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The newest tool for building your small business web presence is social media. The big three social media sites are Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Of course, new tool means more work. So you can take off on the right foot, keep in mind a few rules of etiquette that will make sure you’re communicating well.
1. Share, Don’t Just Promote
The more you talk about your own products or services, the less others will listen. Regardless of the social space you find yourself in, remember that the best way to be perceived as a leader in your field is to share your thoughts and expertise based on current issues as well as what others in your space are saying. Your simple presence in social media environments will create exposure and build business.
2. Be Yourself, Not Just Your Business
If you’re a Main Street business, people are comfortable with your business if they know about you – the owner. I’m not saying they need to know what you had for breakfast (which you will hear about on Twitter or Facebook), but social media does allow you to share bits of your life and lifestyle. So use social media to create a personal connection with your current customers and future customers.
3. In the End, It’s Networking (on steroids)
Social media is a lot of things, but it is mainly networking for you and me. As you explore social media, you’ll find it similar to a business after hours and online.
Start working toward having spaces online with Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
Once you’re up and running, you can follow me on Twitter here: http://twitter.com/gregorymurray
