There are way too many social media options for the average small business person to sort out.
And many of us don't have the time or energy to learn each of them and build a strategy for use.
Still, it is critical that you market your business online and putting up a static website ain't gonna cut it.
Make a commitment for the new year to do at least one of these things to market through social media.
Start a blog: Yes, this is a no-brainer and while not every single business needs a blog, I still think it is a great way to get started.
Having a blog on your website does a couple of things.
It gives you a space to update information on a regular basis for your customers.
You can post about new products, specials, etc.
But don't just use this as a commercial advertising space talk about your passion for your biz, share how it has helped other people, be creative and use it to connect with your community.
Build a page on a social networking site.
There are a few to choose from, dependent upon where your target audience is located...
FaceBook, MySpace, Bebo, Linkd In...
these are all possibilities.
But, you may find there are sites that are specific to your niche that would be more effective.
Check out the Social Media Statistics Wiki for demographics for major social media sites.
Use video or pictures to tell your story.
It is becoming more and more affordable to create voice over graphics types of video.
And if you can't afford to buy video, make your own.
Use a site like 12 Seconds to showcase witty video clips or Flickr to post photos.
Video and pictures are a great marketing tool because they create a face for your product or service.
Make sure you link back to your blog or website every time you post to your photo or video accounts helps with search engine results.
Whether you do all three or one of these things you can make a difference in your online presence by taking small steps and building a community around your company.
You will find it is not so difficult once you dip your toe in the water.
And, let me know how you do would love to hear about it!
And many of us don't have the time or energy to learn each of them and build a strategy for use.
Still, it is critical that you market your business online and putting up a static website ain't gonna cut it.
Make a commitment for the new year to do at least one of these things to market through social media.
Start a blog: Yes, this is a no-brainer and while not every single business needs a blog, I still think it is a great way to get started.
Having a blog on your website does a couple of things.
It gives you a space to update information on a regular basis for your customers.
You can post about new products, specials, etc.
But don't just use this as a commercial advertising space talk about your passion for your biz, share how it has helped other people, be creative and use it to connect with your community.
Build a page on a social networking site.
There are a few to choose from, dependent upon where your target audience is located...
FaceBook, MySpace, Bebo, Linkd In...
these are all possibilities.
But, you may find there are sites that are specific to your niche that would be more effective.
Check out the Social Media Statistics Wiki for demographics for major social media sites.
Use video or pictures to tell your story.
It is becoming more and more affordable to create voice over graphics types of video.
And if you can't afford to buy video, make your own.
Use a site like 12 Seconds to showcase witty video clips or Flickr to post photos.
Video and pictures are a great marketing tool because they create a face for your product or service.
Make sure you link back to your blog or website every time you post to your photo or video accounts helps with search engine results.
Whether you do all three or one of these things you can make a difference in your online presence by taking small steps and building a community around your company.
You will find it is not so difficult once you dip your toe in the water.
And, let me know how you do would love to hear about it!