Do I really need to get involved in Social Media?

In a word: yes.

But many entrepreneurs have become discouraged with Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and other social media, because it’s quite possible to invest weeks of effort with no discernible effect. When you keep in mind it’s different from traditional off-line marketing, you can understand how it will work over time.

Social Media exists to create communities, not dominate markets. It’s highly personal, and relationships are furthered by thoughtful, behind-the-scenes type information, rather than hard sells. Think ‘pulling people in,’ not ‘pushing a product or service.’ You’re working to nurture relationships.

Traditional advertising, on the other hand, seeks to stand out by shouting. It’s more about controlling your relationships and in a sense, forcing the outcome.

Like your professional and personal relationships, social media marketing is a longer term effort requiring an initial investment of time and effort. Social media requires almost daily participation, so focus on one or two platforms at first. Better to keep current on a smaller number of sites then let your efforts lapse. For example, a tourism site would be well served using Facebook and Twitter to reach out to potential travelers and pointing them to the site for information about traveling in the region the site represents.

Finally, keep in mind that social media is best for attracting prospects and customers, not for converting them. Always refer them to your website…which you have optimized for the conversion process, right?

Red Kite Marketing will be adding specific topics related to social media marketing in our Blog postings. You can also sign up for our free email newsletter, or fill out our contact form for a free consultation.