The Fear and Fall of Credit Union Social Media

 

Once again, another big shout of to Janine McBee for her thoughts about the rise and fall of social media for credit unions.  Janine states:

“For those of us who are visual and like to communicate with pictures, check out "The woulda-been coulda-been social media choke-out" and cruise on through the comments.

Sadly, the picture does reflect reality or should I say lay out challenges for creative, energetic and passionate folks to venture off on "the road not taken", bringing your world into a new and exciting reality.

Bring others along the journey by sharing how social media tools has benefited your credit union, helped you in your professional journey or just stay in touch with friends and family.”

I know a lot of credit unions are struggling with this model on a daily basis.  The question is… why?  We (in the social media world) see the benefits of how all these great Web 2.0 tools and social media applications can help credit union’s connect and build relationships with members.

We are still the early adoption phase with these principals.  I mean, some credit unions still have web sites that look like crap.  A bit harsh… yes.  However, these same credit unions would be ashamed if there members walked into a branch with paint peeling off the walls and water leaking from the roof.

One big reason for the resistance of some of these social media strategies is fear. 

• Fear of members- What will happen if we allow our members to comment on our web site?  What if they leave a negative comment. 

• Fear of change - We’ve done things one way for 50 years.  There is no need for this stuff.

• Fear of the unknown – Why do we need this stuff… it’s what kids do.

However, I see a light on the horizon showing a bright future.  The light is education.  Opening people’s eyes by educating them about the power of social media and how it can be used to help build relationships with members and even bridge generation gaps. 

Our credit union blog is dedicated to education through innovation, communication and collaboration.  We have posted and will be posting more videos from two great Texas Credit Union League conferences. Janine also recommends “Love and Learn”… got any food?

Shout back and let us know how you are educating credit union leaders to help them understand the power of Web 2.0 and social media to connect and build relationships with members.