Social Media at Work: How Networking Tools Propel Organizational Performance

Today's emerging networking technologiessuch as wikis, blogs, and social networking technologiesare dramatically changing the way we build professional relationships and work collaboratively. The organizational and business impact of this social media is significant, particularly in our increasingly complex and fiercely competitive climate. But many companies and executives are ill prepared to harness these technologies for strategic advantage. In Social Media at Work, the authors, organizational development experts at Oracle Corporation, offer down-to-earth insights to help executives leverage the power of social media to build more effective and agile organizations, help their employees get more done faster, and improve leadership developmentall while improving their bottom line. Drawing from their practical experiences at Oracle and case studies of such innovative companies as NetApp, Cisco, the American Red Cross, and Genentech, the authors provide proven recommendations for implementing social media to: Build high performing teams Foster innovative cultures Accelerate organizational learning Lead change Strengthen internal and external relationships Gain competitive advantage In addition, the authors offer suggestions for how to overcome or avoid costly mistakes when implementing social media at work. Indeed, technology-enabled networking tools are transforming the entire domain of human and work relationships. If organizations decide to support, design and co-create formal social media strategies at work they will increase the value of organizational knowledge and enhance their chances of thriving for years to come.