As a business owner, it's imperative to stay abreast of social media news. The tactics needed to succeed in this venue are constantly changing. What works today, will likely be defunct six months from now as new technology is developed.
There are many places to obtain social media news. It's best to seek out reputable sources that intend to inform instead of sell products. A few of the more popular include Mashable, TechCrunch, MarketingSherpa, and Online Marketing DNA.
Most people equate social media marketing with Facebook and Twitter, but there are countless other resources. These include networks like LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+, MySpace, and Pinterest.
While it isn't necessary to join every networking organization, it is advisable to make use of those which reach your target market. Even though Facebook is at the top of the list, companies whose demographic market is 18-25 year olds might fare better at Twitter and YouTube.
Many people discount the power of MySpace. Not so long ago, this networking group was all the rage. It remains a good choice for reaching Generation X consumers, as a lot of younger people avoid Facebook simply because their parents use it.
There is little doubt that social marketing is a powerful tool. However, just as with all types of Internet marketing practices, owners need to know how, when, and where to connect with their target audience.
Spending a little time each day reviewing social media news outlets will give business owners an upper hand over competitors. The one given about Internet marketing is things will always change. Those who are able to go with the flow and adjust strategies when needed will be able to maintain their search rankings and continually grow their subscriber base.
Perhaps the most important thing to understand about social marketing is that it involves interacting with people. It is 95 percent relationship building and 5 percent selling. People are tired of being ripped off and leery of doing business with companies they don't know. They want to know who they are dealing with before handing over money.
It's important to be approachable and responsive to people within the group. This is a great way to strengthen customer relationships and brand recognition.
Social media provides great market research tools to analyze performance and demographics. Most offer the option to purchase advertising or promote posts within the network.
The best approach is to wholeheartedly share information and help subscribers become informed consumers. Make use of interactive tools, such as polls or surveys. Maintain a positive environment and share your personality in a polite and friendly way.
Lastly, use social media news to discover industry trends. While there are plenty of strategies that can improve search rankings, content remains king. Producing articles, videos, or podcasts about hot topics related to your industry is a good way to take ad campaigns viral.
People enjoy knowing things before others, so following trends will let you offer what they desire. This tactic can also help websites earn authority site status with Google and boost search positioning.
These are just a few reasons to keep an eye on social media news. This form of marketing is still relatively new and is certain to undergo many changes. Those who pay attention and change with the tide can dominate their niche and develop lifelong relationships with fans.
Our official Online Marketing DNA blog provides more tips for capitalizing on proven Internet marketing methods. Topics include SEO marketing, local listings, video and podcast marketing, mobile marketing, and much more.
Tags: Business, Internet Marketing, Online Marketing DNA, Social Media News, Strategies
Published on September 14, 2012
