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12 Things you can do in 2010 to Grow Your Business
Idea #7 - 3.5 ways to use online social media to build your business
By now, you've certainly heard about online social media such as Facebook, Twitter, etc. Are you using sites like this to create interest about your company and/or drive traffic to your website? If so, I'd love to hear your success stories. Here are 3.5 simple ideas to help you use the power of online social media:
1 - Make comments about topics other people are interested in. Whether you're on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Digg, or any of the hundreds of social media sites available, try to be conversational instead of just posting obvious advertisements for your business. For example, you can search for topics that pertain to what you do and answer questions other people have posted. Or link to articles or information you've seen somewhere else. It's okay to let your personality shine through! Post comments and tweet about topics that are not business related and build relationships with people you have and may never meet. But they may do business or refer business to you one day.
2 - Ask questions. This works REALLY well in online social media. Ask for advice,
a referral to a service, or a general question that will get people thinking about how, why and when they may need what you are selling. You'll be amazed at the insight and responses you receive when you ask the right questions. If you're hosting a webinar, seminar, meeting, or event, be sure to post this in as many places as possible to boost attendance.
3 - Join groups. Just like in real life, the only way you really get to know other people better and how they get to know you is when you join smaller groups of people with similar interests. Be sure to create a fan page for your company on Facebook; join or create LinkedIn groups that pertain to your industry and target markets. Participate in these groups to build relationships and recognition.
3.5 - Consider advertising on Facebook. If you're going to do any online advertising, consider Facebook. It has millions of very dedicated users who spend a lot of time on the site each day. Right now, some online marketing experts are saying that Facebook ads can be more effective than Google (and in many cases are much less expensive!).
It's not too late! If you have not been using social media to build your business, now is the time to get started.
To review the list of all 12 Ideas to Grow Your Business in 2010, just go here
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