Have you decided to get involved in social media? Still not sure whether it's right for your business or how to use it? One of the things we talk about in marketing is a Marketing Plan and, by extension, a Social Media Strategy. In other words, before you start doing something, make sure you know what it is you're going to do.

But, waiting until you have a plan might mean not doing anything at all. One of my favorite marketing gurus, Dianna Huff, wrote a great blog about this, "True Confession: I Don't Have a Social Media Strategy". She says, "Strategy, when it comes to social media, is overrated. Strategy makes it sound like the water is deep. Jump into the lake from the diving platform and you'll need to figure out how to reach the shore. You need to know how to swim." She goes on to say that actually the water is pretty shallow and you can just wade in and get your toes wet. In other words, just start doing something with social media and see what happens. It's not really that hard. And, most importantly, by not worrying so much about a strategy, you're going to be more "authentic". The whole point of social media is sharing more about who you are and what your business is about. It's not about being stiff and formal and just writing what you think people want to hear.

So read Dianna's blog and then . . . come on in, the water is just fine. (The photo, by the way, is the beach by the house we're renting this week on Long Beach Island.)

I am part of the generation that followed the "I am woman, I can do it all" mantra. Unfortunately, many women found that all that did was make them tired, unorganized, and always playing catch-up. Recently my favorite Leadership ladies, Angie & Courtney (Leadstar) had a wonderful "thought for the day" on their Facebook page: "Saying 'no' can be difficult because it's admitting that you can't do everything. Take comfort; you can do anything, no one can do everything. Leaders are so successful because they are able to focus and narrow their priorities."

I really love that thought -- you can do anything, but no one can do everything -- keep that in mind as you navigate your way through whatever you need to do.

Are you interested in trying e-mail marketing? I am now a Certified Constant Contact Expert and a Constant Contact Solution Provider. Which means I can help you with your e-mail marketing -- whether it's helping with set-up, writing the content, or doing something more advanced. I can even set up your contact lists, help you choose a template, and develop your e-mail schedule. To learn more, click here.

E-mail marketing is way to stay in front of your customers. Whether it's an e-letter (like this one), notice of a special event or sale, or just a holiday greeting, e-mail marketing should be a part of your marketing package.