Measure Twitter Influence with Klout

My influence score is 7, or so says Klout.

Klout says it measures influence across the social web. To sign up, you enter your twitter ID, so your Klout score is based on your impact there.

Klout collects data about the content you create, how people interact with that content and the size and composition of your network. The Klout Score ranges from 1-100 and represents a person’s overall influence.

Social Media Approaches to Model

I have been on the lookout for social media role models, and so far two organizations have made it to my short list.

Kodak

Kodak’s social media approach is lots of education, followed by a sensible list of rules. The social media policy (PDF) is a great primer on the value of social media and how to use it. The company focuses on being transparent, and sets simple boundaries for employees to follow.

US Army

I am looking for more role models to share. Let me know your favorites.

Reader Reviews: Fear Not

Recent data indicates it is time to embrace rather than fear online reviews.

A recent RatePoint survey found that of the 30 percent of small business retailers who had integrated product reviews into their Web site, 43 percent said reviews had resulted in more sales. And 28 percent said reviews had resulted in more traffic. A RatePoint study in July also found that reviews were six times more likely to impact a business positively than negatively.

A recent Wall Street Journal article points out that while a stellar review is ideal, detailed criticism has unique benefits. Said one businessman: “I see these sites [and reviewers] as providing a free type of market research,” he says. “They are in a unique position to tell us not only how we’re doing, but also how we can improve the business.”

 Some of the most respected review sites are:

• Yelp
• CitySearch
• UrbanSpoon
• Yahoo Local
• MenuPages

Consumer reviews are powerful. Your website should at the least link to respected review sites. Even better, integrate the reviews for all visitors to see.