Welz & Weisel Communications Principal Chairs Northern Virginia Technology Council’s Social Media Committee
March 8, 2010
Welz & Weisel Communications Principal Chairs Northern Virginia Technology Council’s Social Media Committee
Newly Formed Committee Provides Ongoing Programs to Educate Local Companies on Initiating and Maximizing Social Media Efforts
To date, the committee has hosted two events. The first event was titled "Social Media & Consumer Protection: Finding a Balance," which provided insights into balancing the open nature of today’s social media tools with the ethical and legal challenges concerning consumer protection and privacy. Panelists included Tim Sparapani, Director of Public Policy at Facebook; Ari Schwartz, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Center for Democracy & Technology; and Pablo Chavez, D.C. Policy Operations for Google.
The committee’s second event was titled "Get on Board with Social Media. Your Competition Is" and provided first hand examples from leading organizations on how they are using social mediato increase brand awareness and sales.The event was moderated by Shashi Bellamkonda, Social Media Swami, Network Solutions LLC and included panelists Brian Dresher, Online Marketing Manager, USATODAY.com; Phil Bronner, Partner, Novak Biddle Venture Partners; Barg Upender, CEO, Mobomo and Amber Harris, Manager, Digital Communications, Discovery Communications.
On April 20, the committee is hosting an event on how social media tools will play a key role in fulfilling the Open Government Directive principles of transparency, participation, and collaboration. In addition to the events, the committee plans to launch an educational webinar series with the first program focused on reputation management set for March 24.
Also just announced, the committee is hosting the first NVTC Social Media awards. While details are still being finalized, the program will include 10 categories: Best use of Facebook, Best use of Twitter, Best use of LinkedIn, Best use of Viral Video, Best Corporate Blog, Best Closed Community, Best Mobile Communications and Best Social Media Integrated Campaign (across more than one social channel). There are also government and non-profit industry awards.
"At Welz & Weisel Communications our team implements truly integrated programs that encompass both traditional and social media strategies and tactics," said Tony Welz, Principal of Welz & Weisel Communications. "It is important that companies understand the value social media tools can bring to building brand and driving sales. At the same time, it is important that they understand the commitment that it takes to make social media programs a success. This committee is enabling Northern Virginia technology executives to share best practices for implementing programs that deliver real business value."
Twitter: @NVTCSMC
About Welz & Weisel Communications
Welz & Weisel Communications is focused on creating proactive, ongoing public relations campaigns that yield measurable results for clients in the business-to-business and business-to-government high-technology marketplaces. The firm helps launch, build and sustain PR programs for both privately-held and publicly-traded companies. The Welz & Weisel Communications team is aggressive, strategic and proactive, ensuring its clients achieve business goals and capture market visibility and market share. To learn more about us visitwww.w2comm.com, Twitter:@W2Comm, Facebook, LinkedIn, blogor call 703-218-3555.