As part of its ongoing battle for viewers with Univision, the nation’s No. 2 network Telemundo Communications Group Inc. today announced the launch of a new strategic social media unit, Social@Telemundo that aims to help the network gain and retain fans online. The announcement was made by Peter Blacker, Executive Vice President of Digital Media and Emerging Businesses and Jacqueline Hernández, Chief Operating Officer of Telemundo.
“As we see Hispanic numbers shift not only in growth but in social interactivity, we continue to lead in innovation and building communities. By leveraging the power of social media with our ability to create original programming, we are able to create a dialogue amongst our “viewsers,” which is increasingly attractive to our advertisers. Additionally, our bilingual approach allows the full spectrum of U.S. Hispanics to enjoy their unique identity and relationships with our content,” said Hernández.
“U.S. Hispanics are incredibly active consumers of social media and are 1.5 times more likely then the General Market to be active in this space. Over the past 12 months, Telemundo has experienced over 700% growth of its Facebook page and 500% of its Twitter account,” added Blacker. “By combining the power of Social Media with our access to Telemundo Studios & Talent we are able to connect our audiences and advertisers in innovative and personalized ways.”
The new department will be led by Borja Perez, Vice President, Digital Media and Integrated Solutions, who will work in close collaboration with Telemundo’s Studios and Network Sales, as well as the programming, news and sports divisions.
SOCIAL@TELEMUNDO will focus on delivering its fans across Facebook & Twitter interactive experiences tied to TV programming. With dedicated Social Media resources tied to each of Telemundo’s shows and novelas the Social@Telemundo aims to take the entire TV viewing process to a more engaging level. Building of the success of its Interactive Broadband Series “Telemundo Live” and Mobile social initiatives Telemundo plans to expand its focus on sharing more access to its Studios, Shows and Talent in Spanish and English.