One Minute Marketing Message

Weekly Review Social Media and Small Business (Jan 30th)

2010-01-31T04:01:00.000-08:00

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Technology and the Consumer
Here are a few charts by eMarketers.com that amplify what problems U can solve for your your techno social media audience. Build your online community by catering to these needs......Communication, Information, Education, Saving Time,Shopping, Saving Money...You can do that! Below are two more charts from eMarters.com that show the demographics of your online community and the shopping malls ( social site) they frequent.

Location based social media
I live in relatively small (100,000) tourist town (Temecula, California) that has 20 million people within a 90 mile radius.... location based social media may allow local small business to cater customers before they arrive in your store... much like this scenario by Dave Evans.

In the latest "check-in" applications, data left by prior consumers is tapped when someone "checks in." By telling you what's around, who else is nearby, or what's good here these services provide information that can inform the decisions your customers are going to make in the next 30 seconds: by accessing tips left by prior visitors when they "check in" at your store or in your part of town they can instantly access a whole new set of relevant comments.
For example, checking in at a new location may bring up information about a nearby swank lounge along with some recommendations on which cocktails others have enjoyed. That's pretty cool from both the bar owner and tippler's perspectives: without a recommendation, most people tend to order the same cocktail everywhere (for me, it's a Manhattan, straight up.) That's a lost opportunity to educate or differentiate. After all, most people love trying new cocktails, but only rarely do. Way too many bartenders, when asked by a customer, "What's your favorite cocktail," respond with either "Miller Light" or "I don't have one." Neither of these is the right answer, and location-based tips left by those who actually do have a suggestion are really helpful in this context. Barkeeps, location-based services are a potential moneymaker for you!

Dodgeball co-founder Dennis Crowley's new application, Foursquare (available currently for the Android, iPhone, and BlackBerry) has a very simple, mobile interface, and a very cool game-based mode of use. Click the application open, and it instantly locates you, anywhere in the world where 2G or 3G data services are available. It shows you who is nearby along with what's nearby based on the venues others have added. Even better, it provides recommendations about these places: "Order the molten brownie -- for two!" or "Nick makes a great Aviation." It sounds trivial, but trust me on this: when you're looking for something new or wondering which of your friends is already at the show or any other similar social questions, services like Foursquare, Gowalla, and Loopt that combine check-in and location with recent historical comments are the answer.

5 short social media lessons
Terry Starbucker gives Small Business leaders social media 5 lessons that match 3 Tweeple-Bytes today.

@mhaworth: Social media is a means to an end - not the end itself. It is a new way of engaging in traditional marketing - a way of getting noticed
@RobRueLRFH: RT @juliealbaugh: Social Media is all about trust. If people do not trust you they will not do business with you. (via @LeesChicken)
@Digrafika: New study found 66 percent of respondents will be investing in social media marketing in 2010 - will you? http://tinyurl.com/yghcmag
Social Media has certainly hit a state of pervasiveness, so you better do something. Don't be in denial, its happening right now!
Social Media isn’t a panacea. This wont fix a bad business model- sorry!
Social Media will require you to address its usage among your employees. Its addictive!
Social Media has its own language protocol, and “company-speak” isn’t one of them . Just be real!
Social Media demands truth, and usually gets it. The sentence can be extreme if caught lying

Social media 10 stages and 3 voices
Vanessa Dimauro asks "..what is the most appropriate Twitter Voice for the company. There are many compelling voices on Twitter - personas, companies, experts sharers. Some focus on connecting and others serve as information channels. Most successful twitter business voices are both consistent, persistent, and useful to the audience in some way. " Consider the following 3:

Product-Centric Voice. In this strategy, the business humanizes the corporate voice by giving an identity to the channel
The Voice of the CEO The Voice of the CEO often blends personal and professional information in the twitter stream.
Customer Care Online Voice. Companies can often be more responsive to their users and buyers in a 24X7 environment

Now determine how you want to apply your new found persona within these 10 stages of social media as articulated by Brian Solis

Observe and Report
Setting the Stage + Dress Rehearsal
Socializing Media
Finding a Voice and a Sense of Purpose
Putting Words into Action
Humanizing the Brand and Defining the Experience
Community
Social Darwinism
The Socialization of Business Processes
Business Performance Metrics
The thing about new media is that it’s always new and as such, these stages represent a moment in time. They will continue to change, augment, and expand as new technologies, experiences, and innovations are introduced to those champions who can effectively integrate and learn from experimentation and assessment.
In the end, Social media is privilege and with it, we learn just one more piece of how to run a more meaningful and relevant business

Weekly Review Social Media and Small Business (Jan 23rd)

2010-01-23T04:57:00.000-08:00

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Your POD social media experience
Lisa Barone states that standing head and shoulders above the social media masses comes down to the experience you are creating. Its about what "..customers will remember, want to talk about and remain loyal to." Your POD experience does propels you in two ways: first, First, "it creates a story around your brand for your customers to share." Second, it "...helps foster a sense of community with your brand and gives customers a reason to keep coming back."

Lisa has a list on how a POD experience is created:

By playing on emotion and making interactions as personal as possiblePrice
By nurturing the values that YOU stand for.
Being interesting. Doing the same as everyone else doesn’t create an experience, it creates a ‘me too’
Knowing what’s important to your customer and finding the intersection in your brand.
Finding ways to become part of their daily life
Communication – communicating with them in an ongoing conversation
Giving customers something to take with them, even if it’s just a smile

4 P's 4 C's
Paul Dunay reminds of the 4 P's of Traditional marketing that were "...created mainly to describe the ideal “marketing mix”. The term “marketing mix” became popularized after Neil H. Borden published his 1964 article, Concept of the Marketing Mix."

Product
Price
Place
Promotion

With today's social media, consider the 4 C's as described by Paul...

Content – the creation of a steady stream of engaging content
Connection – connecting with the audience you wish to attract
Communication – communicating with them in an ongoing conversation
Conversion – and then converting them at the illusive moment of need

Small Business listens to Big Business
Stephen Pritchard is talking about the social experiences and directions (BIG business) Dell and IBM are paving for small business --- mostly because they have the money.

Social media outreach today is a natural extension of the way we started to interact with the internet when we started the Dell brand,” says Manish Mehta, vice-president for social media and community at Dell
The first thing we set out to understand is relevance. Next is the authority and influence [of the writer]
“the key to engaging successfully with social media – rather than antagonising its users – is to listen first and participate second
In 2006, we recognised the need to listen to all of the conversations happening in the blogosphere. If you now look at our reach on Twitter and Facebook, we are trying to embed social media in the fabric of how we do business
Your post might only have a few comments on it, but if behind you there are thousands of followers and those followers post thousands of times, the effect will be much greater
But often the power of the network itself does most of the work. We can highlight the deals – but often we don’t need to

Ur Twitter Marketing Style

Jason Falls doesn't suggest a right or wrong way and I am posting this so that you have examples for whatever style fits you right now.

