The concept of shows began with bazaars in the Fourth Century.  They figured out that it would be a lot easier for everyone to come to one place to buy what they need.  Ever since, people have known that face-to-face interaction, and the social relationships those contacts create, are the most effective way to do business.

When Facebook burst on the scene a few years ago, I thought it was a bit ironic that it did not involve looking anyone in the face. But it, and other social media sites, have created a huge new – and very popular - way to market products.  The premise is that if Sally likes your product, she will let others in her on-line network know about it, and those friends will in-turn do the same.

What’s interesting is that the latest research proves what we instinctively know.  That REAL face time with REAL people continues to far and away be the best way to market.  And that those real interactions create real word-of-mouth awareness.

The research shows that fewer than 1% of facebook users who are ‘fans’ of a brand page have any interaction with that page.  On the other hand, according to the story you can read at this LINK,  “90% of word-of-mouth conversations about brands take place offline, primarily face-to-face . . . anywhere people congregate. These conversations bring with them greater credibility, a greater desire to share with others, and a great likelihood to purchase the products being discussed than conversations that take place online.” 

So it's probably a good idea to keep your (real) face out there.

David J Zimmerman
Southern Shows Inc.