My recent keynote presentation at the Ford & Doonan Builders Breakfast was a chance to share my passion for social media and online branding with their clients.

I dove into building a trustworthy online presence. After all, in this digital age, your online presence is your business card.

Embracing UGC: Building Community & Trust

I focused on the power of User-Generated Content (UGC)—which I described as other people’s stuff. It’s essential for building trust and fostering community. Studies show that 92% of consumers trust UGC more than traditional advertising, making it a crucial part of modern branding. I encouraged businesses to actively participate and build relationships that go beyond just collecting customer content.

The Power of Customer Reviews

Customer reviews are everything. I shared that 90% of consumers read reviews before visiting a business. Online reputation management isn’t just about social media but how you respond to feedback. I stressed treating Google like your business card, responding to criticism professionally, and seeing each interaction as a chance to build trust.

My Hot Takes: Keeping It Real

I wrapped up with some practical tips for creating an engaging social media presence:

• Understand Your Audience: Know who you’re speaking to.
• Create a Theme & Stay Consistent: Consistency is key to brand building.
• Avoid Over-Promotion: Keep it fresh with creative, engaging content.
• Design for Sound Off: Make sure your visuals do the talking.
• Focus on Accessibility: Content should be inclusive for all.

It was a pleasure collaborating with Ford & Doonan for this keynote presentation. My goal was simple: helping businesses leverage UGC and manage their reputation effectively. Social media is about more than just platforms; it creates meaningful connections.

Looking for a fresh perspective at your next event? Let’s have a chat!