Long term success in any business endeavor, social media or otherwise, requires a good foundation.
We can talk tactics like listening, post frequency & timing, and tools all day long, but first let’s look at what makes for a solid base.
Most businesses want to start using social media for business. The ones that have started are in the process of figuring it out. There are a lot of smart marketers and savvy communicators out there.
You are one of them.
Most organizations that fail, do so because they didn’t think about the foundation. Make sure you are building yours on rock instead of sand. Work, knowledge, right people, and passion, aka WKRP, are four cornerstones to get you started and make sure your social media efforts will last.
No, not that WKRP, but if it helps you remember it then by all means reminisce a little.
1. Work
In the words of Social Fresh Conference veteran, Tom Webster, “do the work.” Of course successful social media marketing takes effort. Name one thing in business that doesn’t?
You need to commit to persistent and consistent effort. Establishing traction and building community takes time, especially when it is for business.
Focus on being active. It doesn’t have to take forty hours a week, but you need to dedicate time to contribute regularly. There is also a difference between being busy and productive. Productive work is action that is tied to goals or objectives. Don’t fall into the trap of pointless activity. There are a lot of busy people out there who are not accomplishing much.
2. Knowledge
It’s time to get your learn on. Get a social media education. You are on your way since you are reading this. Find other blogs, books, social media conferences and resources that will increase your knowledge.
The number one way to learn is to do. See above. Get started and take notes. Make everything a learning opportunity. Reach out to people online and off that are succeeding and ask questions. Most folks are more than willing to share.
3. Right People
Don’t jump into social media marketing without doing your homework. You don’t need everyone, just the right people.
The best place to start is to go where they are. Ask your existing customers what social media channels they use. Listen online and off to identify what the best uses of your time and resources are to connect with more of the right people for your business.
4. Passion
The magic is passion.
Intangibles like enthusiasm, fascination, and appetite unite and fuel work, knowledge, and right people. Passion is the emotion that empowers you to take risks, think differently, and think of ways to connect business with social media.
Your Turn
Here is a foundation for your social media marketing efforts. WKRP will give you a great launching point. It’s your turn. What are you doing to lay the proper foundation for your social business?
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