Practice the art of listening

So much of advertising and promotion, even on social technologies, involves shouting, one-way communication. What about the lost art of listening? While traditional media don't offer many opportunities for listening, you can do so on social platforms (and even in your store). Ask questions and let your customers talk. By giving them a voice, they will provide ideas for your store.

Now, not every idea will be a good one or even something you can implement, but listen intently and sincerely. You'll gain insights into your customers, and they'll feel appreciated as a shopper. Social technologies simply provide the venue for listening and discussion, but that's it. Facebook is just a portal; it doesn't ask questions or listen. You do that. When you're implementing a social media strategy, consider how you'll listen.

One thing's for sure: you'll never know what your customers want, need or think if you never listen to them.

- Brian Sonnenberg

Social media principles existed long ago

For centuries, humans have participated in 'social media' in one form or another. We've always recommended businesses or products and shared photos just in a different manner.

Harvard Business Review looked into the archives and found a 1966 study discussing the principles of "social media."

Now, the vehicle has changed. Without question, Facebook and Twitter make it easier to share and recommend certain products or brands, but social media principles have been discussed...at least four decades ago.

So, if it helps, realize that the vehicles have changed slightly (Facebook, Twitter), but social media has existed for centuries.

Consumer behavior online

Pinpointing consumer behavior is like trying to catch a fly with chop sticks; however, occasionally, statistics provide insights.

Via comScore.com, Shop.org administered a study looking at consumer behavior and attitudes toward 'social commerce.' They broadly defined commerce to include not just purchasing, but also posting comments or conducting product research on a variety of social media sites.

It's interesting research and something to think about as you wade into social media.

- Brian Sonnenberg

You don't have to be a social media guru

Based on the Market, many of you are considering jumping into social media. You don't have to be a guru to develop/manage a successful Facebook page for your business. It just takes ideas and a little elbow grease!

Check out the slideshow associated with the link in the first paragraph. It reinforces many things discussed at the advertising seminar, and jump into social media without hesitation! You don't need to be a guru!

Competing with the big boys

The North American Retail Hardware Association recently posted an article from the USA Today giving small businesses tips for competing with the Big Box stores.

Along with finding your unique selling proposition, the article also suggests Social Media tactics for attracting customers.

Valuable social media tools

The Internet makes everyone's life easier; however, at times, it may not seem that way. With all the social media outlets, it can be difficult to conceptualize how they can work for your business.

There are several FREE tools available to help you manage your social media presence. Click on the link, read the blog and decide which tool would suit your business best.

These options provide a much easier way for you to manage content on your social media sites, and they're FREE!