ASK ALAN: Don’t Let Social Media Leave You Behind
The growing use of social media is caused by a combination of factors. Today’s staggering number of choices, diverse marketplace and availability of technology are a few. Since both consumers and businesses benefit from participation in social media, I thought it would be helpful to see an overview of where social media is heading so you don’t get left behind.
Ten Best Practices for Your Business
Importance of a website
Like it or not, brands are visible on social media whether or not you participate. If a brand doesn’t have a presence, consumers will still look for, and talk about them. Today, it is imperative for a business to have a website and interact with others online.
Encourage customers to share their experiences
95% of consumers are using the internet. For your business to be successful, 4 and 5-star reviews, coupons and relevance are essential. They encourage people to try your products and share their experiences.
The explosion of mobile
Everything online should be equally available on mobile, tablets and desktops. Why? Because the growing trend to mobile is expected to go on for years. Since social media is everywhere, be sure to share loads of information about what you’re doing.
Your home page is a social network
People want to use a “home page” to talk to others. Brands need to find ways to
make themselves meaningful in those conversations.
Your presence on Facebook and LinkedIn is imperative
With a billion+ users, Facebook is the dominant force on the internet. And, LinkedIn is the big player for businesses. Like them or not, you must be a player on their court. Make certain that you maintain a positive presence on those sites. And, keep your website, Facebook page and LinkedIn profile filled with relevant and changing content about your product or service.L
Create and implement dynamic campaigns
Campaigns are getting more dynamic. They are spanning from offline to actionable social channels. What turns people on is a company that can provide solutions to their problems and challenges. Sharing your knowledge creates a strong comfort level and wins business.
Multi-channel buyers spend more
With the huge volume of internet users, social media should be integrated with your overall marketing. This approach is important to get the most value out of your activities. Research shows that multi-channel buyers spend more.
Stay above the noise
While engaging customers is a challenge, your business will stand out if your content is relevant and encourages dialog.
You only need profiles on one or two networks
It’s pointless to have dozens of profiles on different social networks. People will flock to those networks with the most users. Currently they are Facebook and LinkedIn.
“Likes”—The most cost-effective form of advertising
I’ve consistently found the most cost-effective form of advertising is to “like” a business or a person’s post on social media. Why? Because “advertising” is about making impressions. You can literally make tens of thousands of impressions by simply clicking “like.” Every time that’s done, an impression of you or your business is generated. That impression is shared with your connections, and re-shared, with your connection’s connections, all over the internet. Think about it. It’s free!
Alan Adler is an Executive Coach, Business Consultant & Speaker. He’s worked for Westinghouse Broadcasting, as a producer/director and with senior management at AT&T, as a corporate spokesperson. Additionally, Alan has been an entrepreneur, creating and growing his own business, Alan Adler & Associates. As a result, he knows management, media and marketing. Alan specializes in helping entrepreneurs through prominent corporations, improve profitability. He lives in Huntersville, NC with his wife Mindy. They have two grown children, two adorable grandchildren, and a rescue dog named Bentley. Additionally, Alan has written two books to help businesses solve problems. The titles are: “Getting the Fish to Swim to YOU & Keeping Them in YOUR Boat” and “Upstream.” Both are available an .Amazon.com.
