Social Marketing for 2012

Magically, we're just about to reach 2012 -- end of the world by some estimates. (Mayan Calendar and all.) But maybe, as some people suggest ... it's just the end of the world as we know it. And as the entire business world goes online and we turn from "real" to "digital," maybe they're right.

Surprisingly, though, a lot of small businesses still don't have a website. A website. Wow. It is 2012 after all. Or, you know ... their website is awful, and they probably know it. Now, if you have nothing online to sell yourself, are you really expecting future success? Or are you playing a lovely game of "passive-aggressive" with yourself? I don't know why I'm not succeeding. I'm trying so hard! I've done what I can to make it easy and affordable for you to get online if you're not already. Please consider this important update if it's needed.

But now let's talk about social marketing. Are you on Linked In, Facebook, or Twitter with your business? Do you know that they are EASY to sign up for, and spending just a little time each week talking about something you know about -- your business -- is a free way to attract legitimate interest in your business. Are you making use of this?

(Ok ... you're not just talking about YOUR BUSINESS. You're talking about things related to it. You build credibility in that field, and therefore attract the right kind of attention to your business.)

There are ways to automate content on your social networks too. And this is useful for the consistency and quality it offers. But no one else has your unique perspective on your industry (even if it's just how to make a great pizza), and it's good to offer that from time to time. And certainly to engage in online conversation with anyone asking questions. Be there for them and start to build the trust and even the FRIENDSHIP that can yield long-term business.