Can Social Media Help You Sell More?
November 20, 2009 by Michael Fleischner
Filed under Internet marketing
Can social media really help your business build it’s brand or sell the products you have to offer? With more people using these web sites on a daily basis, there must be a way to turn followers into purchasers. I believe its possible with a few simple strategies. Consider the power of social media as communicator, leader, and sale person. Follow these guidelines for social media success.
To be effective with your use of social media, you need to communicate in the area of your expertise. For example, if you are a designer interested in HTML you want to be communicating with other people who have an interest in web site development. By creating a following that you have something in common with, you’re sure to have a valuable dialog.
Begin with a Social Media plan. Many people start using social media without a clear objective. You should always begin with a clear objective and by developing a plan to support social media activities on a regular basis. Decide if you can handle the burden of social media on your own or if you will require help from others.
Share what you know with your audience. Everyone has something they like to do or know something about. What is your passion? Where is your experience? Share what you know with others who are just starting out or who are in a similar field. Just because someone is an expert in one area doesn’t mean they are an expert in all areas. Pick and area that you know especially well and commit to sharing what you know with others.
Consistent communication is important. Posting information one day or one week and not the next doesn’t do much to build a following. Those who are most successful communicate just the right information at the right time. Striking a balance is important to your successful over the long term. Start with small, consistent communications that provide value and you’ll see results.
Invite others to join the conversation. Start a dialog around a topic or discussion. One way you can start meaningful discussion is by choosing a topic and taking a stand. By creating dialog that is on topic, you invite others to be part of the conversation. The more others participate the more engaging your content. This attracts new followers and others who want o participate on a regular basis.
Stop selling. Something that I see on a regular basis is direct selling happening on social media websites. However, what these individuals don’t realize is that nothing turns off individuals more than being sold. Rather, they want to learn about a subject area and choose products and services on their own after research, recommendations, and reasoning. Don’t use social media to sell directly. Rather, use social media to build a following. Once you have proved value, others will look to follow you and the products you use or try.
The area of social media is in full force. By developing a list of followers or fans, you can quickly improve the opportunity to build your brand. To sell your products however, you’ll have to create value for your followers. Don’t try to sell directly. You’re best bet is to mention products in a subtle way. This has more power than the direct approach when it comes to social media marketing. Followers can leave you quickly so don’t push your luck. Create value and they will return the favor.
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categories: social media,Twitter,Facebook,MySpace,Marketing
Tags: facebook, Internet marketing, Internet marketing, Marketing, myspace, social media, twitter
