Social Media For Small Businesses

For small businesses, effective online activity these days is becoming more and more important, whether it's web design and SEO, finding free online accounting software or using Twitter, Facebook and the like to build your brand and connect with potential customers. In this post we'll examine how to use social media to grow your business.

Feedback

One of the biggest advantages of social media is that you're able to receive constant feedback about your products, services and online presence. It's important to start by checking that you're reaching the right audience.

You also need to ensure that, having connected with the relevant demographic, you listen to what they're telling you. Social media is - or should be - a two-way street. It's important not to fall into the trap of using, say, Twitter as just a method of issuing pronouncements about your business.

Networking

Both Twitter and Facebook can be excellent vehicles for networking with other professionals and companies, as well as communicating with your customers. LinkedIn tends to be seen by other professionals as the most important networking site, but don't neglect other social media as a valid way of connecting with potential business partners.

Building Trust

Perhaps the most important aspect of social media for small businesses is the ability it gives you to build trust. If you're Googled by a potential customer - or business contact - and they're taken to a well-thought-out Facebook or Twitter account with clear communication between you and your existing contacts, you're already ahead!