Social Networking is Relationship Marketing (Social Marketing)

There is a lot of hype surrounding social networking, however it can
consume your valuable time without providing much return unless managed
and planned well.

The first steps I recommend are for you to:

1. Find where your current "great" customers are on social media sites?
2. How will you measure the success of your social networking? Recommend tracking of sales.
3. Start with no more than the top 3 or just 1 to get your feet wet and to get a routine going that works.
4. Outline a plan for postings in order to keep customers/followers engaged such as promotions, clearance, newsletters, etc.Testing and learning what they show interest in will be very valuable. More than likely you will need to post a minimum of every other day, so you must build this into your work routine.
5. Have files available so you can post your company's logo or pictures on these social networking sites easily and quickly upon signing up. Link them to your web site if appropriate.

Social networking on the Internet is new, however human nature is not. Therefore remember visuals and worthwhile information will always win!

Facebook is the Top Social Networking Site for Retailers in the United States (products & promotions) according to ForeSee Results, therefore I would start there if you are a retailer.

Social networking continues to evolve and must be managed by a responsible individual and in small businesses that’s the owner most of the time.There are too many legal and ethical concerns in my opinion to not manage these closely.

Hope this helps to get you started, just remember it's work and communications in a consistent manner and choosing where you need to be since we can't be everywhere:).

Newhouse Strategic Marketing, Inc.