Black Friday and Social Media

I never paid much attention to Black Friday. The thought of going to a shopping mall on the busiest day of the year just holds no interest for me. This year, though, I was all about Black Friday. But not at the mall ... on Twitter.

Social media took front and center stage, right next to the great American Shopping Mall, on Black Friday this year. Facebook pages, Twitter feeds, and mobile apps all promoted special Black Friday deals, shopping organizers, order updates, and even waiting times.

A few standouts include:
- Apple online store that announced a one day online shopping event
- Toys 'R Us sneak peak to Black Friday deals available only to fans and followers
- Yahoo shopping app that allows price comparisons while in store

All meant to make the shopping experience on Black Friday that much more special and customized for loyal shoppers. In advance of cyber-Monday! Adding value beyond just price....isn't that what good marketing is all about?

I remember a few years back when e-commerce changed the face of the retail experience forever. Now, social media is the next big influence on shopping and commerce, "e" or otherwise. And it's still in its infancy. Imagine next year!

What's your experience? Jim.