Jones Soda, Helio, Apple Arriving on the Social Network Scene

Branding on social networks like MySpace and Facebook is much more than flashing banners and pop-up windows. Savvy companies are coming up with creative and elaborate ways to reach out and actively engage Gen Y consumers.

Product profiles are popping up all over MySpace. Starbucks, Apple iPod and Bud Light’s resident dare devil, Ted Ferguson, all have their own pages. Helio, a new mobile brand, has already added over 200,000 friends! Its profile takes it even further with attempt at viral marketing, offering Helio-branded buddy icons, wallpaper, flash candy and Helio stickers.

Shawn Gold, senior vice president of marketing at MySpace, said, “That is one of the benefits of marketing in a network culture – if you hit it right you take care of the efficiencies in a viral community.”

Companies on Facebook must develop more creative ways to reach an audience, as Facebook doesn’t allow company-branded web pages. Instead, they are setting up and sponsoring groups. Companies entice members to join by offering product discounts, contests or free content. Being a member of Chase +1, Chase Bank credit cards’ group, can get you into Rev. Run’s House or out to Laguna Beach with Kristin Cavallari.

According to eMarketer, advertisers spent over $350 million on social networks in 2006, by 2010, that number is expected to exceed $2 billion.

Check out this article from Wired News to learn more.