While social media experts and consultants may tell you to “crush it” , become a “trust agent” or harness the power of the “groundswell” they generally underestimate  the time, investment, and strategy that goes into effective social media marketing, PR, and branding.

With an ample time investment, a targeted strategy, and fresh and relevant content, your chance at social media ROI is great.

However, If your company is not winning with social media, I want you to ask yourself one question: Has everyone in your company bought into the idea of being open, transparent, honest and– wait for it, social?

Unless you  are already a household name, the best way to get something out of social media is to invest in it. Put in the time, put in the effort, and, eventually, the return will come. So go ahead, be a social company. Your patience, time, and energy will pay off, I promise.

Here are examples for you skeptics.