If you’re in business today, you’re probably using social media to promote your company, products or services. But just because you are using social media, it certainly does not mean that you are using social media properly. Admittedly, there’s much I am still in the process of learning as it relates to social media. It almost takes a social media expert to keep up with the constant changes that go on. Nonetheless, in today’s business world, social media is a mainstay.
Even still, if you’re like me you’re thinking; “if I see one more article about social media, I’m going to scream.” Trust me I understand. If you’re an entrepreneur or small business owner, it can be a daunting task to manage and monetize your social media efforts. Many people think just having a profile and picture loaded while occasionally posting something is all that it takes. And if that’s you, I challenge you to join the explosion of business enterprise that is currently happening on the world-wide-web. If you want to grow your business to the next level, whatever that is for you, it is important that you master social media. A case can be made for all of the major players; Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Linked In, Pinterest and YouTube. However, if you want to eliminate the chance of being your industry’s best kept secret, I suggest you pick a few social media platforms and dominate them. Check out my 3 easy ways to stop being a social media secret in your field.
1. Increase your search engine optimization results with Google+.
To increase the likelihood of your website being found by your target audience, you must optimize your website in the search engines. You would have to be living under a rock to not know that Google is the biggest search engine on the Internet. The best way to increase your visibility on the web is utilize Google+. If you are avoiding Google+, and looking at it as just another social media networking site, you’re missing the boat. And that might be the biggest mistake you could make as an entrepreneur in your marketing strategy. Of course like other social media sites, you have to build a profile, post a picture, create a network of friends and follow them, etc. But that’s where Google + stops being like other social media networking sites. Here’s the difference: Google + is changing the way we look at social networking and search engine optimizing and connecting them together. What is emerging out of this duo is a new term, called the “social search.” So being on Google + gives you perks that the average person using Google doesn’t have. When you search on Google it takes into account your location and social circles and then tweaks the results that rank higher in your search based on your network. Therefore the SEO component on Google + makes your activity more critical than other social networking sites. Remember Google likes and recognizes Google owned sites and pages. So your Google + company page stands a better chance of being found than other networking sites. Avoiding Google+ will eventually make your company lose ranking on search engines. On the contrary, actively using Google+ will help your reputation as being an authority in your field.
2. Purchase Facebook Ads.
Utilizing Facebook to gain exposure for your business is a no-brainer whether you’re a small business or major corporation. Facebook affords your company the ability to have a dedicated URL and business page where you have the opportunity to directly connect and engage with your followers. Facebook ads offer a unique ability to zero target your ideal clients in a very effective way. You have the capability to choose who sees your ad while selecting demographic and geographic information about them. In addition, you can determine how much you spend per day and per week with Facebook ads. The best thing about Facebook ads is that it gives your message the greatest opportunity to go viral and the chance to be viewed by tons of people who you didn’t even pay to reach.
3. Join Groups on Linked In.
There are a few advantages that Linked In has over other social networking sites. For starters many companies seek to fill open positions by promoting jobs. Also, another asset for Linked In is the perception that it is for “professionals” only. Linked In currently has over 200 million registered users. Many people are affiliated with groups on Linked and offer their expertise in the form of discussions or announcements. Joining groups outside of your network will give you the opportunity to meet possible joint venture partners or prospects who you may be able to convert to paying clients.
Using social media to grow your business is a great way to get your name out there in a bigger way. If you use social media properly, not only will you no longer be the best kept secret in your field, but you will gain followers and new clients as a result. What are your ideas for using social media to increase your visibility and awareness in your industry? Please share them in the comments section below.
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This article is written by Lori A. Manns. Want to use this article for your website, blog or newsletter? No problem. Here’s what you must include: Lori A. Manns, CEO of Quality Media Consultant Group your marketing and sales success mentor, and founder of Marketing For Traiblazers System;TM that shows you how to get more clients, more visibility and increase your income, guaranteed. To purchase consulting services on marketing, advertising or sales and, learn how to increase your revenue and grow your business; please visit www.qualitymediaconsultants.com.
Great post Lori. I’m doing all of this, but definitely need to utilize Goggle+ more. Thanks so much for the reminders.