Each student expressed different opinions on which sites appeal to them and how companies can engage with them online, but there were a few common themes. Many students don't own a TV or get cable, preferring to watch online video, Hulu, or live-streams. Brands such as Pepsi, Levi's, Virgin America, Target, and Burger King were all mentioned as being involved in interesting online content. They also follow TechCrunch and Mashable. One question touched on the fine line between providing content and being annoying through social media. The students said a schedule of one to three posts a week on sites like Facebook is a good amount.
For those who follow social media daily, a lot of the information discussed was not new. Of course brands should aspire to create the next funny viral video, allow for interaction, and incorporate cause-marketing. And these tech-and-media-savvy students are a small chunk of the population - a fact they admitted themselves. But one comment rings true for college students and the general population: In-person events are still one of the best ways to attract consumers, particularly when free food is involved.
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