The Conversationalist

prefer

Genuine but less direct

Follow:

The Conversational Marketer
Having a more obvious reason for being on Twitter -- with a stated purpose or objective
Regularly offers promotional items but will participate in daily conversation
Follow: @delloutlet @meijer @briansolis @mcdonalds (some heavy hitter here)
The Salesman
Using social media to promote greater than 50% of the time
Sell First, Engage Second
Follow: @jcpenny @phoenixsuns @chrysler @newyorker
The ~~Spammer~~ Broadcaster
Based on self promoting streams not criticism w/o participating in conversation
Follow: @nbc @raffbreck @tide @usweekly

Weekly Review Social Media and Small Business (Jan16th)

2010-01-16T05:03:00.000-08:00

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Small Business Marketing
According to Steven Spencer the consumer is living at a time where business is providing a seemingly unlimited amount of choices. Iconic brands have tried to push a choice upon us ..."Coke gives you with/without caffeine and with/without sugar . Ford and Chevy have nearly gone out of business by trying to offer too many choices, or more correctly, dictating what the consumer should choose. Bud gives you regular or lite. McDonalds is about the burger. These companies have used massive advertising to direct the consumer choice to their pre-determined, limited set of options." Empowering today's consumer, social media is providing options that just did not exist with traditional "OLD SCHOOL' marketing. "the older model had a marketing organization pre-determining a consumer’s choice through some form of market research and then marketing the heck out of those choices. Now, companies give the illusion of unlimited choices, monitor and track the actual choices that are made and then capitalize on those choices and utilize more subtle earns to influence those choices. Marketing is marketing. The techniques evolve, but the goals remain the same. Buy my product or service and not the other guys."

Small Business vs Social Media -- Game Plan
John Seroka says "Think about the last time you attended a major sporting event, such as a professional basketball game. One connection—an interest in how the team’s players will perform that day—brought you and thousands of people together. The idea of a shared connection helps explain why social media is now a dynamic marketing force for businesses."

First, you need to be a starter

communication skills

U tell me the metaphor / simile

The Game Plan
Identify your purpose, know your audience - Connect, Engage, and Share
Blogs - Provide value and build a community
Avoid sales pitching - Just don't do it
Know the tools available - I use hootsuite daily
The Arena - the differences between the two
Facebook
Twitter

Small Business Twitter
Lisa always has a great article and today she describes a typical conversation. "A small business owner comes to us looking for help promoting his or her business. We suggest using Twitter as a way to find new leads, build relationships and as an overall way to cost effectively market their business. The small business owner then turns around, tilts their head and responds, “Twitter? What can Twitter do for me?” ." Well let me give us some ideas...

Build Credibility
Answer common customer questions
Tweet often to keep your brand in customer’s top of mind
Be the one to break the news in your industry
Market Your Business
Talk about company culture and values
Hold contests
Let people know the events your company will be attending this year
Grow Ears
Track conversations about your brand for online reputation management
See how your competitors are interacting with customers
Ask people for their opinions. Listen to them
Grow Your Online Network
Use relationship building instead of cold calls and cheesy flyers
Host weekly Twitter chats to bring your community together and meet new folks
Use Twitter search to find relevant conversations you can jump into
Grow Your Offline Network
Hold tweetups and introduce your community members in real life
Tweet about products just arriving or hot food coming out of the oven
Ask Twitter followers to leave testimonials on your site
Have Fun
Use it as your office watercooler if you work from home
Make friendships, not just professional relationships.
Find content that inspires and motivates you

Small Business Jumping Ahead of Competition
Looking for Super and Simple Social media opportunities for Small Business? Pete Cashmore has 4 great ideas!

Get The Local Advantage
Foursquare, for instance, enables venues to provide special offers to users who "check in" to your business often.
Engage Your Critics-
2009 was truly the death of screwing the consumer
Co-Create
Who knows more about what your business should do in 2010 than your customers, partners and suppliers? Finding ways to bring their knowledge and expertise to bear on your decisions can be a major competitive advantage ... if it's done right (...checkout "My Starbucks Idea" site.)
Collaborate
There's no excuse...Try Google Docs or Basecamp

Weekly Review Social Media and Small Business (Jan9th)

2010-01-09T04:29:00.000-08:00

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Small Business Thinking with Our Outside Voice
How does your perspective match with these voices? read all 75 here

Katja Presnal - @katjapresnal
“The key to Twitter success is realizing it is all about community; and by supporting and helping others in your community makes your community to grow and prosper, including your own business.”
Melissa Garcia - @ConsumerQueen
“Make sure you are using the ‘Social’ part of Twitter! Don't just advertise, Engage with your followers! Make sure you follow the same advice you tweet out. People are watching you. Give yourself a personality on twitter!”
Jyl Johnson Pattee - @jylmomIF and @momitforward
“1) Be authentic and open. Open meaning opening yourself up to the possibility of lots and lots of friends, advice, information, news, fun, and opportunities. 2) Build friendships and/or business relationships. Take it one step further by converting those online relationships into offline friendships. Nothing like meeting someone on Twitter one week and having lunch with them the following week! And more than anything, 3) Do something positive with the space to help make it a safe, fun, trusting, and amazing community: Participate or host a fundraiser, share positive comments about others, retweet, reach out to Twitter newbies, offer tips or information, etc.”
Barb Likos - @chaotic_barb
“Twitter is all about making connections. You wouldn't stand on a table in the middle of a party and keep screaming your business commercial. Don't do it on twitter either! Unless people know YOU, your tweets about your business are being ignored!”
Linda Sellers - @shortpumppreppy
“Twitter has been the best tool to connect globally, but I find as much success connecting to local people and businesses that I might not find on my own. I'm amazed at how many times a new contact says ‘saw you on Twitter’. It's a fabulous way to introduce yourself and your business...your personality shines through!”

Social Perspective on Business
Looking at the Social side to give Business a leg-up on the Business of Social Media. Punam Keller looks a litter deeper on the Social side of Business and has interesting information that can help small business understand the Social side!

Sharing Brand Experience: Instantaneous information being share at an increasing rate of accessibility with a high level of accuracy which is not based on paid opinions seeded by the Brand.
No longer do customers want to be regarded as the "Target Audience". They want to be involved in the development and experience of the Brand
The Average JOE will be the new spokesperson
Consumers are increasingly weighing the Social impact Brands have upon society at a global level
MORE....

Social Media Budget
Which statement best describes how social media marketing is perceived within your organization at budget time? This is the question asked by the marketingsherpa

Small Business Work

Social media can be simple, fun, engaging...Social media is work. Lauren Fisher goes as far to say that having your small business become social media-izd by signing up at your favorite social ~~sites~~ malls is only 1% of the effort. The other 99% comes from building an active social community around your brand. Who knows your business the best? You! "Don’t get mis-sold with the fancy tools and designs. They’re not going to sell themselves and the real skill comes in knowing how to take these tools and convert them into actual conversations that are a benefit to your business." Connect, Engage, and Share.

Small Business Strategy
Kim States (CEO) BBB Southern Arizona says that small businesses are shifting strategy and dollars to include more engagements with social media. 70 percent of small business plan to increase social media while at the same time 79 percent of small business say they will not run traditional media advertisements. Kim offers this suggestion, "after having plunged into the social media “pool” myself about eight months ago, I have one piece of advice for small business owners: don’t plunge in." Her article offers tips on how to Connect, Engage, and Share.

Remember, being social is a behavior not a tool.

Don’t go in thinking about ROI: Start by Thinking Networking not Numbers
Focus on the actions that matter: Listen Give Engage
Schedule time for it: Just like anything else of Value
Seek out local prospects: Its about selling awareness
Look outside Twitter the box: Social Malls all accross the Web
Learn from those before you: Top 150 social influencers
Take it Offline: We were social off line first!

