Small businesses have significant challenges in 2010 and 2011 as the political atmosphere changes, new policies and legislation are put into place, and the economy waffles.More and more, small businesses seek cost-effective ways to "get the message out there." With the advent of online social media, blogs, and instant messaging, businesses need to be in the game. Period. It is free, prolific, and if we play our cards right - effective.
One of the first things I suggest to clients is to dive into social media. Many don't get it. Even if they cannot commit to a "Social Media Coordinator," a presence online is expected for businesses. Consumers and clients want to find you quickly, easily, and at their convenience. We will look on Twitter and Facebook for you. If not you, then we will find someone else. If your business is not represented online, it can be viewed as “old school” and that perception can reflect upon your services or products.
At a minimum, it is suggested that a small business should explore these online options:
Develop a plan for each of these. What are your objectives? What do you expect to get out of the time and effort? A plan for the basics can include:
- Your branding (titles, user names, etc...)
- Your design look (matching your logo, marketing materials, web site?)
- Your voice (friendly chat? industry knowledge? promotional? all?)
- Your message (coordinates with all your marketing messages in brochures, ads, website, etc...)
- Blog guidelines
- Video policies
- Social networking guidelines
- Email and messaging policies
- Confidentiality requirements
Marketing these days takes a village, a network, cheerleaders, opportunities, friendships. ingenuity, creativity, consistency, and focus. Use your time wisely. Guard your dollars. Be successful!
Be sure to read my IndieCEO marketing blog about online marketing for the artist/crafter community.
For fun reading, see GalleriaLinda's jewelry blog...
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