12 ways to improve your social marketing on Facebook, Twitter, Google+

It can be hugely daunting to work out where to start with social marketing or how to be sure that your efforts will even be worthwhile. But given that Twitter now has over 16 million users, nearly half of America is on Facebook and YouTube is the world’s second most used search engine, it’s clear that you need to be using social channels without delay. Here are 12 tips that will aid success on Facebook, Twitter, Google + and other network you choose to harness:

1. Claim your land

Think back to when the internet started booming, and everybody scrambled to register a domain name even if they didn’t plan to start using it right away. Well, now you need to stake your claim on planet social media by creating your company’s Facebook page, Twitter account, YouTube channel, LinkedIn profile, Google+ profile and so on.

2. Create a complete profile

Maximise your profiles with pictures, company information, links to your website/blog and so on. In the digital space, it’s more important than ever to show what people can gain by connecting with you.

3. Spend time observing/listening

Think of going to a party where you don’t know anybody as a useful analogy. You wouldn’t barge into strangers’ conversations without first observing the room, and considering what to talk about with those there. Harnessing Facebook marketing, Twitter and LinkedIn is no different, so learn how people interact, speak, share and communicate before bowling in. Create a social media listening dashboard as a starting point.

4. Find your people

Find individuals talking about topics and events that relate to your company. For instance, if you’re a non-profit working on disaster relief efforts, connect with the Red Cross and the like or hone in on individuals talking about worldwide disasters.

5. Engage – but don’t yell

So, you’re definitely ready to start building relationships with like-minded people and organisations. The golden rule is to never ever jump in selling your wares, promoting your work or asking for anything. Be a giver, not a chancer.

6. Build your fan base

This will start happening organically as you start to engage with the right people on social channels. Remember to promote your growing presence on the social sites to your existing supporter base by linking through from your website or sending out email blasts.

7. Build meaningful relationships

Act as a vital resource offering hot-off-the-press sector news and other content to build a great online reputation

8. Identify and interact with influencers

Tap into those who already have sizeable, trusted online networks and can help you to effectively amplify your message.

9. Connect the dots

The beauty of social media marketing is that once you have some followers, you can connect them to one another to increase your influence and reach. Make introductions on Facebook, share stuff between your Twitter followers – become a connector.

10. Pump out useful information and content

Similar to tip no.7, but the advice is to treat the social web as you do your website. Keeping content fresh takes time, but remember, it doesn’t all have to be self-created: sharing the best of what is out there will also create value.

11. Activate your networks

All the above steps will help you build a community of people who a) support your organisation and b) are willing to do something to support you. It’s now down to you to keep up the engagement levels and maintain a positive impact on your online community.

12. Say thankyou

It really makes the difference when you take time out to thank your followers and fans for attending events, retweeting your tweets, liking a Facebook status update or any other action you’ve invited them to take. Not only is it decent common courtesy (which applies as much online as in any social setting), it will benefit you by encouraging them to keep supporting you.

Source: adapted from a blog post on socialmediatoday.com