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Sure, we keep hearing it.  The whole "buzz" out in the business community that has everyone wanting to know more...and there's definitely a good reason for it. Social media is becoming one of the fastest growing trends among growing businesses throughout the world.  Why is this?  Well, first of all, it's a great way to have conversation with your clients.  Not only is it a great way to engage with them, it's also a great way to nip problems in the bud as they arise. Is this why the percentages of businesses utilizing social media platforms have grown so rapidly?  Perhaps.  But to a social media marketer (that'd be me), it seems to be the natural progression for marketing integration.  Note: Integration.

Social media is my business. It's what I do on a daily basis.  That, and blogging (ghost blogging for many clients).  But as a social media strategist, I'm always surprised when I hear a potential client, or the public, misinterpret what social media is supposed to DO.  Let me explain: Social media is not the "be all end all." Social media is not going to instantly fix your business problems.  And social media is not going to be the answer if you are anti-social.  Get it?  Social media platforms are only one of the tools in the tool shed...one prong on the fork...one piece of the pie.  I won't bore you with my analogies but I want you to get the point.

When we deal with marketing, most businesses have numerous audiences. That being said, in the past, some of the most popular marketing was geared toward radio, television, billboards, magazine, etc. That's how corporations could "sell" to their audiences.  At the time, it seemed a pretty effective method of communicating, yes? I mean, at least for the companies who used them. "Here's our message, take it or leave it, but please buy our product or service." But how effective was it all?  How much money did small and large businesses spend without REALLY knowing if anyone was paying attention?

All of these methods were thought to be tried and true for most...granted you didn't have a crappy product or service. And trust me, no amount of advertising, trendy marketing strategies, or money you put into it will make something better if it's not up to par.  But let's say you have all your eggs in the basket.  You send out mailers, flyers, heart-shaped boxes...where are they going?  And how would you ever know?  I'm not saying to cut out these forms of advertising, what I am suggesting is shifting your marketing budget.

The beauty behind integration of email and social media?  It's measurable. And you're able to consistently share.  (Not that I'm trying to convince you...I'm just saying...) Sharing and being top of mind with your clients or potential clients, allows them the opportunity to get to know you.  I've said it before and I'm a firm believer: Business is no longer business. It's definitely personal.

How are you communicating?

Guest Blogger | Lindsay Manfredi

Lindsay Manfredi is president of Linzstar Inc, a social media company thatfocuses on ghost blogging and social media management/strategy for numerous industries. Manfredi also fronts the all girl, Indianapolis - based band, Neon Love Life, and is one of the founders of Girls Rock Indianapolis.

http://www.linzstar.com | http://www.neonlovelife.com | http://www.girlsrockindy.org