Social media has become part of our everyday lives — in business as well as personally. For some of us, it has been easy to embrace. For others, it has been a real challenge to learn how to use and take advantage of the benefits. We have some tips and tools listed below that may be of assistance in understanding the use, especially in our professional lives.
“Social media is a great way to build bridges with customers and prospects. But you have to first respect them and then trust them. But do not expect them to do your work for you”
- MaryLou Roberts, Marketing Wisdom for 2010.
Do you know who the people are that are active in Social Media?
Here are some statistics for 2009:
Half of online adults now belong to social networks like Facebook and LinkedIn, a 46% growth rate year over year. In fact, there has been a 175% growth in Facebook users who are women over 55.
How does it all fit together:
- Blogs, Search Engine Optimization for general interest.
- Email Newsletters for nurturing and deepening the relationship.
- Email Promotion for benefits and closing the sale.
- Testimonials for feedback and referrals.
Whatever media you use (Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, etc), ensure that what you are doing is worthy of sharing:
- Must be trustworthy.
- Be sure your groups have a common interest.
- The value you create is simple and obvious.
- There is a way to easily share.
- Offer rewards and incentives.