Small Business MC
The 10 Commandments of Marketing Today. Augustine Fou, has more details in his article, but here are his 10 Commandments:

Thou shalt not target customers with messages they don't want. (No "Push" Ads)
Thou shalt be truthful. (Too many voices - stop the SPIN)
Thou shalt respect your customers. (Today's Customers R empowered)
Thou shalt make it easy for people to find you. (Be where UR customers R)
Thou shalt be useful. (Add value)
Thou shalt make it easy for people to pass along. ( Use Ur social tools )
Thou shalt measure and optimize. ( Yes )
Thou shalt listen to customers. ( Because Ur past, present, future customers will )
Thou shalt remove any organizational barriers to speedy, collaborative innovation. (speak w 1 voice )
Thou shalt not do brand-ing. ( the act of telling what UR brand is... )

2010-Tweeple-Bytes

2009-12-22T10:28:00.001-08:00

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MondayApril 26th
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@Procab: RT @DeepSpaceMKTG: "81 percent of small businesses surveyed don’t use social media", read this surprising report #in http://bit.ly/b91T0y
@123MainSt: What is Social Media? - Now that more than 75 percent of online Americans are participating in some form of social ... http://ow.ly/179NMG
@sarunasr: Social media traffic is notoriously impatient #quote Mike Reale #SCORE http://myloc.me/6mC0V
@ksonney: RT @howardtayler: "Social media should be the last thing you worry about in your marketing plan." Great quote. Get everything else in place FIRST.
@iamjennyh: “If content is king, then conversion is queen.” – John Munsell, CEO of Bizzuka http://ow.ly/1CgHR fav social media
@WordsAreFood: Whoops, last wasn't 4th rule, just good stuff. More: "social media isn't about u, it's about everyone else."
@SocialMediaSean: Social Media is like Jazz . It don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing! What makes your brand shine?
@iexposure: RT @HannahPoferl: Ha!!! RT @JZMrWrite: Outsourcing social media is like hiring a guy to date your girlfriend. Neither relationship has long term potential.
@balamagica: RT @luciamalla "Social media is not a phenomena anymore, it's already integrated in our lives."
@stephenfairley: Social media is not a strategy or a tactic –It’s a Tool to help you join the conversation and Get Your Message Out! http://bit.ly/btrUw7

Friday April 23rd
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@TrisWebb: RT @JThomlinson: Social media is like a pinball machine - u don't have control, can't interrupt, and need to find the multiplayers. Love that!!! #prdigital
@HeroStudio: RT @Schwartzie14: "Social media is not the savior. It's a way to spread the gospel." (via Rebecca Rivera's Fbook page.)
@drewcashmore: If protecting ur brand is more important than open conversation w ur customers, success in social media is not an option http://j.mp/aDznnI
@kenips: RT @forrester: RT @miladantonio: In 2007 52 percent of adults were not involved in social media. Today inactives total 17 percent. #fmf10
@amrishj: “Ride the change or change will ride you.” ~ANON #quote #india #Internet #digital #social #media
@dietdewtime: Social Media Quote for today: "Loyalty is passive but advocacy is active". Companies need customer advocates, not just loyal customers.
@rassina: RT @iwantmedia: Media Quote of the Day - Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg: "We're building toward a Web where the default is social" http://bit.ly/9aygR
@jeffbullas: Only 29% Of Companies Have A Social Media Policy: Is Your Company At Risk? http://bit.ly/b8hZzT
@prnaylor: social media should be 1% of 100 people's jobs rather than 100% of one person's job. /via @steverubel /via @montelutz (via @steverubel)
@MiChmski: OK, if we can agree there has to be a human element in social media #monitoring; Q1: What % do you trust to tools? to humans?

Thursday April 22nd
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@Forga05: RT @2Hope05 73 percent of online women are active social media users: http://bit.ly/bm5NnM via @markraganceo #socialmedia #business #stats
@coreyanderson: 70 percent of business to use social media in 2010 Dynamic Business http://ow.ly/1Bv1p // true.
@mperron: RT @xurxovidal Great lunch today w/ @MarkGoren & @mperron. Quote from meeting: "Success w/ Social Media Starts With Learning How to Listen"
@sebmarcoux: Best Quote by @ChrisBrogan: There's no social media department. Thats like saying there's a fax dept. RT @SabrinaCote RT @msullivan #rdvweb
@marketingfltr: RT @djwaldow Another killer @jaybaer quote, "Social media isn’t inexpensive, it’s different expensive." http://idek.net/1Mtg
@Grobi: Nice quote from @minethatdata "when customers interact with employees, customer lifetime value improves." That's what Social Media is about.
@Mary_Mekelburg: RT @SMMagic: #socialmedia Tip! Want to get the most out of your social media experience? Then be prepared to give!
@KimBrame: RT @treypennington: RT @JeffElder "Social media is not tech. It's knowing who you're talking to, and giving them value." Author Mitch Joel in Austin #SCS10
@NLCSocialMedia: Social media is not about promotion, it's about engagement.
@MrsZee: Why social media works for advertisers: RT @blogging4jobs: 78% of customers trust peer recommendations.

Wednesday April 21st
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@pbparrot: Social Media Tip ::: Social Media hook up to your business website means higher rankings on the search engines. Updates on all on a...
@social_smallbiz: #tip Just give it a go – sometimes with social media, the best way to learn is just to get going http://bit.ly/8gORmb
@MickGriffin: #adtechsf Social Media tip - fish where the fish are.
@anthrotech: SOCIAL MEDIA TIP: 6.2 million new twitter accounts are activated every month. That’s 2-3 new accounts every...(second) http://bit.ly/c7o47M
@j8ke: Perfect example of the 80/20 rule http://bit.ly/cP2iPi only 16% of social media users generate 80% of the per-to-per impressions
@Rita_zahir: "coupons were first form of social media marketing" friends talking & sharing about products #adtech quote
@snowkitten: Social media is a way to engage customers, not to give your business a shout out's; - Carol Roth #quote
@Faslist: RT @SRPconsultancy Top 5 Tips for Social Media Marketing: 77 percent of all Internet users read blogs. http://bit.ly/9eDCoB
@clockingin: RT @GVTC_Com: Facebook now accounts for 41 percent of all social media traffic. http://bit.ly/aHcqHS Has Twitter been overcome?
@ExigenceGroup: RT @ksuzan: STAT >> "600 hospitals in the United States (about 10 percent of all US hospitals), were reporting use of some form of social media."

Tuesday April 20th
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@Extraterrestric Social media is like kissing - personal, powerful & if you're paying someone to teach you how to do it you've got problems. /by @warkmalsh
@tcar If you don't trust what your employees are saying online, that's an HR issue, not a social media issue. - @gingerw #aei
@iworldtrans RT @InEveryLanguage: RT @renatobeninatto: Today's business w/out social media is like not having business card or site --@rinaneeman #NDIst
@jocelyn_lai Sometimes, social media is like an increasing # of patrons at a bar. Gets louder and more crowded through the night. And everyone's talking.
@CUServiceCenter The # 1 golden rule of social media is not to sell just listen & talk @coopthinkconf
@summerjoy social media is not a conversation. it's where the conversation happens. you can't just show up to the party (@jaybaer) #sofresh
@NickFooter # 1 rule. Have a social media strategy. Don't just ready, fire, aim. http://bit.ly/9XKoiP
@melissamoog RT @ThinkBIG_Blog Word of mouth is best advertising. It's also the worst. Manage perception & dialogue w/ branding (includes social media)
@aynbrand "Social media is about people, not logos." {RT @jaybaer @sofresh @jamesbrittonjr {We agree. Branding is about people, not logos, too.
@CarlosMSouzaJr RT @socialedge: RT @jameselbaor: 4 success factors for social media: Patience, Authenticity, Passion, and Transparency #swf10 (@jimmyrandomf)

