Social media schooling

15/07/10 posted by Annie

The importance of social networking for businesses in this day and age is one which has become accepted as a reality - even if for many, it doesn't exactly count as "hard work". Because everyone's on Facebook or has a Twitter account, it's easy to dismiss the real skill involved when someone makes it big. However despite all the myths, success through the social media really does take skill and perseverance.

Perhaps the biggest tip, as says Starbucks Product Manager Brad Nelson, is to “have someone else say it.” If you find out that other people have picked up your brand and have good things to say, it proves marketing is working. Other people's testimonials or quotes are more convincing than making bold statements by yourself. If you come across a positive comment by someone else, use it! Or, as Nelson would say - "find something to retweet everyday".

Additionally, remember to leave your ego behind. Through social media activity, your brand beocomes more accessible than ever to your customers. However, as the social media is such an ego-driven, informal world, it's easy to forget your settings - and it's also easy for customers to take things personally. For these reasons, be extra careful with all your online interactions - avoid using sarcasm that might be misconstrued, and don't make any rash responses - even if it's important to answer someone's query asap.

Find out which types of social networking will work best for your niche or industry. You can't just join any group and expect stardom to follow - you must first understand how your current market functions and which social networks they are likely to use most. Also consider the functions of each network and think about which ones are important for your marketing goals.

As most brands these days are involved in social media marketing, it's also extremely important that you never stop challenging your possible strategies. Don't stop brainstorming how you can be different to other brands, or what might make people stop and pay attention. It might be an activity you conduct on a social network, or it might be something noteworthy on your website which you can drive people to through social networking.

Lastly, consistency is key. If you start something, see it through. With everyone sending out tweets and wallposts, your message can get buried very quickly. By contributing regularly or even daily, you make sure your messsage stays on top and in people's thoughts.