Darden Restaurants definitely utilizes social networking. Darden has a Facebook account, a Twitter account, and a LinkedIn account. Social networking is super important because it gets out a message from the brand and can be used as a strong marketing tool.
I’ve searched the internet and the Darden website and I can’t seem to find a microblog or blog for them. Darden does not utilize blogs, which I feel like is a poor decision on their public relations department. I think a blog would really be beneficial to the consumers because they can talk among themselves and discuss issues related to Darden.
Because Darden has the three main social networking accounts, it makes it easier for them to photo and video share. Yet, they don’t do it. The whole purpose of these websites are to exercise a sense of community among its members. Yet, in my opinion, their communications and public relations departments are lacking.
I believe that by Darden’s lack of social networking tools, this creates a sense of distance between Darden and its consumers. Social networking was created to keep people more informed and more in touch with others. If this tool is not used this creates a lack of communication and a form of distance between consumer and brand.
Justine, I agree with the points you made in your post, especially the "lack of social networking tools, this creates a sense of distance between Darden and its consumers." Dose your Restaurant "Darden" have any reviews on food publications sites like urbanspoon?
ReplyDeleteThe best thing about the blogs we are doing is learning about all of the companies. Who knew that Darden was behind these restaurants. As for as the "best company to work for", that goes right in line regarding what I've heard about the individual restaurants before your blog enlightened me to the fact that they are all under one umbrella. A visit to the website reveals a corporate hierarchy that is one of the most diverse I ever seen. Most everyone (male, female, several ethnicities) is represented. Very nice, Thanks!
ReplyDeleteGood job of making this post mostly your thoughts and your critique about their online presence (or lack thereof).
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