The corporate gems are often forgotten

Recently, I have been reading up on corporate blogs and it refreshed some thoughts pertaining to recent discussions that corporate blogs are dead. It’s not surprising that the big names like Direct2Dell, Coca Cola Conversation or GMblog are often touted as successful examples. You’ll see them being quoted everywhere by other professionals.

Here’s the problem, connecting with other professionals isn’t quite the same as connecting with consumers. The view that I am looking from, shows how desperately social media experts are promoting each other. For a second, nothing seems abnormal. The irony though, the advocates are frequently showcasing corporate blogs that hardly connects with consumers.


On my end, I have been reading Dreamhost’s blog throughout my one year with them even though I hadn’t participate in any conversations. It has always been great to be able to put Dreamhost’s blog by the side of others. Why? The connection and participation is a far cry from any of those big names.

The famous corporate blogs do have their fair share of readers. Not all though. Much like how some put it, corporate blogging requires consistency and passion. When was the last time you stepped into a corporate blog and left almost immediately? I have been “forced” into taking corporate blogs with a pinch of salt, since many of them are taking it up merely because it is being advocated.

Dreamhost’s blog looked almost like coming from another world, and that’s precisely what kept me reading. Surprisingly, none of the social media experts has actually talked alot about the consistent engagement on this blog. The amount of regular participants (yes, you spot regular faces if you run through the comments) will send some big brands with corporate blogs red-eyed. How good exactly is Dreamhost’s blog?

Little corporate speak. While some big brands are cashing in on marketing their products on blogs, Dreamhost is mainly about updating customers. If you’re facing problems with your webhosting account, you can almost be sure the problem and solution will, at some point, be talked about in the blog. That’s on top of their superb technical support.

Connecting with customers. The blog isn’t solely talking about Dreamhost services. Occasionally, you get to read reviews of gadgets and also casual sharing of what’s going on behind the scene in Dreamhost’s new office. Don’t be too surprised to be reading about the earthquake in LA at this point, this is something that Dreamhost’s customers can relate to. Not some gabbarish stuffs that are suitable only in board rooms.

Blogging style. Call them boys you may, but their wits in writing will keep you yearning for more. When Dreamhost cares for their customers, the customers will care for Dreamhost too. (Read the comments in the earthquake post) This concoction is a potent one. Corporate people can be fun too, so let your hair down in Dreamhost’s blog. Not forgetting, the blog is one of the methods Dreamhost rallied for support from customers to join their green movement.

Customers driven. While most other corporate blogs are often praised by other professionals such as PR, marketing or analysts, Dreamhost’s blog is chosen by the customers. Last year, Dreamhost grabbed the Blogger’s Choice Awards. This year in 2008, Dreamhost has been nominated again in the same category. Given any day, I would take customers’ votes more seriously.

It has always been puzzling why Dreamhost’s blog has seldom been mentioned alongside other big brands. Or maybe Dreamhost is in a world of their own, but surely a better one than the rest. The employees behind the blog probably have set an unspoken benchmark for the world, if I’m allowed to boast Dreamhost for a while.

I’m also glad to spread some words of a new addition in Dreamhost’s website. Employees profiles are now available on the site. It’s one of the most valuable changes they have adopted this year, if their swift responses isn’t enough for you. You’re no longer dealing with a corporate entity, you’re dealing with REAL PEOPLE. Are there little corporate blogs that are worth mentioning? Or have we not dug deep enough for the Web 2.0 blood diamonds?

Do I believe in the boyish visuals though? Of course not, but sure that’s another humor coming from the team.

Additional Note: Since I have completed my one year hosting with Dreamhost without much disasters, I am confident enough to create a promo code if you would like to join me in green hosting. I hadn’t done this previously, I ought to pay my gratitude to the team.

With the promo code, you can sign up for a one-time discount of USD$25/mth when you opt for the monthly payment plan. For all other payment plans (one full year and above), you are entitled to USD$50 discount. I am sorry that this is only applicable to new customers and a one-time discount only.

The promo code is “EdLovesYou“. Alternatively, you can click the little banner on the sidebar and it should automatically insert the promo code where it’s supposed to be.

By Ed | August 4, 2008

Filed Under Blogging, Social Media

 


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