Everyone is talking about Social Media and if they can use it to grow their business. The short answer is yes, you can grow your business by building your reputation using social media. Here are my five hints for getting started.
1. Take a webinar, watch a podcast or attend an in-person seminar. Type a search into Google on anything you want to learn. You can find free or low cost ways to learn from those who do it every day and get familiar with the options.
2. Pick one or two sites to start with. Each one is a little different and will connect with different audiences. Here are the three big ones:
LinkedIn - for individual networking, joining groups and discussions and finding prospects. If you are a business owner who wants to expand your network, this is for you.
Facebook - profiles often used for personal use and "Pages" for businesses. If your customers will want to be a "fan", this is for you.
Twitter - microblogging. That means you can't say anything too long. If you have thoughts throughout the day, this is for you. (Doesn't everyone?)
3. Develop a strategy. You need to determine what you want to accomplish with social media to get the most out of the technologies.
4. Limit your time. It's true that you can spend all day on these sites, connecting with people and reading interesting stuff, but if you have other tasks on your to do list, limit your time on social media.
5. Dive in. There is no such thing as a social media guru. Social media is for everyone. That's the point. It's all about making real connections and having conversations. The gurus have only had more practice.
Take the first step. Click below to connect with me on LinkedIn and follow me on Twitter. I look forward to being social!
I know you have heard of blogs. You've even read a few. The question is are you reading them consistently? Do you have an easy way to keep up on what is happening in your industry? Do you know what others are saying about your brand?
Plant Your Beans Today for Years of Growth
