March 16, 2010

Social Media is no longer a buzz word for emerging media. Many entrepreneurs, startups, small businesses and mid-sized companies surprisingly have not embraced the ever growing dialogue that exists between potential customers and their brands. If you own a company & have not learned to effectively leverage social interaction to increase accessibility and scale current marketing efforts –

I recommend a fast sprint to catch up and get in the game. It’s never to late.

Before you go overboard letting customers know how great you are it is important to know what social media truly is and what forms to focus on. Generally, social media uses Internet and web-based technologies to transform 1 way conversations into social media dialogues. Social Media is comprised of three components:

• Concept – A blend of Art and Information
• Media – Physical, Electronic or Verbal
• Social Interface – Direct, Community Engagement, Social Viral, Digital Broadcast or Syndication, or other media such as Print

While there are many forms of Social Media communications – 7 to be exact – start with the basics and perfect a content strategy that is easily duplicated and automated across various areas of the social stratosphere. Most importantly small brands should ensure they approach Social Media from a ‘customer centric’ point of view. While your product or service may be great – that is not the point. “I know — what a disappointment!” I always ask my clients the endearing yet fundamental question when they begin mapping out a marketing strategy – “So What?” Customers and potential customers need to know the specific value proposition and how it will benefit their need. The challenging questions will often save companies the most grief in the long-run.

To get started in the next 30 days ensure you have a solid Marketing Plan mapped out to keep you focused and ensure you aren’t wasting valuable time in the wrong form of Social Media. The next 30 days should focus on the primary form of Social Media to enhance communication between your brand and qualified prospects.

Communication
o Create a Blog
o Test Micro-blogging
o Develop a Social Network
o Manage the Social network via Aggregation
o Develop strategic events to engage niche audiences online

Most importantly, enjoy socializing your brand – listen, learn, respond and build relationships. The Marketing Plan should include a solid Social Media Strategy & measurement tactics that will ultimately guide you in learning how to perfect the number one form of Social Media – Communication.

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