First step to social media: get a strategy

Many people are using social media but have no idea why they are doing it, said Terri Morrin of integritive, inc. at last week's Brown Bag Lunch and Learn session on online marketing which included presentations by Jen Vandewetering of WordJack Media and Justin Belleme of JB Media Group .

"First - forget all the tools - you need a strategy," Terri said.

Social media should be an extension of company strategies and should drive an already established objective. "You wouldn't put up a billboard without some sort of tie back to a company objective," Terri said. "Think about how Facebook, Twitter, etc. can help you with your corporate strategy."
 
The panel posed the suggestion that only 25 percent of your social media content should be promotional. And the other 75 percent? 

• Things your audience is interested in, 
• Related to your business, just not a hard sell. 
• Be generous, engaging and interesting. 
• Think about what your business has an affinity for.
• Ask questions, 
• Provide good industry content
• Sharable content such as photos, videos, etc.

 Additional resources on developing a social media strategy: 

• 4 traits business-to-business social media success stories have in common
• Andy's Answers: What questions should I be asking before launching my social media program?
• Behind the Scenes of 4 Hot Social Media Campaigns
• 8 Quick Tips for Developing a Facebook Marketing Strategy
  How to Make a Social Media Plan for Your Business | SBA.gov
• 5 Ways Strategic Social Media Can Help Small Businesses
   

Have a tip or resource you'd like to share? Leave a comment or join our discussion on LinkedIn 

The next Lunch & Learn session will be on Networking Strategies, Dec. 5th. Free, please RSVP