Harness the power of social media; where to start...

Far from being just a nifty way for friends to catch up, social media is redefining the way in which businesses work. Megan Winter from Motor Mouth Advertising shares her tips on harnessing the power of social media to get your business motoring.

Through social media sites like LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube you can reach clients, build relationships, direct traffic to your website, market products and services, and above all, compete with your competition on a level playing field.

Your clients and customers are carrying Smartphone’s, iPads and laptops, and accessing news, and information on the move, every minute of every day. Use social media wisely, and you can not only connect with new customers, you have the potential to reach a global audience far beyond anything traditional marketing or word of mouth could ever deliver. Social media is word of mouth enhanced, accelerated, and on steroids.

If your business needs to get a handle on social media, keep these points in mind and you’ll be on your way to harnessing the power of social media. 

Define your objectives
Know your objectives and how you will measure them. Do you want to create awareness, build a relationship, launch a product, drive traffic to your website, conduct market research and/or gain consumer insights?

Develop you plan
Have a well thought out social media strategic plan that meets your objectives. Ensure it reinforces and compliments your existing marketing plan.

Choose the right tools for you
A common misconception is that every business must be on Facebook. While it is an excellent tool for some businesses, it may not be right for you. Remember, Facebook wasn’t even around five years ago and there will undoubtedly be numerous new social media sites launched in the future. As long as you have clearly defined objectives you will be able to find the tools that are right for you.

Be consistent
As with any relationship, social media should be looked at as a long term strategy. Maintaining consistency in frequency and message is imperative.

Upload only relevant content
Make sure the content you upload meets your objectives, and is relevant to your business and your audience.

Get your team involved
Make sure your team is on the same page, and encourage them to interact with and share your social media activity with their friends.

Measure ROI
You’re investing in your social media so you want to make sure it’s working. If you’re not already, ask people how they heard about you. Generate the statistics and reports available to measure your social media presence.

At its simplest, social media is about connecting with people. Engage with customers and business will follow. It’s fun, it’s full of potential, and it’s undoubtedly the best thing you can do right now to get your business motoring. So, what are you waiting for?

Contact: Megan Winter
Business: Motor Mouth Advertising
Phone: 0439 664 929
Website: www.motormouthadvertising.com.au