WriteBusiness.net Online Blog

2010 is being called the “Year of the content” and all indications say Social Media will be even bigger than it was in 2009.  

 

If you are already using social media sites, it’s time to rev them up a bit, but if you haven’t started using social media, it’s time you got started.  You can’t afford to be left behind or miss out on this revolutionary new marketing tool to help establish your credibility and trust, build profitable relationships, and become an expert in your area of expertise while increasing your online visibility!

 

Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and You Tube are considered the 4 top social media sites, but there are also many others.  Plus as mentioned earlier, your blog…the hub of your social media program.

 

Here are a few Social Networking “Ground Rules” to help get you started or help further your journey:

 

1. Social Media/Networking requires “active engagement”:  You can “talk” with your followers on these site.  It opens doors to contacts you may not have had the opportunity to connect with using traditional marketing.  Here is where you start to connect and build relationships.

 

2. Join several of the Social Networks, but only focus your time on 3 possibly 4: You don’t want to spread yourself too thin.  Again, social media can be quite distracting and overwhelming at times unless you focus your efforts and focus your time.

 

3. Choose your friends selectively and strategically:  It’s the quality of the group not the quantity. 

 

4.  Build out your profiles completely: In addition to your business accomplishments, make sure you include something personal in your social media profiles, after all these are “social” networking sites.  I end mine with “Mom of 3″.  If on LinkedIn, make sure you fill out your “Summary” portion.  It’s your “front page” opportunity!

 

5.  Avoid agressive marketing tactics:  Social media networking sites are for building relationships, not for making sales.  The consumer is in control.  Relationships first…business second!

 

6. Establish a Routine:  Create a routine and stick with it.  It needs to be what you feel comfortable with, but at the same time, you need to go “outside the box”.  Blog 2-3 times a week, read others blogs in your niche and comment on them, write articles, Tweet and post status updates on Facebook about your articles, blog posts, and other useful information, add quotes, and engage and comment on Twitter and Facebook. 

 

7.  Consistently add value and great content:  Share great content and your expertise.  Let people know you are there to help, ask what problem are the having that you can help solve.  Let them know you not only have their solution, you are their solution!  Your name is the one you want them to think of when they need your services or product.

 

8.  Above all, be professional, personable, and genuine:  Transparency and authenticity- A strategic key: Whatever is done must be done with quality! 

 

Summary:  Don’t forget WHY you are Social Networking in the first place.  You are in business, remember, you have something to offer.  As noted social media can be distracting and overwhelming.  Remember your goals and your objectives.  Stick to your game plan. 

 

Remember:  You are developing profitable relationships.  Everything you do should have a strategic intent.