Social Media Cooperation

How does the Prisoners' Dilemma apply to the social media world?

When engaging in social media, people often find themselves in an interesting paradox. They are usually willing to interact if they are incentivized, but if there is no reward, it can be harder to start a conversation.

Should a Facebook friend keep providing favors to another friend who never reciprocates?

When consumers engage on social media, there may not be an immediate return on investment for a company. However, social media engagement can help increase a brand's short-term equity, it can bring a brand to the forefront of customer's minds and it can increase a brand's long-term image. 

Why would cooperation between a business and their customers be so important?Cooperation between a business and its customers is important because it allows for open and honest communication. Social media opens the door for two-way communication. It allows consumers to talk to companies and it allows companies to listen. Doing this can help prevent crises around the product or organization.

How can you promote cooperation on social media?I think letting your clients know you are listening to them is the best way to encourage cooperation on social media. Companies should take advantage of the feedback they are getting from their customers. By responding to complaints and allowing positive discussion, companies are showing they are open to cooperating on social media.

When should a person cooperate and when should they be selfish?

Companies should strive for cooperation as often as possible. If companies decide to be "selfish," customers could see this behavior as being closed-off and not open to transparent communication.