The other day I heard someone say that he believes social media represents “the new Rotary Club.” I thought it was a very interesting and provocative hypothesis.
For those who aren’t familiar with Rotary International, it’s a deservedly iconic philanthropic and networking organization that has been a cornerstone of many individual cities’ business communities for decades. Relationships are built at the weekly Rotary events, as well as via the charity activities that the groups sponsor. Those relationships translate into local business getting done.
Today I had the opportunity to speak as the invited guest at the Sevierville Noonday Rotary Club meeting. My topic was how social media strategies can benefit small business owners. I also emphasized how social media tools can help non-profit and networking organizations like local Rotary clubs be more internally productive and communicative outside of the actual meetings.
So does social media represent “the new Rotary Club?” Well, there is no doubt that location-based Twitter clusters, as well as Facebook groups, blogs and many other online tools are creating a new model for just the type of local business-promoting activity that Rotary does so very well. But even with the fantastic job that social media does in building, promoting, and nurturing affinity groups and networks, I don’t think it will ever completely replace face-to-face, local business networking. Instead, done right, social media will complement and enhance the “Rotary experience.”
And as it happens, Rotarians, who are among the savviest business people in America, are realizing this, and are beginning to use online community in all kinds of creative ways.
I really enjoyed meeting with the Sevierville group today, and I appreciated their hospitality. Thanks for the invitation!
