Beyond metrics

Rex Lee has a great post about five things that make social media worthwhile even if they don't show up in any metrics you might be able to come up with. He says, "it's not just about the percentage of people that actively participate". Here's my version of his five points:

1) People like to be asked for their input. Even if they don't have any right now.
2) Those who will/do participate will be self- motivated, which is what you are looking for.
3) You can cast a much wider net to find answers.
4) It's an opportunity for leaders to really get involved and get to know their members, even if it's just a few of those members.
5) The conversation is not time- or location-bound. You don't need everyone talking about a subject to be in a room at the same time - it can keep going over time, and benefit others way beyond the first few participants.

I'll see if we can come up with lots more at the Idea Swap tomorrow.