Let’s just get something straight…

Businesses trying to attract customers through relationship building is nothing new. This is an element of marketing that has existed many, many years ago.

Previously, communicating to the masses had to be executed through limited, established channels such a TV, radio, newspapers, billboards, etc. Now, everybody can do it! At least, they think they can…

It’s about time we realize that presence alone on social media won’t get your business anywhere. You need to create a strategy and execution plan. And who does that? Marketers do that. Or at least someone with a marketing mind.

The more we examine this thought, the more we realize that separating social media from the rest of your business and marketing efforts won’t be successful. Social media is just one tool in your arsenal for effective communication. It’s a HUGE tool that can bring tremendous success, but still just a tool.

Persons effective in social media often use other elements such as public relations, customer service, recommendations/referrals, advertising and networking to achieve success. Think outside of the Timeline and see how you can bring your business to social media and bring social media into your business.

Some ideas to get those marketing juices flowing:

• Post pictures of what’s happening in your store right now – if a customer is there, ask for feedback on your product/service (recommendations)
• Planning a big social media giveaway? Write a press release and send to the major news channel. You could get some free coverage (public relations)
• Don’t just post to your pages and forget it. Like other brands in your industry then share and comment on their posts. On Twitter, you can connect with ANYONE – ask them how their day is going. Search for keywords related to your business and strike up convos with persons talking about your brand; your competitors’ brand too, if you’re brave enough (networking)

So stop thinking ‘social media’ and start thinking ‘marketing using social media’.

Have any other ideas businesses can use to integrate social media with their other marketing and business development efforts? Share them with me in the comments below.

Related articles

• Social Media and Technology SHOULD Make Tasks EASIER NOT Harder So, Keep It Simple Stupid [KISS] (anisesmithmarketing.com)
• Social Media: Optimizing It For Your Business (recruiterbox.com)
• Social media: tool or opportunity? (usefulsocialmedia.com)