Kroger Uses Social Networks To Enhance Business

Social networking sites allow publics (individuals, families, companies) to see businesses perhaps in a different way than they have in the past. Although less formal than official company websites, these social networking sites are a great compliment to the formal site. These sites are used as a means of enhancing and strengthening the business. Back up for one second though, we have to give Kroger a lot of credit because before the internet was even a twinkle in our little eye The Kroger Co. was an exceptional business. Not only were they achieving great success as a superstore, but they were running full speed against their main competitor: Wal-Mart. So, first it was the internet which obviously blew business up in a big way. Now, it is social networking websites, and these have the potential to expand business just as much.

Kroger uses Facebook and Twitter as their main social media networking sites. The Kroger Co.'s Facebook account includes company information that can also be found on the website. There are a few things that set Facebook apart from the official website. First, publics have the ability to become "fans" of the Facebook page. This enables them to comment on any status and company updates as soon as they are posted. Also, this page allows consumers to stay "in-the-know" about the newest of the new at Kroger. This site was created as a general reference for fans to keep in touch with the company as a whole. However, each fan (probably) shops at a specific store in a particular region, so comments on Kroger’s Facebook page can also be geared towards those certain stores.

Twitter, a social networking site used primarily for updating statuses, is a great way to keep consumer awareness of Kroger news up. The company recently launched a Twitter account called "KrogerDeals

." The Twitter account updates publics including consumers, employees, prospective employees, etc. on what's new and exciting at KroCo.

If I were the PR person for Kroger, I would absolutely be sure to frequently update both the Facebook and Twitter accounts in order to keep all possible publics informed of new things that are going on; new products, promotions, events, etc. I would also create a Linkedin account, because this particular social networking site allows businesses to connect with one another as well as to scope out the competition. This is important because it will allow Kroger to keep in contact with other companies who do business similar to Kroger.

The use of social networking sites is important for a variety of reasons. Mainly, people all over the country use sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Linkedin. So, for instance, if someone has not heard of Kroger before but has any one of these accounts, they can easily stumble upon Kroger's account. And let’s face it; this is a guaranteed love at first sight!