Monday April 19th
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@pvesey a survey of 1,700 U.S. Internet users, found that 73 percent engaged in social media at least once per week. http://ow.ly/1A1a8
@BourgogneLive Create & Share ! RT @RickBakas:Social Media #QuickBites tip #7 Be a Conduit of Useful Information-http://bit.ly/btYp3u
@abbytron RT @EMPSFM: Favorite quote so far: "I think social media has prolonged a lot of peoples adolesence" Marisa Meltzer #emp2010
@urkidnrite thx @roughmac following @lesanto "There is no such thing as a Social Media 'expert'. We are all explorers in this new landscape." #quote
@brendameller RT @sanaahmed: Social Media is entering the stage of social commerce.Upcoming social media superstars who make the impressions & build relationships rule
@Mitch_M RT @PaddyShaughn: Social Media is not a monologue or dialogue, but a trialogue. // Interesting premise, but it makes sense
@iechen Social media is not a quick fix. It could amplify ur problems. #coopthinkconf
@lisalarter Social Media is not an ATM machine! @MariSmith love it!
@AlexResolutions Social media a commerce-driven necessity: “Social media is not about technology and tools, it's really about peopl... http://bit.ly/bcNQsB
@manuelkoelman: Social media often leaves non-web2.0 people confused. Who to trust? Credibility is gaining in importance. Transparency and honesty are key.

Friday April 16th
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@webacom: Social Media Tip: In order to engage in a customer community you need to be in touch with the buzz about your business. http://bit.ly/boyl1F
@marcbaumann: Tip for corporations: "Social Media works best when handled by the communications team - and not by the marketing department" #sm201 #smm
@ThatSalesGuy: RT @marcbaumann: Great tip from @shaunacausey "Look at your company goals, then create social media strategies - should be a natural extension." #sm201 #smm
@joellewoodruff: Social media tip #1 from :;9: "Nobody shops at a cocktail party" - I know so many ppl who would agree too! #tp2010
@nps_norlight: RT @eppand: Social Media Optimization tip -> Make your content shareable! #social #SoMe #smo
@brandadoption: Social Media Marketing tip: Listen to fans, listen some more, build a good relationship, share your content and then start the process over!
@dreskiz: Rule 1: do not announce your annoyances over social media.
@cherylrice: First rule of social media ... Transparency. (@skydiver)
@Krochmal: Nielsen Online found that 73 percent of US online people engaged in social media at least once per week.Total U.S.... http://bit.ly/cBilGQ
@brent_halstead: Need any more proof social media is not a fad? RT @twimarketing: Library of Congress to Preserve Tweets for Eternity http://bit.ly/c19ulc

Thursday April 15th
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@SteveHeye: "Conversations yield. People no longer have to be talked at." quote from good blog on social media by @lizstrauss http://bit.ly/avs1kZ
@sechristiansen: #infotec2010 #crowd great quote, "social media gives you the opportunity to personally respond before any situation gets out of hand."
@DallasSEOGuru: RT @keyrelevance: Quote from Scott Stratten: If your product sucks, social media makes it suck worse. #pubcon
@merrybubbles: Like planning a "perfect party," the use of social media requires careful consideration of the guest list - @boggles with @SEWatch #quote
@coachpeterson: RT @michellek107: New fave quote: "[Banning social media] did not encourage the pupils to take responsibility for their actions.” http://bit.ly/aCt3ny
@trinahess: RT @DaveNelsen: Rule #1 for social media: PIE - that is personality + interesting + entertaining!
@HollyPavlika: Fuelisms:#2 of 66 Have a plan before you start any social media campaign. Social media is not about tactics -– it is about strategies
@infodiligo: Home Builders Not Sold on the Power of Social Media: Just 59 percent of builders said they currently use social me... http://bit.ly/a9MOpV
@JessGrigg: RT @MichealBMcCaul: Social Media job listings on employment sites are growing at more than 1,300 percent per annum. http://bit.ly/cvFN0N
@Spiderworking: 69 percent of decision makers at businesses used social media for business purposes: http://ow.ly/1x9pf

Wednesday April 14th
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@socialsynd: Social Media Today: Inactivity Matters: 83 Percent of Online Friends are Fakes http://eh.ly/b2C6Mr #Social_Networks
@vallejos: RT @mashable #news New Study Shows the Mobile Web Will Rule by 2015 [STATS]: In a dense, 87-page re... http://bit.ly/9jChzT #social #media
@desireescales: I quote @meghab If your social media expert has no business experience it won't work. Business fundamentals are key to social media success.
@NahumG: RT @ClearedJobsNet: Hearing from the VHA: gr8t quote: Social media is anything that starts a conversation #SMGOV
@DogHouseK9Coach: RT @shanegibson: Social Media Tip: Social media is not a video game, faux friends do not always = profit. Get real and have deep interaction
@businessbragger: Social Media Tip of the Day: A successful relationship is the end result of participating in the conversation... http://bit.ly/cOrW6J
@ParchmentRepub: "Social Media is like YOGA for Online Marketers - It stretches your reach into places you once thought inaccessible" Dominika Gorecki
@Kblakewood: "Social media is not necessarily a driver of consumer behavior but rather a reflector"
@sharonmostyn: RT @NancyMyrland: "Social Media is not an island. We need to integrate in to our traditional marketing plan." -- @pamelamuldoon #ISMA
@FiftyPlusOne: "best social media metric--how many people trust you."#SMBSeattle

Tuesday April 13th
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@ClareCockroft: 48 percent of social media users check or update Facebook and/or Twitter after they go to bed http://bit.ly/b9SEJ0
@peterhimler: RT @lavrusik: 50 percent of the U.S. population (according to a sampling of 1,753 people) have a social media profile - http://bit.ly/dAZbWZ
@thegoogleguy: great quote from ed kicker in @adnews: "social media is a state of mind not a technology." http://bit.ly/aoVwSg
@KarlSakas: RT @waynesutton Quote from @tfrommer of @starbucks on social media "Don't outsource your voice!" &"don't think social media is a fad" #sgf10
@ChangWooUWSP: Q4: I think social media brought us need of mother nature, care, listen, compromise, ... As time goes on, femininity may rule. #journchat
@dorait: RT @joesat: 1:9:90 RULE of Wisdom of crowds in Social media is that 1 person will create, 9 will vote on it, 90 will consume it #BCC3
@geehall1: RT @getbiglittlekid: Social media is like Spiderman - with great power comes great responsibility. #digicitz [Interesting comparison]
@baptistelimb: RT @pabloalustiza: "Social media is like a virtual brain, and every internet user is one of its neurones." http://eurorscgsocial.com/?p=776
@buffybs: RT @johnhodgins: Social media is like butter. Not tasty alone, but makes things better when added. #10ntc.smr
@CandysFamily: RT @tealou: Social Media is not about computers, technologies, or even IT. It's about changing the way you communicate with people.
Agreed
@Useful_Deals: Social media is not new. The tools of the trade have changed but the concept remains the same.

