So This is What You Look Like!  A cool thing is happening through sites like blogging service Xanga, review site Yelp, and Twitter. Some of their faithful users have started attending meet-ups, where folks who interact online and live in the same geographic area can actually meet—in person! What a concept.
Now, here's the really good news: These frothy public rendezvous-points open up plenty of room for brands to join the fun, ingratiate themselves, and encourage a few WOM-worthy memories.
Some ways to invite yourself to the party:
Sponsor a Yelp Elite event. A few times a month in major cities, Yelp hosts free events for its top reviewers—enthusiastic young people who love getting together and trying new things. Advice: Don't hard-sell; just let 'em sample. Yelp's elite is generous with its praise, but can also scald if pushed too hard.
Start a Facebook Group. This'll enable you to keep in touch with your fan base and tell them about local events you're hosting in their area. Advice: Use its RSVP features for events you choose to broadcast.
Hijack a Tweetup. Twitter users are all about what's going on in real-time, and one of the things they love doing is hosting tweetups—local meetings among community members. Advice: Throw your own, or piggyback on one. (Just make sure you're a good fit.)
The Po!nt: Put your best face forward—the real one. Even for Generation Social Media, there's nothing quite like a real-life encounter.
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