20 Nov

Getting onto the Social Media wagon

Social Media is a huge factor when it comes to Internet marketing. Without it you just won’t have the edge you need to do the best you can. In the last few years the Social Media revolution has just grown at a pace unknown to man until now, and it will keep growing and expanding in the years to come. Therefore you should get on to the fibre-optic highway as soon as possible if you’re not on it yet; as it will only simplify our understanding of how Social Media functions.

Now there are a few basic ground rules you should follow if you want to make the most of Social Networking. Incorporate these three do’s and don’ts into your strategic plan, and you will surely make a success of it.

Do

1. Start slow: Start out with no more than three spots to post your stuff. The usual choices-  LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter – are great, but after a little research into your industry’s specific needs, you may find some equally viable substitutes for them.

Hint: If you look at Twitter and Facebook, they are the leaders in terms of growth right now, so I would suggest you get on there, just be be in the know of what going on in the world around you.

2. Fill out your profiles and post a recent photo of you or your logo as your avatar. Make sure you give your audience all the information they could need, so that they can decide whether you would be a good connection for them or not.

3. Be there and be social. Now you don’t have to be married to these sites, but I would suggest that you dedicate about 15 minutes a few times a week to them, to network and post new content.

Don’t

1. Fall into the time warp hazard. When you start out, you’ll notice it is easy to get a little addicted to posting and updating your profile, but once the stars fade away and you’ve got this thing mastered, you might feel enslaved by all the replies and effort, and you may doubt whether this was a good idea. This is just where you need to find your comfort zone. If you stay with it, I assure you will get the hang of it.

2. Think you don’t measure up. Now this can be very discouraging to the new guys. Never compare yourself to the success of other networkers, everyone is trying their best, including you, and that’s more than enough! Remember, all networkers specialize in different fields, and have been networking for different lengths of time.

3. Update hastily. The internet isn’t going anywhere. It’s permanent. One rant or rave posted in the heat of irritation or anger can destroy weeks or months of trust and relationship-building. Once you tweet, there’s no going back – you can’t delete a sent tweet. Facebook and others do grant delete power; but even if you’re quick on the delete draw, it may be too late to undo the damage in some places.

Make sure you implement these tips, and you will surely reap the rewards!