"Success Tips!" Newsletter - How to Merge Social Media into Your Marketing Plan

February 1, 2010

Issue #29

Success Tips!

Greetings!

So, you've got business cards, a couple of good fliers, a website, and even a radio spot for your new business, product, or service. But, what about a social media marketing plan?

Social media is a powerful "word-of-mouth" generator that allows you to start conversations, build relationships, and create buzz with customers. Are you maximizing it to the fullest for your business?

Here are a few tips on How to Merge Social Media into your marketing plan;

Do Market Research - Use networking sites like Twitter, Facebook, and Linkedin to issue polls and surveys. You'll be amazed at the amount of feedback you get by simply asking your network. Knowing your market is key to getting your best sales performance. Why not get an understanding for the wants of needs of your market before you launch a marketing campaign? I use Constant Contact for all of my email and survey marketing which you can try free for 60 days.

Want to Learn more about using these social media tools? Read, "Top 3 Social Media Tools for Business"

Create Awareness - Use Facebook to connect with prospects in your area. Create a fan page to share useful information related to your industry, product, or service and you'll generate real fans in no time! Offer special discounts, run contests, and giveaways to increase exposure and get customers talking about you.

Generate a List - One thing about social media is you don't want to enter the space with a "pitch." The best way to utilize it is to "give in order to get." If you consistently give useful information, share advice, etc you will have earned the right to ask for something in return. Why not ask for prospects to join your mailing list? You could buy a list of contacts or you can get your own with pre-qualified prospects who actually want what you have to offer. Need I say more?

If you want to generate real sales with social media check out, "The Used Car Salesman's Guide to Social Media Marketing"

Build a Brand - Don't just own a business, own your unique brand. Leverage it with social media by creating a blog or creating a video series on Youtube. Create compelling content that will meet a need, educate, inspire, or empower someone. By doing so you'll position yourself as an expert and they'll come to you when they're ready to buy.

Want even more tips on building your brand? Read, "How to Use Social Media to Build Your Brand Locally"

The return on investment with social media is tremendous if you play your cards right. The key is to always give more than you ask and you'll get more than you dreamed.

Rod Kirby is an Author, Success Coach, Editor-in-Chief of The Success Center, and the Producer of Inside the Success.

The Success Center is the #1 Christian entrepreneur's "Blog-a-zine" for small business, marketing, social media, and spiritual help. Check out the very best of The Success Center by visiting this page.

Get caught up on what you've missed at The Success Center, below!

The Biggest Marketing Secret - Ever, Finally Revealed