them or they you.  Don’t miss out on getting your brands/products in the Social Media game before your competition does.

I’m suddenly craving some Skittles.  :)

And my Twitter friend @peasandbananas just posted a poll – which do you like better?  M&Ms or Skittles?  Vote Now!  

I am getting old… As confirmed by a friend of mine today. I had the perfect idea for a blog post, and from the time I went to bed last night – I cannot remember what it was about. So I’m left with random thoughts which I will share. Random thoughts on Social Media, Careers and more…

Random Thought #1: 24×7 Connectivity is Cool.

Social Media totally cool because I can connect with people all over the world any time of day or night and be mentally stimulated about all things. I can get feedback about a work project or personal thought in a matter of seconds in real time. That’s pretty powerful. I’m not talking teenagers in a chat room, I’m talking professionals with expertise in all areas all looking to share information and insights. Ten years ago it was finding a “30 something” chat room on AOL and weeding through to find someone of value to talk to…. Not so much like that anymore – much easier to find real and valuable connections.

Random Thought #2: People really do connect!

I have made 100+ new friends because I love artichokes. Now that to me is excellent! I have yet to really get to know many of these folks, and fully intend to do so because through something as simple as a food interest, I have made these connections. I don’t know yet what these people can offer me, or I them, but my guess is there is something for each one. I will spend much time reviewing profiles for all new connections and getting to know everyone.

Random Thought #3: New Month’s Resolutions

I decided yesterday: February 1, 2009 that I would be making new resolutions for the month, though actually, they could be “new week’s resolutions” or even “new day’s resolutions”. January was a challenging month for me and I’ve really managed to learn how to live my life ONE DAY AT A TIME. This applies to my career, my personal life and my relationship with God. Today I am resolved to live only for today and make it the best day possible for me and for every person I come into contact with. Remember – smiles are contageous and actions speak louder than words.

Random Thought #4: What is your Dream Job?

Someone asked me on Friday night if I could do any job in the world, what would it be? My answer was simple – I love what I do, and I cannot imagine having a different career than internet marketing. So in conjunction with Random Thought #3 – I am resolved to make each day the most I can at work and provide the best level of service to my clients. I am resolved to find creative solutions to making their online presence the best it can be. I am also resolved to spread the passion for what I do…

Facebook Connections

So I recently created a page on Facebook dedicated to Artichokes and in just a week, I have over 100 followers of this page. At first I felt it was just an experiment to see how many people would find it if I worked it through various channels on Facebook, Twitter and yes – even LinkedIn.

What I’m finding now is that I’m actually connecting with some great people! Every person that has “become a fan” of my page I have requested their friendship on Facebook, and am slowing getting to know some really great people!

What’s more, I’m asking them all how they found the page – some through silly game applications, some through an actual search on FB for “artichokes” – yes people do search on it (I did), and some by seeing posts on others profiles, and a few from Twitter… It has been a good lesson on what tools are in place to gain some awareness in Facebook.

The thought I take away from this – as with Twitter and LinkedIn – the same rule would apply. Making these connections does absolutely no good if you don’t make the effort to exchange information with and get to know your networked connections!

What’s the point of connecting with people if you have nothing share? As on Twitter, share your experiences and expertise, but also share some of yourself on a personal level. Allow people in cyberspace to see that you are real and honest.

Just short post in the wee hours of the morning – but some thoughts I wanted to share.