There is value to use social media. Research from Ballihoo found that 63 percent of consumers who search local businesses online are more likely to use businesses with information on social media sites.
Personally, I have found social media both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it is an inexpensive way to get exposure and connect with prospects and customers, but on the other hand, it’s can be a huge time commitment. That is, if you let it.
The good news is there are a lot of different ways to use social media and thank goodness, it is not recommended to use them all. Most media experts agree the three social media sources that generate the most business leads, positive brand exposure, and customer contact are LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter. Your business is unique and will require some due diligence on determining which is right for your marketing strategy.
Honestly, my focus this year has been with Facebook. My goal in 2015 is to post consistently onto my Scrivener Solutions business page. There are tools and tricks I use so that it doesn’t consume a large chunk of my time.
Although I don’t post a great deal onto LinkedIn, I feel that everyone should take the time and build a good profile. Think of it as your online resume. Be sure it is up-to-date and has a good profile photo.
Don’t be fooled, people are Googling you.
Take the time to review and correct your profile.
Be sure to put your best foot forward, online.
As for Twitter, so far I’ve just dabbled in it. I plan on tackling it later.
It’s important to have a realistic view of social media. You can’t simply set something up and watch the sales stream in – which explains the disappointment of those who say they aren’t receiving a return on their investment. Social media marketing should be considered a “return on relationship,” which takes time. Your time and commitment will result in an increase in revenue through your customer’s trust and loyalty.
Remember, social media is SOCIAL. If you set out to only “sell” in your posts, you are going to turn people off.
As with any task you manage in your business, you must have an overall goal and direction with your social media efforts. Sometimes the task is well worth delegating.