What Star Trek and Social Media Marketing Have In Common

I just returned after watching Star Trek and while the film is brilliant and worthy of an entire blog post that talks about its production, script, cinematography and acting, I’m simply blown away with what I learnt from it as a social media enthusiast. Turns out the multi-million grosser has some invaluable insights for us peeps. Interested? Read on:

1. Start from the start

I should hide under the table for this, but this is my first ever Star Trek experience. (Yea, sounds like “I” belong to another planet eh?) And I had no problem enjoying and “getting” the plot. The movie gave me enough background. A smart social media marketing plan would do the same. It will start with educating and informing the client with the basics: define each social media and its nuances, explain what it means for their business and finally, how it can be explored.

2. It takes Scotty, Uhora, Sulu….

The final assault by U.S.S. Enterprise was a combined effort which drew from the characters’ special skills. In short, nothing functions in isolation and a social media plan is no exception. A good plan will take into consideration other offline and online marketing opportunities and techniques as well, such as SEO, email marketing, advertising, PR et al. There is a place for each marketing tool which need consideration into the overall picture.

3. Explore new frontiers

An emerging, evolving space means that there are endless possibilities with what can be done. So just as Star Trek’s U.S.S. enterprise takes off into the unknown to discover new lands and life forms social media marketers have the chance to experiment and get really creative with what they can do. Who would have thought that putting stuff in a blender and ask the seemingly ridiculous question ‘Will it blend?’ would become a roaring success? You won’t know till you step into the unknown.

4. Bridging the communication divide

All of the film’s premise was built around a misunderstanding, a communication issue that resulted in such havoc. If companies honestly introspect, it is often this very problem that separates them from their consumers. Consumers love or hate brands depending on whether they were communicated satisfactorily (and delightfully) or not. Social media allows companies to reach out and connect with their audience in a much more realistic, human and genuine way.

So that’s my take after experiencing a refreshing, creative work of art on a 70mm screen. Your thoughts are welcome. Till next time folks, live long and prosper!

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