Engineering Social Media for the Construction Industry

Recently my publisher asked me if I would create a new blog about the success I've had marketing my new book. But the reason behind the book's success right out of the gate isn't very complicated. It can be spelled out in two words: social media.

The media experts are now telling us that almost 80% of the globe's workforce is now using the Internet to perform some or much of their job. Engineers, architects and contractors are among them. Many are using such on-line services as LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook to connect with target audiences and to personalize their marketing efforts. Interactive engineering information sites like the CR4 blog at www.Globalspec.com are not only providing critical industry resources for firms, they are also providing a peer forum for engineers all around the world to discuss and debate building and design topics ranging from commercial lighting schematics to sustainable energy alternatives. No longer is it necessary to hop a plane for a conference to get an idea of cutting edge construction tech. Now, all you have to do is log onto your computer, choose between your favorite article, blog, podcast or video.

According to Brian Zeve, managing director for Microsoft Professional Services Industry, "Engineering firms can take advantage of social computing tools for knowledge management, expertise sharing, and information retention…Web-based collaboration through wikis, blogs, tagging, and other content management tools can provide firms with a whole new way of architecting knowledge and enabling input and expertise to bubble-up within the firm."

The good thing about social networking is that the pool of professional users is getting larger. It's also proving one of the most cost-effective tools ever invented for projecting your firm's mission, philosophy and product. Nowhere else can you identify your specific target audience so quickly than on the world wide web.

As an architect, engineer or contractor, how are you utilizing social media opportunities to increase business at your firm?

The preceding article is a "sneak peek" from Building & Design, a newsletter from GlobalSpec. To stay up-to-date and informed on industry trends, products, and technologies, subscribe to Building & Design today.