10. Invest in Social MediaDuring his remarks, Alan declared, “Social media is the future.” (Some of us might add, “Social media is also the ‘now.’”) Expressing his sensitivity to the power of social media, he joked that he would be taking care in his remarks as he was aware that many in attendance would be twittering during his talk.
Ford’s prowess and investment in social media is legendary. Each automobile model get’s its own Twitter page. Facebook, Flickr, YouTube, and blogs are all part of the Ford sales and customer service workforce.
Lesson Number 10 is important to me, but the other lessons here are no less compelling. The message here is reinforced by Ford's recent economic success (and highlighted by Toyota's self-destructive behavior).