Social media and social networking isn’t just for Generation Y anymore. With the popularity and growth of networks like LinkedIn and Twitter in older age groups, the world of social media is being increasingly tapped by anyone with an internet connection. This isn’t just limited to individuals, either. All types and sizes of businesses are quickly recognizing the benefits to being connected to their customers through social networks. If you’re business is looking to get in on the trend, here are some basic fundamentals and tips you should know before getting started:
1.Brand Yourself
A common use of social networking is job searching. For those who do this, experts recommend job seekers to create a professional online “brand” so when employers go to look for them, everything is consistent. This advice can be applied to companies and businesses as well. Branding your business is not the same as having a brand name. For business, branding means creating an identifier, and studying how people will perceive you on social networks. One way to do this is having a consistent, professional picture and profile on every site. This also makes you more recognizable to people who use multiple social networks as well. Use clear, uncomplicated language that is understandable by everyone. Not only can a brand be used to increase the perceived value of your products and services, it distinguishes you from the competition.
2.Join the conversation
Searching endlessly for people on every network is time consuming and ineffective. Instead of finding the customers, let them come to you. Join in on conversations that are relevant to you business through groups on LinkedIn and Facebook. Set up an alert on Google or Twitter so you’ll be notified whenever a specified search term is mentioned on the Internet or in a Tweet. On Twitter, follow some experts related to your field; they’ll often send out links to interesting articles and help connect you to other users in your field. The options are plentiful, you just need to know where to look and how to use them.
3.Follow the lead(s)
Social networking provides a platform where everyone congregates. Because of this, communication is easier, faster and more effective. It also provides great opportunities to find leads, which is especially important for sales-based businesses. A common tactic suggested by leading social media experts is for businesses to sponsor a contest or provide special offers through social networks. When users sign up or participate, they are expressing interest in the product and giving you permission to contact them about other offers. This route provides for a large amount of leads; even if they don’t all work out, it’s a good way to get people aware of your business and products.
4.Be Creative
In order to draw traffic, your content should stand out. Break out of the norm and try something new, whether it’s a viral video or creating a character. Keep a blog and get real, honest feedback from users. Adding something newsworthy is also a big plus. The sky’s the limit when it comes to being creative on the internet. Creativity draws people in; when they see something creative, they’re more apt to share it with others, who will then share it with even more people—who may become customers. Make your content a destination and promote it wherever you can. However, beware of over-promoting it – over-promotion turns people off very quickly.
While the task of getting into social networking may seem daunting, it has so many advantages and is a great way to build, develop and maintain customer service and relationships. It also gets people educated and aware of your brand, product or service. When it comes time for selling, less time is spent educating the customer because they’re already familiar with it. Taking the time upfront to build an online brand is something every business owes to itself.
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