Social media for government contractors is an art as much as it is a science. The importance of social media is no longer confined to private sector or consumer facing businesses, and it might just help get that government contract you’ve been after.

Social media allows for another channel of communication for businesses to show what they are capable of outside of traditional methods such as case studies and business proposals. It is an avenue to announce that new employee that might make the perfect asset for a government job, or to show off the internal synergy your team has.

Social Media platforms such as LinkedIn also provide a good opportunity to establish your business as a thought leader in your industry. For example, Humphreys and Associates, Inc., has uses their LinkedIn company page to showcase their mastery of Earned Value Management. Establishing your business as a thought leader not only makes your business more reputable, but will lead to more connections as well.

Government agencies are also turning to social media to look for potential contractors as well. Recently NASA  tweeted that they are seeking proposals for commercial robotic Lunar Landers. An active social media presence is helpful in not only presenting the personality of your company, but for connecting with those who could benefit from your services – even if they happen to be government agencies. More and more, government agencies and high ranking officials within those agencies are actively using Google+, Twitter and Facebook to show a more human side.

It is important to point out that social media alone is not enough to help land government contracts – that is where the science comes into play. In order for your social media campaign to be effective, it needs to be a part of a balanced digital and traditional marketing plan that is developed with a unique strategy for your audience.

Caliber Media Group offers social media management as part of our inbound marketing solution, CaliberReach. Call Caliber for a free evaluation of your social media strategy and online presence.