Are you ready to dialogue?

According to the 2009 Cone Consumer New Media Study more than 40% of consumers want to share and discuss information with businesses, brands and marketers. Why? Many believe they can influence 'good deeds' by talking to businesses.

The study found:
• 62% of consumers believe they can influence business decisions
• 25% have told a company about their stance on an issue/subject
• 74% want corporations to join in the 'corporate responsibility' talks
• 47% believe corporations are transparent and honest when talking about issues

Not only do consumers want to talk to businesses about green innovations and other topics but 30% have made purchases based on positive information/reviews and 23% have switched brands based on a corporation's stance.

What type of information is most important?
• 85% say how products are made/what is in products is important
• 83% want additional information other than label, advertisement or packaging

"Consumers are using new media channels to inform purchase decisions. [There] is an opportunity to engage them beyond information-seeking behavior," said Jonathan Yohannan, senior vice president of corporate responsibility at Cone. "[Companies] need to leverage traditional channels to drive people to places where conversations can happen in real-time to enhance reputation, build loyalty and even lead to business innovation."

Tags: 2009 Cone Consumer New Media Study, corporate blog, corporate communication, social marketing, social networks