Big brother marketers…can they be good for you?

Last week, I was interviewed for an NBC affiliate story that aired yesterday about how marketers are collecting data on consumers via social networks to offer deals. (If you watch the video, please excuse the EXTREME close-ups…I was super glad that I wore my HD make-up!)

During the interview, I mentioned that this trend presents both opportunities and obstacles for consumers. However, it’s important to note that the concept of collecting consumer data is not new (you know this if you use a reward card such as the Giant Eagle Advantage card).

Regarding opportunities, marketers are looking to get their brand and products in front of key influencers – people who are well connected, tend to be early adopters and who serve as an information resource to their contacts. If you fit that profile and love getting offers before anyone else, you’re in luck these days.

In terms of obstacles, privacy concerns is one of the biggest issues. So, aggressively managing your privacy settings on social networks such as Facebook and Twitter is paramount if you don’t want Big Brother Marketer looking over your shoulder at your friends list, your personal information and your status updates.

Because more companies are “listening” via social networks, one can argue that customer service will improve as well. For example, some airlines are helping with traveling snafus by letting their customers make direct appeals via the companies’ Twitter accounts.

So, what side of the fence do you fall on? Send me offers or stay away?

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