Friday April 9th
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@neobion09: RT @adrielhampton: I find 99 percent of the value of social media in the ability to scale peer-to-peer relationships. #gov20 #polis20 #citizen20
@pvesey Nearly 90 percent of the 500 companies surveyed said they have not used social networking sites for information or business advice (http://ow.ly/1wpT2 )
@TownSquareGroup: RT @YumaBizOnline: RT @ElyseTager: Social Media Tip: Start with the Customer, and work BACKWARDS - http://www.elymedia.com/blog/?p=625
@Chadodesign: Chado Social Media Tip: Mainly listen when engaging customers via social media. Your conversation should be 80% listening 20% talking
@1Richards: RT @JaclynLeigh: "social media is my operating system for life" grt quote @krochmal! Absolutly agree that journ is abt engaging people...
@bootyp: Social media is not a one night stand. It's a commitment. <--- Love THIS quote #PRSMS
@jenncloud: RT @kannataylor: Offer before you ask. In social media you reap what you sow. #amastl > FANTASTIC foundational rule!
@fuzzypug: RT @mollylynch: Social media is like the weather: it impedes and affects life. Still, some try unsuccessfully to avoid it.
@jinscho: Conventional media publishing features on social media is like McDonalds selling veggie burgers
@designsojourn: @true_chris yes Social Media is like grease that helps the gears to move quicker, but you still need the gears to be in place.

Thursday April 8th
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@JustinHerman: RT @localgovchat: Q1 part 1 New study http://bit.ly/d6iV7S estimates 50 percent of localgovs using social media, but just handful having impact. #localgovchat
@tserani: Only 16 percent of small businesses use social media to connect with potential customers and business partners! @BizBox http://ow.ly/1vkzq
@JazzyConsulting: Social Media Tip #2 Branding-"You are what you tweet!"
@markgr: New quote for my social media talks: "There is an inverse relationship between control and trust" - David Weinberger
@Nathan_Wear: RT @mikesansone: RT @swonderlin Social media is like a piano. We all have access 2 same keys. But what song are you going to play? @Iconic88
@AnthonyRusso: @theredheadsaid Social Media is like a river. Try to drink it all and you will drown, but the sips here and there can be very refreshing.
@Stargazer_Girl: Interesting RT @andreabaxter: Social media is not a tool of radical transformative change. It's an instrument of the status quo. #f5expo
@cahidalgo: @abneedles Peer to Peer influence is king - social media enables the ability to speak to more peers in more formats - #B2BUniversity
@randyfmyers: RT @dotjenna: The 3 most important things to do with social media marketing is 1. Make friends, 2. Engage, 3. Bring Value. #sales #dotstips #in
@JazzyConsulting: Social Media Tip #3 Focus on building relationships through personal updates, your products/services will sell themselves!

Tuesday April 7th
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@JimSchwab Tip #4of5,Social Media Monitoring; DEMOGRAPHICS ARE HARD TO COME BY but themes opinion reactions 2 ur ads r plentiful http://ow.ly/1vj6t
@danielmobrien A great tip for anyone participating in social media - if you act with civility and integrity, we all win: http://bit.ly/cWga9T #socialmedia
@ory_vaden Social Media Tip: Gain Twitter followers by re-tweeting people who are interested in what you’re interested in and who put up good content.
@markbusse Social Media Tip 1: Video adds visibility & increases effectiveness. Not everyone likes to read, but like watching video. Duh. #SMSS10
@khightower When does social media use go overboard? Using it during sex, like 11 percent of iPhone users admit 2 in this study: http://ow.ly/1vkXd
@The_Wine_Place RT Social media: its not you and them, you ARE them. quote from @thirstforwine #s4startups
@etbarry social media is like playing the game telephone, the story gets changed a little along the way, always be aware of content #ESM
@gregglhartley: RT @justinflitter: social media is not marketing, pr, advertising - its the whole company! #cnow thats why you need a conductor @briansolis
@jonmoser: ISZL: using social media is not a choice, this is where your audience is. Give them information but always bring them back to your site.
@tracetv: Hey! it's not brain surgery! Social Media Simple > http://tracetv.tv/513/social-media-simpl... have fun - best, T

Tuesday April 6th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@ dian_noeh: RT @MarkRaganCEO: 70 percent of social media pitches end in coverage, according to new survey. Amazing if true! http://bit.ly/coT74k
@mlmoore2: Social Media #1 Rule is engage the customer in conversation that is relevant to their life. The rest is simply the details of doing it.
@Sue_Anne: RT @djwaldow: "Social Media is about sociology and psychology more than technology." Yet another killer @briansolis quote. #radian6 webinar
@itvibes: Social Media tip: Every business for itself is not going to work. It's time to start interacting & contributing. http://bit.ly/anJ48D
@resourcetank: Social media is like ants on an ant hill!
@MaijaTantere: @STelinkangas Quote EskoKilpi: Writing is my tool for thinking. Social media are my tool for thinking together http://eskokilpi.blogging.fi/
@diginomics RT @MichaelGoins New survey finds only 16 percent of small business using social media: http://tinyurl.com/y8qlvu2
@SweetSoaps #journchat Q20: indies rule news. U must blog,video& use social media well. Those who do rule like Gods. Interactive 24/7=trust
@monaele Good tip from Coke on social media: "It's not that expensive to start the conversation, just make sure you have the budget to keep it going";
@ReidTFSM Social Media (or life) Tip O' The Day: Don't be everything to everyone, just be something to someone.

Wednesday April 1st

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@hey_danielli: "Social Marketing Rule #2: Only real people, not brand personas, can build real relationships." http://bit.ly/dC46fr (via @clayparkerjones)
@PowerfulHER: Most definitely!!! RT @margaretmolloy Social media is an amazing listening platform. A case of be careful what you ask for ? #quote
@hthrroth: Favorite quote so far: RT @ColoradoAMA "Social Media is a huge focus group, the richest data set that's ever existed." @DNeely40 #DD2010
@westorlandonews: The majority of small businesses (52 percent) believe having a social media presence is important for companies, according to the Small B... (usiness Assiociation)
@SusiBoo: over 90 percent of journalists use social media to research stories. social media helps make their lives easier: http://bit.ly/cT1B3y
@leahsoleil: RT @SeanKGriffin: Always> Be yourself and revel in that. ~Social Media Tip #593 via @mgtodd
@Chadodesign: Chado Social Media Tip: Have more than one department handle social media, complete operational integration adds value!
@Brooksnosirra2: random thought: social media is like being with a group in room where no one ever shuts up!
@mariyell: Lunch with the president of the company, I learned a new way to explain this industry: Social media is like the wild wild west.
@AndyMusgrove: As requested by @ReyInsurance Social Media is like the Grand Canyon, you don't appreciate it's size until you're on the cliff!!

Wednesday March 31th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@JadeYG: RT @EkaterinaWalter: Social Media is NOT free if done right! #imsatl
@PinkertonDesign: "social media is like exercise -doing a little bit consistently everyday will produce better results than one 8 hr marathon per month."
@DestineenBi77: - forty-five percent of employers use social media sites like Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, and LinkedIn to screen job applicants.
@BruceNuffer: 8 percent of companies have dismissed employees as a result of their actions on social media sites. http://bit.ly/ajmVCF
@stephenoleary: There are no experts. Only those with more experience. Nice quote from Tim Hurles re social media @ #ndmms
@jaleel: Very true ... RT @TheAnand: The head of social media is the customer - #quote
@holly_woolard: RT @joshgroth: My fav quote from #sofresh "Social media is a laxative. You can no longer hold in what you want to keep inside" via @skydiver
@Monumental13: RT @ergeekgoddess: @Monumental13 that's certainly the way it works: reciprocity is the cardinal rule in social media and in life #Latism
@DirkMaarten: #fanbased marketing #social media marketing: a brand is not defined by only fans, but also by its enemies. Who's gonna research that?

