A study by the University of Maryland shows that businesses are capitalizing on marketing technology. The rate of technology users doubled to 24% from the previous study year. Five hundred companies participated in the December 2009 phone survey studying social network media use in small business marketing.

The primary participation method of companies in these marketing arenas is with a company page on social network sites. Status updates, articles and customer feedback are other methods of interaction. A company might also use a blog and post articles based on their expertise. Despite that owners considers these marketing activities to be time-consuming, they expect a return of investment within a year.

A business should not launch into internet marketing or other marketing activities without preparation. Businesses should remember the basics of marketing apply to any marketing. A social marketing plan with objectives should be integrated into the business marketing plan, or created as a standalone plan. Social marketing objectives should be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-sensitive. Instilling a local vision into objectives will ensure business goals have local impact.

Use internet research to find suitable market network sites. Browse websites to profile them on how they work. Investigate whether your market can be reached through the site. Assess what marketing features are available to reach marketing objectives. The “About Us” page can be paired with other more objective informational sources such as website ranking portals.

Consider that each media network may offer different qualities. A social media site whose members merely rate websites, comments or videos might not be a match to your business needs. However, if a site offers localization features such as zip codes, geographic mapping, community creation, or local meetings, these may provide a local hook. Websites that allow businesses to connect with local community members through posting pictures, news, or by using local electronic coupons, may be community magnets.

Social media marketing offers a comparatively low investment of time versus money. The time consumption factor can be downscaled with social network management software. Online networks can easily connect companies to customers. By bringing technology to publicity, public relations, direct sales, and customer relationship management from a global or local perspective, small business marketing can work smarter, not harder.

You can use social networks very effectively when planning small business marketing campaigns. Learn more about some of the methods and programs by visiting the website at http://AutomatedSocialNetworking.com .


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