We are getting many calls and e-mails from small business owners asking us: What is social media and what can it do for our business? So, we thought this deserved a blog post.

What is Social Media?

Social Media is a collection of online communities that enable us to connect with people socially, share stories and experiences as well as publish and promote content. Blogs as well as many social networking sites including Facebook, Twitter, Flicker, YouTube and LinkedIn have help us connect with people across the world in ways we never thought possible. Engaging in social media is similar to business networking events or social cocktail parties without the restriction of time and space. On a personal or business level, social networking is about:

• Building relationships
• Starting online conversations
• Creating word-of-mouth
• Answering questions or helping others
• Asking questions
• Trusting recommendations
• Taking Advice

Why is Social Media important for your business?

More than likely, your business, products, services, or industry is being discussed somewhere online. When you actively participate in social communities with your customers, you stand out greatly by being a company that people want to interact with. You are able to include customers on your decisions, ideas, and thoughts. Social media is an excellent PR tool which sets you apart from competition as well as increases visibility and accessibility of your business. It allows you to:

• Manage your reputation online

• Build recognizable identity or branding of your products or services

• Create “Buzz” or online conversations about products or services

• Form relationships with customers, prospects, employees, business partners, investors, colleagues, or friends

• Invite positive or critical feedback, dialogue, and discussion

• Speak directly, openly and honestly with your customers

• Articulate your viewpoints, knowledge & expertise pertaining to your industry

• Reach millions of people globally who could potentially become customers

The truth is that it is only the beginning for social media, and it is not going away. So, you cannot afford to ignore it for your business.

The information we shared is a good start and will get you thinking about your business. Stay tuned for more posts about social media. We hope we answered your basic questions. Please leave your comments and feedback, and we promise to respond back and assist you in any way we can. We are here to help and we would love to hear from you!