3 reasons why CEO should be on social media

Many companies have already realized that social networks are a very powerful communication channel that can strengthen relationships with existing clients and attract new customers. It is an effective tool that shouldn't be ignored. It is not good only for the companies themselves, but also for CEOs. Why?

At the end of 2016, Brian Chesky - Airbnb's CEO - spent about one hour on Twitter. He asked the simple question to the user: "If Uber could bring anything new in 2017, what should it be?" and actively communicated with them:
 

Brian has received many interesting ideas - add cleaning services or the possibility of booking and delivering meals. Twitter users rated it as a perfect opportunity to present their ideas, but what was more important to them - they felt they were listening.

1. Improving leadership skills

At the beginning of 2017, CNBC drew up a study confirming the importance of social networks in the life and career. They examined the difference in leadership skills among 250 candidates we assessed for CEO positions and how those skills correlated to the candidate's activity on social media. The study found that those candidates who were active on social media are: 

• 89% better at empowering others

• 52% stronger at compelling communication

• 46% more influential

• 36% better at cultivating networks

• 19% more passionate for results

• 16% better at making decisions

2. Source of unique information

Elon Musk - CEO and Product Architect at Tesla - is a perfect example of how to engage and become an icon on Twitter. He does not take this social network as a self-presentation platform - it reflects its ideas on a changing world.
 

Elon publishes news about company that have not been yet officially published. They share their personal thoughts, engage in appeals, and much more. He is a person who is a source of unique information for people, and thanks to his good reputation, he is also in the eyes of people as a "guarantee" for his products and the whole of Tesla.

3. Be there for customers 

Marc Benioff – Salesforce CEO – explained, for the Business Insider, why he likes to be a heavy social media user: "The future of communicating with customers rests in engaging with them through every possible channel: phone, e-mail, chat, Web and social networks. Customers are discussing a company's products and brand in real time. Companies need to join the conversation."

Customers are happy to share their opinions and talk about ideas they find revolutionary. Sometimes they are able to look at your product or service from a different angle and find something to improve it all.