Tuesday March 30th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@ThePRwriter: Study: 39 percent of companies’ social media is handled by a PR firm ~ http://ow.ly/1sjtX
@Bethgranter: @briansolis love this quote: "Social media is the democratization of information and the equalization of influence." http://bit.ly/bolgNk
@EdHartigan: “The problem with brands in social media is that they act like 19 year old dudes” (@garyvee) - Great quote! - http://bit.ly/bDUAgo
@mediafortemktg: Nice quote Time Magazine "Social media have turned the world into one big living room. The future belongs to those who pull up a chair."
@martsgirl: Social Media Tip: Strategy should always precede activity. #vaclassroom
@Chadodesign: Chado social media tip: Centralize your social media activities to your main site as a homebase to increase SEO
@StanGott: Tip - Engage with consumers by providing value - great article re RT @socialmedia2day 5 Social Media Pitfalls to Avoid http://bit.ly/cis9QB
@goingsocialnow: Social media is like naked democracy, the masses will win, if you are not part of the conversation, you can’t vote.
@elhathaway: RT @susanbeebe: Remember grade school? Well, Social Media is like Jump rope. You just jump in when the timing is right... don't expect an invitation - JUMP!
@LJZuber: RT @DPBell: Social media is not a fad, it is a fundamental shift in how we communicate.

Monday March 29th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@siriusdecisions: Based on our research, b-to-b organizations can experience as much as a 30 percent lift in response rates when adding social media
@rgeller: RT @PR_Strategies: study by Duke MBA School & AMA suggests social media spending will be nearly 20 percent of marketing budgets by 2015.
@bluestockingPR: RT @social_smallbiz: #tip A blend of traditional & social media is effective when reaching different age demographics http://bit.ly/9ts2tA
@Mike_Wolfsohn: RT @naomimimi: HR tip for social media: we're a small community—don't wait 3 wks to tell someone they didn't get the job. they already knew.
@weshartline: Direct Quote "MySpace is the Detroit of social media...you know, kinda gross." @matthewhurtt
@ateegarden: "When it comes to Social Media especially, if you stand up and listen it's not hard to eventually stand out"-Me #quote #socialmedia
@donna_carlsson: Writing a social media guide line for teenage parents. Rule nr 1; Dont add their friends. Let them add you.
@LianamarDS: RT @SarenaBahad RT @AdrianEden Social Media is like riding a bike; takes a while to learn but then becomes second nature, a function of life
@patrickcurl: @AdrianEden I disagree social media is not like riding a bike, cause each day there's new technologies to learn, where a bike rarely changes
@ejohnson777: RT @dotjenna: Social media is like a glass window into your character; if you're greedy, seedy or needy, we'll all know it. ~ dotJenna

Friday March 26th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@twmg: RT @Weal_Media: 82 percent jump in Social Media usage. The average Internet user spends approx 5.5 hours/month on #socialmedia sites. http://bit.ly/actD4L
@pampalinka: RT @StatickBc: Report: Social Media Is Helpful Not Harmful To Email Marketing: More than 40 percent of business executives surv... http://twurl.nl/8zxtpt
@margaritaatbio: #1 rule of corporate social media: don't use slang. i don't want to be asked if i'm "down" with something ever again...
@KellyeCrane: @shonali Hello #iabccle! Tip: turn your supporters into advocates on your behalf. Social Media makes this much easier to do
@HarrisonPainter: "facebook is the Super Wal-Mart of Social Media" ~@BrianTomkins #quote
@Mid247: RT @LearnNuggets: You hired them. Why dont u trust them?" If employees r unproductive, they were long b4 social media! @moehlert #ls2010
@BillNigh: RT @JohnNosta: TRUST and AUTHENTICITY is key in today’s marketing. People trust PEERS, not corporations. There we have social media!!
@brandyscoggan: "Social media is like a river, you just jump in." @jenny_blake. Learning how Delicious and Google Reader can help you manage. #5socialtools
@turisbo: RT: @NachoGiral: Social Media is like French food...you have no idea what you are eating, but you have been told its good.
Send me a Tweeple-Byte

Thursday March 25th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@TomFlynn3 60 percent of patients use blogs and other social media for health information. #1 source for cancer info? The web. http://ow.ly/1qgjp
@OrchideaPR Poles accept the presence of brands in social media. 25 percent of them interact by commenting the posts published on companies' profile
GabrielCarrejo RT @LincolnBuff2: RT @vdimauro: Social media is like world peace, everyone thinks its a good idea but it means something different to every1
SweetJohn Or an adult game of "telephone"... RT @sassy321: social media is like one big constant adult "show and tell"...
@peteberol Musings while waiting for airplanes: "Social Media is not a business model anymore than a brochure is marketing."
@luciesydney RT @HHotelConsult: RT @superlisa: #smtravel Best quote: ignoring social media today is like ignoring google in 1999
@theluckdoctor #quote Advertising grabs eyes, Social Media grabs hearts
@aSALESangel RT @HeatherLutze: Internet Quote: It’s better to think of social media tools as amplifying customer opinion rather than improving it- Joshua Porter
@ ErinMonigold A great quote I ran across today about social media marketing. “New marketing is about the relationships, not the medium.” - Ben Grossman
@anissen @Grayum_ian A: establish trust early in the sales cycle with your customers via social media. Influence the behaviour before the sale

Wednesday March 24th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@KesSampanthar: @Umatter2Chtr2 In a low trust environment, social media can be used to gain trust by listening to the customer not blaming them
@DebbieZachry: RT @CyberDivaVA: social media=establishing & building relationships based on trust. Not a quick fix!! Not like a diet pill you're...'
@acclamatio: "Social Media makes every company accountable for their transparency.": The Most Important Elements of Social Marketing- http://ow.ly/1eZYQ
@knatchwa: RT @Jim_Gray: RE: @potsc i go back to a simple principle...social media is about people, not technology. http://disq.us/dkklv
@berti_sullivan: 64 percent of congressional staff prefer to gauge constituent opinions thru social media. Almost half of congress uses Twitter #prnmeasure
@learnsocialmktg: Social Media Tip of the Day: Is it time to get a new business card with your Facebook page and Twitter Name added to ur contact info?
@prbill6: RT @azprgal: Tip for the Day - Social Media is about ENGAGEMENT. If you're constantly telling everyone what you R doing, that is bragging, not engaging!
@jeffbullas: Only 29% Of Companies Have A Social Media Policy: Is Your Company At Risk? http://bit.ly/b8hZzT
@bethschecher: "Social Media is not a replacement for a good marketing plan". Do you have a marketing plan for your small... http://bit.ly/attsvB
@carikaplan: RT @Marc_Meyer: Social Media is not like leggo, you just don't snap the pieces in place and go..some very large Co.'s just don't get that #sm52

Tuesday March 23rd

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@paulsegreto: RT @Rieva: RT @smallbizInSite: AT&T survey results: 10 percent of SMBs use social media as a way to generate sales. How/why do you use social media?
@rick_vb: According to the survey, 93 percent of social media users believe a company should have a presence in social media... http://bit.ly/13r1x0
@JoeStengele: 85% of 18-29 year olds use social media 1x/week according to Leadership Journal of @CTmagazine. I wonder what percent uses it daily
@BuyCincy: First rule: "Relationships, Not Pitches" RT @mashable: How Small Businesses Are Using Social Media for Real Results - http://bit.ly/9HUhyq
@CourtSpencer: The Martha Stewart Rule of social media: "Throw your own party; don't just cater someone else's" #socialmedia
@louderdevelop: Going through notes + found quote fr/ @Tom_Watson on social media: "The way I absorb info has changed the way I operate as a politician."
@PutCustomers1st: #quote The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority. ~ Kenneth Blanchard - that is proven in social media, yes?
@TheSuperGroup: RT @juleszunich: Favorite #PR quote today from @TheSuperGroup: Social Media is the plate, not the meal. Right on!
@PCZ: RT @tdebaillon: Adweek "one of the most powerful aspects of social media is not conversation, it is that it can become a service" #escpm2c
@Chachrist: RT @tudut: RT @lekasina: "Social Media is not new media but it is NOW media ...by @RongLive #SMCON"

