I am a big fan of Facebook and Twitter and count them as the number one effective ways that I market and network with peers in my field. The networks have proven undoubtedly that they are quite successful in connecting with and finding resources for whatever your company’s field of expertise may be.
Although the concept is viral, there are still many companies, large and small, who do not take advantage of the multiple benefits of utilizing a social networking campaign within their media campaigns. There are numerous articles and blogs online that cite the wonderful advantages of using social networking, but until a company actually implements some of these tools and tips, they are simply “ideas” that are waiting to be found.
If your company has the resources, consider delegating the campaign solely to an individual or set of individuals who can concentrate 100% on building a social networking presence online.
They could be responsible for posting blog entries, interacting with others in the industry, answering questions that readers may have or simply researching and finding industry-related news that you can use in your marketing strategy.
Sometimes, it is just as effective to make 1-2 blog posts per week and Tweeting them as opposed to nothing at all. However, building up a viable presence on the social sites will require more than a Twitter post.
I personally have found that companies who interact from a genuine standpoint are usually more successful than those who are not. By that I mean companies who take the time to explain a concept, answer questions directly, respond to comments expeditiously and participate in discussions are more likely to get the attention of their readers than those companies who may make a few random comments on occasion. Readers and social networkers who frequent online networks can quickly tell the difference in the two. Help your company stand out by taking the time to invest in building up a solid networking campaign that readers will come to know and trust.
Once you’ve invested the tools, resources and time in building a social networking presence, be sure to keep it stoked by staying abreast on news and developments that relate to your industry. It’s important for readers to see that your interests and commitment align with theirs and they will eventually come to trust you as a viable source of solid information and knowledge. Your mastery in the social media world is not one that has to be elusive or overwhelming. It’s all a matter of placing yourself in key positions and on important sites to get you and your business noticed. While I cited Facebook and Twitter as two of my favorites, what are your favorites? Do you find that any particular social networking site is more receptive of your business or service than any other?
I am a freelance writer, blogger and professional motivational speaker. I primarily focus on business content, offering my clients strategic marketing strategies for their businesses. I have been an entrepreneur for over 13 years, after having worked extensively in corporate America.
I like Twitter and LinkedIn answers for social networking. Also, local social networking sites like Yelp are excellent for businesses to interact with their customers.
As a technical person I’ve been very slow to engage in the social aspects of social networking.
However, recently I’ve started to use twitter. I’ve also been on linkedin forever, but only today did I look for appropriate groups and start reaching out.
I’m running a blog directory / regional community mashup site. Obviously, everybody that might use my service is already active online — so I guess I’d better get on the ball too.