AdNectar launches branded virtual goods on Twitter, LiveJournal

"By adding these two top publishers, AdNectar now powers massive cross-platform social media campaigns for brands to engage their customers and increase purchase intent," said Nir Eyal, CEO of AdNectar.

Still unsure about branded virtual goods? Here is how it works: the brand attaches a message to a 'good' which can be sent via Twitter, Facebook or LiveJournal. A social networker then sends the 'good' to friends in their contact list. Think of it as 'cyber-chocolate' - the good isn't physically in the hand of the consumer but the consumer becomes engaged with the brand because it is a gift from a friend. Once Consumer #1 decides what to send, a direct message with the good is received by Consumer #2. They then click on the message URL which is linked to the item. The item is also 'tweeted' to the sender profile. The virtual goods can be sent and received by any friend-members and can quickly go viral throughout the social space.

"Sending virtual goods is now mainstream, so adding branded ones from AdNectar was natural. It provides more choice and relevant experiences for our users," said Anjelika Petrochenko , Business Development Director, LiveJournal.

Branded virtual goods are one of the fastest growing avenues on the Web. Although many virtual goods, such as drinks of Facebook or even sauces on Twitter are free, the sending of goods is a huge boost to brand recognition and future intent to purchase. Branded virtual goods are high-engagement impressions because the goods are shared and sent to friends, family and even co-workers throughout the social space.

Plus, branded virtual goods can include links back to rich media pages, fanpages and even ecommerce hubs where purchases can be made.

Tags: AdNectar, branded virtual goods, Facebook, LiveJournal, social ads, social marketing, Twitter, viral ads, viral marketing, virtual advertising, virtual goods