10 Commandments of Social Media
Posted on Fri, Jul 30, 2010 @ 09:13 AM
There's little question that times
are changing for business seeking to build and promote their business. No longer does a business need 20 years to build their image and customer loyalty, or establish word of mouth advertising. No longer do business owners rely on TV Executives, Radio Station Directors and Newspaper Editors for an opportunity to market their brand. Now, we have Social Media. If you are just catching on to the social media craze you had better buckle up, because there is no shortage of social media networks, tools, tips, and resources. For this reason, we've compiled a straightforward, brief summary of what you need to know in order to incorporate an effective social media strategy.
Be real
The age-old saying "be yourself" is equally, if not more, important in online etiquette. Those that have been online awhile know who’s there to market & sell, and who’s there to build relationships. They smell SALES PITCH coming a mile away, and some will call foul the moment they do. Remember, your goal is to build relationships through interaction, not self promotion.
Listen
To be a better marketer you need to be a better listener. Have you ever had a relationship that ended because the other person never seemed to listen to you? That rate multiplies by 10 in social media because it’s easy to click & un-follow.
Value attention when you get it
People are starved for time and are generally thinking about 5 or 6 things at once. If you manage to capture some attention from your prospects don’t squander it, and don’t expect to constantly be in the spotlight. Value the attention you’re given because time is truly a limited resource.
Don’t focus on numbers
A short-term marketer or sales person only sees the quota they need to hit or the volume they need to produce. Social media is about long-term relationship building. Make it your goal to build lifelong connections. Rome wasn't built in a day and your social media strategy shouldn't be either.
Treat your network like a garden
Personal and timely communication is vital if you want to gain business from social media. Tend to your group, help it grow and bloom, and enjoy the beautiful results!
Don’t be a bore
Let your personality shine and you will find the influential connections come much easier. Be different, be fun, be interesting.
Don’t be a social litterbug
If you’re going to create social profiles on every network out there and only visit them once, congratulations, your profile has just become online litter. It clogs the system and will irritate users, not influence them.
Be personable
With the vast numbers of brands and individuals using social networks nonstop, the social sphere can often compare to a virtual vuvuzella. With so many choices and potential competitors available on the web, what makes you different and relatable to others?
Welcome participation and feedback
It's important to keep in mind that due to the internet's ambiguity, people tend to be more direct than they are face to face. But if you are prepared to not take negative feedback too personally, it can be a great way to understand how your brand is perceived by the public and allow you to adjust your marketing strategy accordingly.
Commit time and resources
Social media does take some time – it’s like attending a meeting and building a relationship all rolled into one, except digitally. Social Media Marketing embedded in your Marketing Mix is a long-term goal, not a quick-fix solution, and if utilized correctly it can bring unparalleled results!
By Ilona Lemeshov, Internet Marketing Associate