Advances in technology undoubtedly lead to changes in the way we do business. Here’s a primer on Web 2.0 technology and how it may benefit your agency.

Have you seen that little box on a website that says, “Find us on Facebook?” Or thought to inform your clients on natural disaster claims right after a large storm, but didn’t have a fast way to get that information out? Or noticed recruiters using sites such as LinkedIn to search for perspective employees? Regardless, Web 2.0 technologies provide a way to reach a wider variety of clientele than ever possible before.

Recruiting talent
With no charge for job seekers or employers to use sites such as LinkedIn®, utilizing this technology offers users an online business card and resume combined. Because of this, studies show that career coaches are suggesting job seekers join these sites to network with possible employers by expanding their online presence. By being able to tap into a wider range of job posting sites, this also opens the door for agencies to inevitably reach many more perspective employees.

The increased number of employers tapping into social networking sites to search for perspective employees has undoubtedly caused a substantial rise in the number of job seekers utilizing the technology as well. This has also allowed job seekers to narrow career searches by area of interest and join conversations in real-time to develop networking relationships – all online. As an employer, tapping into this market brings recruitment to a new level, and could possibly help you hire that perfect candidate.

Client relations
Today, the Web is more than a place to search for information and stay up-to-date. The Internet has become an interactive link used across professions and even age groups. Used to connect millions of people around the world, it might be beneficial to integrate this technology to help reach out and create relationships with prospects. Or even use it as a way to retain clients.

• Posting a video advertising your company to a social networking site such as YouTube and offering a link from your corporate Web site expands your Web presence.
• Twittering can be used to inform clients of claims updates.
• Uploading plan information or an agency newsletter to your personal lines clients Facebook® pages keeps them connected like never before.
• Creating a group via LinkedIn helps you to take advantage of vital new business contacts.

Marketing
Using social networking sites to increase awareness of your expertise or agency specialty is proactive, but using it as a sales initiative can be looked down upon. So, the trick is to position yourself or the agency as an expert or valued resource.

One way to do this is through blogging. Blogging on a corporate Web site or establishing a personal blog through a service such as blogger.com allows you to communicate in a more personal and casual way. Plus, readers can subscribe to your blog and refer to this information any time – day or night. Don’t forget to add your blog Web address to your business card.

Today’s consumers are turning to the Web to connect and find services more than ever before. A Web presence on social networking sites inevitably reaches more people than without the use of this technology. There is no doubt that all of these relatively new technologies are a sign of the evolving and ever-changing world of the Internet. Does that mean a new way of doing business at your agency?

© 2011 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.