CEO’s so often say that Social Media is a waste of time, Richard Branson doesn’t agree.

Mashable recently interviewed  Sir Richard Branson, who talked about why he makes time for Social Media.

How can this be true, after all he has what some call an empire with over 300 business across 30 different countries, and let’s face it all the businesses are very diverse, how and why does Social Media fit into his day.

So many of the CEO’s or senior managers I talk to think that they don’t have time or the inclination to spend on what they often refer to as “time-wasting ideal chatter “ .

Sir Richard Branson is  someone I have always admired, I think he is a thought leader, he is always looking ahead, prepared to take risks and REALLY understands the power of personal branding. He thinks that Virgin has always been a brand that’s about conversation, so he thinks social media is a natural extension of this.  He likes to believe that Virgin wants to ask customers for input on how they can improve their services and offering.

Why I think all CEO’s need to be cognisant of Social Media is it’s the opportunity to talk with listeners and translate those conversations into improving their customer experience? It’s not a chore, but a chance to listen, add real value and a chance to innovate as a business.  I am old enough to remember when companies had to spend a fortune to carry out research, hear their target markets opinions and find out what keep them up at night, now it’s so easy to do using social media.

It’s the chance to listen, to stay ahead of the conversation about your industry and competitors, its shows your customers and staff that you are up to date with the latest technology and the world around you.

Branson is on Twitter , he blogs, is on Facebook and Google Plus. I like his blog, it is brief and open, he is a good storyteller, showing  his personality, and sharing ideas with those who work for him and those who use his brands and product.

Have a good Social Day, make time you and your brand are worth it!