Summary:
Learn five tips that represent some of the best ways to help you get more business using
social networks to promote your products and services.
The age of social networking is more than upon us-it is
becoming INGRAINED in us. Many of us are so addicted that we can hardly get out of bed
before we begin checking to see status updates on Facebook and Twitter. Reconnecting with
old friends and staying in touch with current ones are great reasons to use social
networks-but what about using them to market your business?
The fact is, those same networks that you are using to
share pictures and reminisce about old times can be great sources of income for your
business. In addition, there are plenty of social networks out there that are made
specifically for doing just that.
Below is a list of five crucial things you must do to
utilize Facebook or Twitter social networking effectively for your business:
1. Choose networks that cater to potential prospects for
your business.
There are so many social networks to choose from now, it can be overwhelming to keep up
with all of them. In order to be effective, you simply have to make choices. Choose
networks that cater to your particular market. The more targeted the network, the more
interest and activity you are likely to generate.
2. Take time to create a comprehensive, well-written
profile.
Many people simply assume that they will make money by filling out a profile on a social
network and adding their website address. This is highly unlikely. The benefits of a
social network come with interaction-and that can only happen when folks can get to know
you. Take the time to fill out your profile completely, with both business and personal
information (your interests, hobbies or goals) so people can get to know you as a person
and a business owner. People tend to do business with people they feel like they know, so
the more cold and impersonal your profile, the less likely people will want to interact
with you. Liven it up! Show your personality-but do remember to behave in a friendly but
businesslike manner.
3. Interact with community members and build relationships.
In order to build traction within a community, you need to interact. This does not mean
simply messaging others with information about your business or submitting an article once
a month. You need to take the time to get to know them-find out what is important to them,
ask about their business. You want to build a quality network of folks who know about what
you do and care about you. This will encourage them to do business with and refer you.
4. Take advantage of the extra features offered by the
network.
Most social networks today provide many opportunities to help you get your message out:
banner ads, classified ads, blog platforms, article submissions, video hosting platforms
and more. Sure, some may cost a few bucks here or there, but if you really make use of the
features provided, you can quickly become a superstar on any network!
5. Refer clients and prospects to join the network.
Invite business colleagues, clients and potential clients to join the social networks you
use. Is it easier to catch a particular fish in the ocean, or in a tiny pond? Bring all
your prospects as you meet them to your tiny pond and you can get to know them better and
interact with them on a regular, more personal basis. When it comes time for them to buy,
you'll be close by!
While these five tips represent some of the best ways to
help you get more business using social networks, they are by no means the only ones. To
be effective, you must have a plan of action and follow it consistently. Use these tips to
get started, and then continue to build the list as you become more effective at marketing
your business online utilizing social networks. Happy networking!
© 2010 Davis Virtual Assistance. |