Monday March 22th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@mm_modman: RT @bespoken4: So true. RT @WomenWhoTech "You can teach people social media, but you can't teach them people skills." great quote by @geoffliving
@han_ma: Favorite #PR quote today from @TheSuperGroup: Social Media is the plate, not the meal. Right on!
@amy_grech: RT @rdickerson: RT @VampireFaust: "No one wants to date the most desperate person at the party." Quote from social media #sxsw panel.
@ericblue: If you believe the 10,000 hours rule (practice needed to become an expert)... how could this even apply to social media?
@vicdelgui86: Forty-two percent said they check and/or update their social media profiles first thing in the morning. http://bit.ly/9izBSk
@squamish_homes: RT @georgemoen: Some Data On Social Media Use -13 percent of Baby Boomers maintain Twitter accounts http://bit.ly/bXsto2
@bradleyklaus: "upward of 20 percent of traffic to brand websites today comes from.... a social media initiative" http://bit.ly/c3ZkM2
@stepaheadinc: 55 percent of women access social media from smartphones, but only 45 percent of men do.What's holding the fellasback? http://bit.ly/bD3uhJ
@merrybubbles: RT @prospectstudio (via @BeckySocial): Social media is like a marriage - u cannot fake it, u need 2 b committed. Kevin AYers, LinkedIn #SMWF
@djwaldow: .@karimacatherine i hear you, but social media is not new concept, right? be human. talk to people. learn what they want. respond #blogchat

Friday March 19th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@CourtSpencer: 48 percent of social media users check or update Facebook and/or Twitter after they go to bed http://ow.ly/1oqZm
@KEFmedia: Social media stats including: 23 percent of iPhone users get their news primarily from Twitter and Facebook... http://bit.ly/aGsvZp
@sdufaux: Are We Addicted To Social Media? 55 percent of users over the age of 25 check Facebook at least once a day. http://su.pr/2BN24C
@jmctigue: Consumers up to 67 percent more likely to buy products after following them on social media sites - http://bit.ly/91BEXN
@mnpr: 53 percent of companies aren't monitoring social media at all! http://yfrog.com/i3rpfbj #EASMconf
@robertmentoring: Social Media Tip: "Steps to Building Rapport Online...#1. Add Value #2. Be Real #3. Communicate in a Friend to Friend Style!" Frank Kent #fb
@leoruffini: Good tip for Social Media newbies like me: "People are not there to hear a sales pitch, but to learn something" From http://bit.ly/c3CrHl
@eddiefairchild: RT: @Zsavonne Social media etiquette tip: Give credit where credit's due (be sweet & RT). Provide content relevant to your audience.
@JosephWCrawford: Social media is like exercise. Doing a little everyday will produce better results than one 8 hr session per month. http://bit.ly/d659JP
@janstrassen: @lesanto Social media may be poor for direct selling of goods but as it's a trust building medium it's very good for selling services

Thursday March 18th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@webadvertisepro: Great tip: Social Media Tip: What’s Published Online Is Public and Searchable http://bit.ly/b6Brjp
@inmed_institut: RT @bloggingbistro: Social Media Tip #76 Writing guest posts for other blogs is a great way to generate links ... http://bit.ly/cHae5r
@craigsutton: Social Media Tip for Wineries!, saying "new blog post" is engaging to your audience if they care, tricking them to click is not :) #wine
@Activ8business: Social Media Tip - Post a professional/business casual photos of yourself to reinforce your brand #facebook #twitter #linkedIn #activ8
@elisamarcus: Saw this quote in an AOL article kinda true "Big Brother may not be watching, but there's no hiding from social media."
@Stratevate: Excellent quote for companies using social media. "Caring is underrated." At the EOD, its a customer service business. http://ow.ly/1nqU2
@KurtBehrenfeld: B2B marketers to increase social media spend 43 percent in 2010 http://bit.ly/adFlOT
@karlrohde: Friends trust friends: Time for companies to embrace social media marketing - http://ow.ly/1ndy3
@EdBennett: RT @LisaRedShoesPR: Told someone today, "Don't get overwhelmed by all this social media stuff. It's really as simple as you and I sitting here talking."
@fetchplus: @colleendebaise social media is not free. human capital comes with a price tag. #smallbizchat

Wednesday March 17th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@twitt3rnews: davewiner: Less than 0.2 percent of people who use Twitter wind up going to news and media sites from the social-ne(tworks)... http://ow.ly/16P5ke
@blueskycomm: New survey finds 70 percent of marketers worldwide either use or will use social media in 2010: http://tinyurl.com/yzoylvj
@DigiGadget: Study: Smartphone users more inclined to use devices for social media: The study found that while 22.5 percent of ... http://bit.ly/cRWV7r
@GgStoilova: Twitter is the number one choice for the seventy nine percent Fortune Global 100 companies who use social media platforms...
@sprabu: Towers Watson's research says that social media is not on the radar of HR professionals. That is too bad.
@stilltalkin: Social media is not a 1 night stand, it's a long term relationship - most retweeted line last night #atsyd2
@fransgaard: Blog post: The power of Social Media is not in the answers, it is in the questions it makes you ask http://post.ly/T8ML
@abstractanalyst: Industry rule 4053 never complain about work/boss on company computers,emails or social media!
@watfordgap: In the #bsbhbu session on social media - First rule - who are the audience
@KickSkirt: Quote of the day: we can’t treat social media as a unicorn when it’s really just a horse. from @jaybaer

Tuesday March 16th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@ChristyTtweets RT @samsf2la: RT @JYelton: RT @aaronmoller: Social Media is like Hamburger Helper" http://lunch.com/t/10pn #scansxsw
@dastwatter Social media is like a popular girl that advertising is always trying to get with, but can't figure out how.
@pashamalla Asking who owns social media is like asking who owns email. Everyone is using it. Set guidelines. (via B. Solis) #engage #sxsw
@dickbartholet @unrbiz Social media is like a journey through a jungle; lots of interesting things to see, but hard to get my bearings early in the journey
@tedore @unrbiz social media is like a warm spring wind blowing the fog out of your hard to see landscape
@debrademing @unrbiz Social Media is like the excitement and trepidation of going on a first date.
@blueskycomm New survey finds 70 percent of marketers worldwide either use or will use social media in 2010: http://tinyurl.com/yzoylvj
@DigiGadget: Study: Smartphone users more inclined to use devices for social media: The study found that while 22.5 percent of ... http://bit.ly/cRWV7r
@thedoggiedaily: With social media--nobody keeps anything to themselves anymore.If it's on the tip of your tongue,it soon becomes everyone's business.hmmm...
@KMackenzieG: Marketing Tip: W/social media detailed, meaningful content sent on a regular basis often beats out mass broadcasts sent out occasionally.

