Right to reply: MPs should embark on social networking with their eyes wide open

In my view, MPs have so far failed to fully embrace the growing phenomenon of social media. With research suggesting that only 23 per cent are actively promoting their presence on social networks and even though some MPs have taken the leap into social media they are still not using it effectively as a tool to encourage dialogue with their constituents.  

It is understandable that MPs would be worried about the risks involved by using these new technologies; however the benefits can be endless. You just need to take a look at Barack Obama’s presidential campaign and the way that he embraced social media. Even after becoming president he continues to regularly update his Twitter page and engage in discussions with the public on social networking forums. This is a great example of a political figure embracing social media fully and reaping the benefits. 

When embarking on social media MPs will have both different but similar issues to brands. The more high profile the MP, the more brand like they are. When people feel passionately about an issue they tend to get personal. This is hard to do with a brand but an easier task with a public figure like an MP. Because of this a higher percentage of the submissions an MP receives are likely to be negative. This is where the need for a stringent moderation process comes into play. 

I would advise an MP, when setting up a social media initiative, to seek help from a professional agency, expect that there will be negative comments appearing but to go ahead and give it a go anyway with their eyes wide open. 

By Rob Marcus

Director

Chat Moderators

www.chatmoderators.com