Fred Abaroa

December 5th, 2008 by SEO Audio

Of Twitter: “It’s a tool, fool” says Fred Abaroa, better known to his Tweeps as @CostaVidaFred, the bon vivant who can connect all of lifes little ups and downs with the addictive flavors of Costa Vida, a fresh Tex-Mex restaurant with restaurants in Utah, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado, Idaho, Texas, Oregon and, oh wait… Maine?!

While most local business marketing managers might be happily esconced in radio spots, TV ads and coupons in local news flyers, Fred has helped foster addictiveness and brand recognition through his active use of the social network Twitter.

We talk to him about his thoughts on Twitter, social media and the art of marketing in general.

SEO Audio Voices: A Chat with Costa Vida Fred

http://academyofsocialmedia.com/2009/05/decentralized-content-points-back-to-blog/

May 8th, 2009 | Posted in Blog, Mindset & Strategy |

Sometimes people ask us if Facebook can be the focal point, or foundation, of a social media strategy. My answer? Sometimes, but not typically. Why? For the same reason that Twitter (or other like tools) can’t typically be the foundation either.

A thoughtful blogsite is the best place to tell your story. As Chris Brogan has said, “Today, marketing is about engaging with communities and delivering products and services with stories that spread.” Your blogsite is the place where your story is focused—where you have the opportunity to lead your tribe down a path. Many social media tools are decentralized or evaporative like Twitter, and/or scattered—like Facebook.

The following news story, aired by WCSH-TV in Portland, Maine, may appear to be about Twitter. But as you listen, you’ll see that it’s about centralization too:

I’ve always liked Rich Brooks and his blog. He’s a smart guy.

So, some may ask, “For CostaVida Fred, isn’t Twitter the best way to get to his audience? I mean, how much can be written in a blog about Mexican food?” Yes, using Twitter to get people in quickly during slow times at 10% off is a good idea. In fact, a great idea. But I spent some time on CostaVida Fred’s blogsite, where he does a good job of taking people down a path—illustrating that Twitter messages bring people in now… but the long term play is nurturing brand-loyal customers and evangelists that help spread Fred’s story.

Way to go, @CostaVidaFred. Smart uses of social media that help your business, AND help others as well.

Is your blogsite telling your story? Do the other tools you use point back to the blogsite where you’re focused and centralized? How can you use Fred-type thinking to grow your business?