Meet Naveen Krishnamurthy (@naveenk22), CEO of RIVA Solutions (@riva_solutions) and head egghead of the SoMeGo (@gowithsomego) social media division. Krishnamurthy interviewed with WashingtonExec about the social media atmosphere in D.C., the pitfalls of effort without strategy, and the dynamic world of social media. Our interview with this power networker, entrepreneur, and technological visionary puts a new spin on the relevance of social media to business today.
WashingtonExec: Tell us about SoMeGo.
Naveen Krishnamurthy: We provide Social Media consultation services for businesses solving problems that lack a solution blueprint today. Social Media is a marketing medium that if planned correctively can give businesses an edge in the competitive market conditions we face today. We’re not a company that’s theorizing with surveys and studies; we’re currently getting clients results in real-time and learning how to truly “engage” with customers through creative marketing + technical methods. We make EVERY effort to create creative campaigns for our clients to connect with their customers (B2B or B2C). Technically we can build a social media network, leverage existing social media APIs to develop customer social solutions, develop mobile applications and integrate a brand across all social media tools. From a marketing perspective we aspire to push the envelope with creativity to make a personal connection to create a collaborative environment for customers.
WashingtonExec: Why is social media so important to businesses in the D.C. area?
Naveen Krishnamurthy: D.C. is a major business hub, and competition is brutal. Having an interconnected personal network online is a crucial resource for businesses. Relationships are built and business deals are made daily on tools like LinkedIn, where you can connect directly with professionals in your field. You can also get expert advice instantly. Social Media provides better clarity and insight on development through online communities and other resources. It’s essential to intertwine your branding across all online mediums, and strategize for each social media tool.
WashingtonExec: What are some common mistakes that businesses make when they market themselves through social media?
Naveen Krishnamurthy: Many businesses begin social media marketing without a plan or strategy. Because they aren’t familiar with the ins and outs of the various social media tools that are available and have little strategic vision, it’s impossible to get results that they want.
Many clients put in the initial effort to create their accounts or set up profiles, but effective social media marketing is an ongoing process. To successfully market a business, consistent and creative engagement with the online community is crucial.
You need to dive in, not dip a toe to test the waters (i.e. have your nephew setup and administer your accounts). In order to boost sales and revenue, you should brand across all online mediums. Social media is not a sprint; it’s a marathon where pacing is key and consistency is vital.
WashingtonExec: What is the best piece of advice that you’ve ever received?
Naveen Krishnamurthy: I believe in the saying that you should “Surround yourself with people smarter than you.” In the case of SoMeGo most of the smarter folks around me are fantastically young! I’ve also been told that a business owner is “the person most likely to impede growth of a company.” So I try to reduce meeting time and let the experts “do” what they “do”.
WashingtonExec: What is something most people don’t know about you?
Naveen Krishnamurthy: Well, I’m a D.C. native. In college I was also a DC nightlife promoter for longer than I’d like to admit. Out of college I managed to start a networking organization out of my personal address book of about 300 people and grow it in 3 years to 4,000 people. I am constantly pursuing social business endeavors, including an investment club for like-minded individuals to invest in real estate, securities, and business ventures. I enjoy creating active communities of people with similar interests. Hope to see you at the next SoMeGo tweetup!