He had me at the Budget Host Saga Motel…….

He had my interest and my attention, that is, from his first funny – yet oh-so real – example of the power of social media.   I have been on the “paid media” side of advertising for 25+ years, so the new – or should I say, NOW Revolution of social media is a different animal to me – you don’t pay to be in it – but it pays to be in it.

On April 20th, Jay Baer, Social Media Consultant and co-author of the book The NOW Revolution, gave a compelling presentation at AdFarm St. Louis on the growing impact of social media and how it is changing the fabric of how businesses operate. I dabble in social media on a personal standpoint, but Jay really gave excellent real-world examples of how important it is for anyone/everyone to be aware of the social noise about their brand, and how four simple words like I’m Sorry and Thank You – can often far outweigh a 2000 GRP TV buy when it comes to customer loyalty and retention!

AdFarmers, clients and friends gathered in St. Louis to hear Jay Baer.

It’s valuable to me, as a media director, that AdFarm has partnered with such a knowledgeable social media expert to help us understand the new medium for AdFarm’s brand, as well as for each one of our clients.  Jay’s presentation was excellent, and I cannot wait to get started on his book.  The information he provided validated what I have always thought as a media director – if there were only one medium that people used, there would only be one – but we all know that is not the case.  Consumers – including the ag sector – utilize a mix of media –therefore, it is more important than ever to use a mix of media and to integrate all of our outward communications efforts — including our social presence.

Angie Skochdopole and Dan Kirkpatrick

Thank you, Jay, and thank you, AdFarm, for teaching an old dog some new tricks – and, the reception at our GORGEOUS new St. Louis office location was beautifully done –with excellent company, food and wine!

Angie Skochdopole is Senior Director of Media Services for AdFarm. With roots to a Centennial corn/soybean farm in Central Illinois, Angie combines her experience on the farm with 25+ years of agri-media knowledge to deliver high-level, insightful media solutions.