"To Tweet or Not to Tweet?"

…that is indeed the question on many marketer's and business owner's minds these days.  With so many social media sites out there and each one having its own, distinct personality and use, which one do we use for which marketing purpose?  It is all very subjective and some of it takes some time to get a feel for, but there are a couple of definite rules to follow when tweeting, posting, updating, etc.    Let’s start first with Twitter and then we’ll cover more sites in the near future: 

Twitter is a micro-blogging site that allows people to say something about themselves or their company, among many other things, in 140 characters or less.  Twitter for business is currently used as a quick way for people to connect with potential clients, and to share what it is you do and why it may help them in their own businesses and/or lives.  It’s quick and simple, but must be to the point.  Some people are known to ‘tweet’ 40-50 messages a day.  We recommend no more than 6 for your business; making sure you’re not just tweeting to tweet.  People can see through this little tactic.  Putting good quality, interesting, viral worthy information and links up should ensure that people will follow you.  It’s all about quality, not quantity and we’ll express that more than once when covering social media topics. 

So to answer the question at hand, TWEET!  Just do it responsibly with quick, informative boosts of information that will make your followers begin to and continue to value you and your input.

Social Media for My Business? No Thanks. OK Maybe...

It's a tough pill to swallow, but let's face it folks, social media marketing is pretty important to small business owners.  We know what you're thinking.  It's not easy starting a social media marketing and management campaign.  As small business owners, you have enough going on.  You don't want to have to deal with an entirely new marketing campaign, too.  

A few have said that even if they did have time to create and implement something new and exciting to their marketing portfolio, "social media is stupid".  "It's annoying and intrusive and sometimes terrifying".

"I know I have to think about it, but I simply don't want to do it."

Yep, We've heard all of the above.  And that's OK.  It is scary to get onto social media and expose your business to a world full of critics and naysayers.

The beauty of social media is this; you're also exposing your business to a world full of possibilities. Possible clients and customers.  Possible business partners and employees.  Possible mentors and educators. The possibilities are endless, and even though it's frightening, and sometimes annoying, it's worth it in the end, because despite your fears, social media for your business is a good thing.  It opens people's eyes to what you can do for them, which is why you started your business in the first place, right?

If you're terrified or just plain annoyed that you 'have' to do this, talk to a social media professional or a fellow business owner who uses social media for their business.  Ask questions to dilute the fears and frustrations. 

The more you know about how it works and why it works the way it does, and how it can indeed help make your business grow, the more benign that jagged little pill gets, until it feels more like a vitamin than cyanide.