3 Reasons I "Like" REI and Why I Absolutely Love It

Creating the right voice of a company online has become an art. For the first time, companies have to  talk directly to their customers without a using a cheesy sales pitch. Without asking them to buy something, or blab on about a really great deal going on. This traditional marketing approach just doesn’t work anymore and customers have become immune.  

The article written by Aaron Smith, focuses on the reasons for using social media based on adults who use social networking sites such as Facebook, MySpace, LinkedIn and/or Twitter. 50% of social media users said connecting with others with shared hobbies or interests is not a reason they use social media. 35% said it was a minor reason and only 14% said it was a major reason.

So to ease the hesitation of that 50%, I will share with you 3 reasons I follow the popular outdoor gear and apparel store, REI, and why I absolutely love it.

1. They’re posts are funny and inviting.

The voice of REI’s online content is cleaver and consistent. The Facebook posts are written as if the REI brand was real life talking person. It feels like a true REI enthusiast (and probably an experienced editor) is writing the posted NOT a sales person. REI uses Facebook an additional service to their customers by providing a unique perspective and expert advice on outdoor products.

Here are examples of how REI keeps me coming back for more.

      “Give that Like Button a big ol' high five if you've checked your dividend!! We are so stoked to be able to give back to our amazing members!”

 

      “Have you ever taken on a huge physical challenge and not quite reached your intended finish line? How did you respond?”

 

      “Where are you headed out to this weekend? Still undecided? Let our blog post today serve as some inspiration!”

 

2. It’s less intimidating than subscribing to their emails.

If you really like a company but you don’t want to receive the weekly/daily emails some of them send, following them on Facebook is a good alternative. It allows you to decide when you want to be exposed to their brand, which makes for a better user experience and encourages positive thoughts. And you don’t have to keep deleting their messages from your inbox, which is a plus.

Here is a perfect example of an REI Facebook post lets YOU decide how much you want to engage with their company while still being courteous.

      “If you let us into your email inbox once or twice a week on average, we will email you a coupon for 15% off one full-price REI Brand or Novara item (excluding bikes). Sound good? Sign up!”

3. It’s a community of really cool people.

The people following REI on Facebook do some pretty cool things and they like to share it online with REI and the rest of their 386,000 followers.

Again, some awesome examples.

      “Five of us went snowshoeing last night under the full moon at Snoqualmie Pass, it was a great night!”

      “This is my traveling donkey! He has been on two cross country USA road trips, 3 continents and over 10 countries. He is heading to Antarctica, Patagonia and Easter Island this winter.... traveling is more fun with a travel buddy!”

      "Maybe at 60 I can finally hike the Pacific Crest Trail?" Read Part 2: Finally Hiking the John Muir Trail at Age 50.”

      “I wanted to explore the simplicity of a family life so off-the-grid and different than my own... And I was also curious about how Ruedi and his family were coping three years after a tragic avalanche killed a number of the guests he was guiding.”