Monday March 15th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@ackiemacinsf RT @maccabeepr: Percentage of U.S. marketing budgets projected to be dedicated to social media in next 5 years, acc to AMA - 20 percent. Wowza.
@Stefany_Singh RT @greenbeltca: More from @unmarketing women are the backbone of social media. 84 percent of social media sites are used more by women than men. #acuitysm
@sallyfalkow Social media users influenced by & prefer to give advice face-to-face (71 percent of the time) after an online search.http://bit.ly/c7Jy2I
@NoviMediji RT @BloggingBistro: Social Media Tip of the Day #72 – A typical blogger spends at least 1 hour daily posting new blog.. http://bit.ly/bTgT8C
@mikedmerrill RT @elysa: best way to engage: be helpful; #1 rule for social media - be helpful & generous #blogmoney
@johnmsanchez "The number one rule to social media is NOT transparency but being helpful. Transparency is just the qualifier" - @sanderssays #blogmoney
@creativedivot Social media is a channel, not a strategy. Still need creative ways to promote. "the media is the message" - every rule has an exception.
@genm2 RT @aimclear: Rule #1 Don't Expect Social Media to Always Be a DIrect Response Vehicle, HubSpot http://bit.ly/bHvTUk
@LeeJCarey Building automated social media is like creating artificial relationships, do you really want the results?
@tinawebanalyst RT @Admore: Defining Social Media is like describing the weather: It's different for each person and changes all the time (via @Paisano)

Thursda March 11th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@SuperMNet: #SMbusiness social_smallbiz: #tip Being 'authentic' is the best way to get more business through social media http://s-a.cc/RSu35 #Busi
@Charlie_O: @modernmami LOL. Social Media is like driving, it's a skill. And tho lots of people are bad at it, they do it every day anyway.
CandiceSeiger: "Social media is like nuclear energy" #scip2010
@racepointgroup: #smroi. Dave of forrester says social media is like the phone. Full of conversation but we can't measure.-jl
@alunjohn: Loved this social media quote from @shivsingh - "the purpose of a business is to create a customer who creates customers" (via P Drucker!)
@mgilvey: @designunleashed Interesting quote from Hubspot "Companies should embrace social media or risk going out of business" If I got that correct.
@SandraTweet: RT @danigranatta: monster quote! RT @EdgarMontano: "Social media gurus: We all know one. If you';re lucky, you know ONLY one" <- jajaja!, buenísimo!
@leprecoceferoce: Do you agree? Does the rule change if you work in social media? MediaPost: Simple Rule: Don't Friend Bosses http://bit.ly/9BVBDV
@ttronslien: RT @Nev_Dragi: Number one rule of social media across all platforms: BE HUMAN #acuitysm
@Shortlisted: "Social media is not just another tactic to be tacked onto the proverbial backside of a corporate identity system." http://bit.ly/bPLop3

Wednesday March 10th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@ServiceSphere: Social-lite tip: you don't need groups to understand social media. You need each other.
@Balyana: e-marketing Marketers Spending 20 Percent of Budgets on Social Media: Chief marketing officers plan to increase t... http://if10.net/01c
@ExperianMkt: Social media grows up w/people 55 & older accounting for 12 percent of visits to social-networking sites. @AdweekDotCom http://bit.ly/ceNGxI
@birthnetfl: @birthgoddess #1 rule of social media= don't take it personally! (I promise :)
@LizOpacity: 1st rule of social media: transparency - information wants to be free #bmanj
@NicoleJordan: OK. I'm game @TheMan @CathyBrooks @serena @acoolong social media rule #3: just having a "high" twitter count doesn't make u "influential."
@pjperez: @andyy my rule to anything social media: if you don't have a last name or photo, you're A BOT
@mklinkhammer: Brett Cohen, Quirk Books, "Social media is like enticing users into your tradeshow booth, use all available assets to drive & engage" #pbc10
@nikroope: Social media is like all the stuff you shout at the TV but where everyone else watching can hear. I don't believe that BTW, just soundbiting
@beingsocialnow: Social Media Niches = Riches By Julie Keyser-squires - Hospitality Net http://bit.ly/c5QqVY

Tuesday March 9th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@dacort: Twitter is the tip of the social media iceberg #140tc
@earnsocialmktg Social Media Tip of the Day: If you have a business that has vehicles with advertisements on them, than you need to consider social media.
@TalkingShoe 2-minute rule @deirdrewalsh @CEB_MLC If a customer can be helped in 2 mins, then support via social media, else transfer to customer support
@gudrup Golden Rule for Social Media Success: 1. Helping 2. Asking - http://ow.ly/1eLZk
@SpeakSay Why is social media of interest to businesses right now? The answer is simple: it’s what the people are doing: http://bit.ly/cA2TYW
@MeredithMBell RT @mikemyatt: Social Media shouldn't be used to replace face-to-face interactions, but rather to accelerate & enhance them. #quote
@itsyoursole Good quote "Social Media is a commitment not a campaign"
@LevyMcCallum RT @ABCadvertising: Social media marketing will grow at an annual rate of 34 percent, reaching $3.1 billion by 2014. (Forrester)
@tomewing For most social media stuff I'd say consistency of identity is more important than transparency (prompted by http://bit.ly/blrX93 )
@dianasoloman Thx to Shane Gibson for this: great tip: Social media is 90% contribution and connection 10% marketing and sales. http://www.myvadiana.com/

Monday March 8th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@Windward: RT @Rieva: RT @smallbizInSite: RT @social_smallbiz #tip Keep social media content clear and focused http://ow.ly/1cZoj
@TwentyFeet: Social Media Tip: Stop talking about yourself; http://bit.ly/dCzsmi (@chrisbrogan)
@ReidTFSM: Social Media Tip (of) The Day: After being online all day....go outside. Its a beautiful world...make sure you enjoy it for all it's worth.
@dhanishth: RT @brettking: Great quote - "Our head of Social Media is the customer." -- McDonald's
@blatantlybianca: "A Fool With A Tool, Is Still A Fool", great quote! Good insights for newbies on social media best practices: http://cot.ag/dwzP2j
@daniellekobrien: Sanders says: Social Media Success Rule: Be Generous http://bit.ly/aviMEB
@TheSocialDen: Social media is like chicken noodle soup, the best kind is made with care and preparation.
@dotjenna: Social media is like having a conversation with the whole world. ~ dotJenna
@PragueFacebook: 79 percent of the largest 100 companies in the Fortune Global 500 index are using social media platforms http://bit.ly/b0zku8
@pvesey 58 percent of these small business owners felt social media was living up to their expectations, http://ow.ly/1fo7M

Friday March 5th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@lsdigitalmedia: 37 percent of internet users have contributed to the creation of news, commented about it on social media sites like Facebook or Twitter.
@SkylarEntertain: Facebook? 206.9 million unique visits in December—a whopping 67-percent share of all social-media users in those countries.
@socialmedia217: Who Uses Social Media More, Men or Women? - Gigaom.com: Men (57 percent) are more likely than women (50 percent) t... http://bit.ly/aDLuX7
@SmallBizLoans: Small Business Tip : Never restrict any of your Social Media Profiles, everyone should have access to your profile info at all times.
@hessiej: RT @eMarketer: Case you missed this stat: US social media users are 7.7% more likely than average adults to watch video/TV online. (Via RAMA)
@Weal_Media: Social Media targets customer relations to improve consumer satisfaction, build trust / encourage loyalty: http://bit.ly/define-social-goals
@loyan: @candiceruud Social media is rooted in transparency & sharing. Its a great source for media. Ethically, would Kendra have liked your story?
@ejbatey: RT @peasrecruitment: quote from NMA article - "advertising on twitter will feel like your social media strategy has failed"
@VegasEvent_MKTG: RT @redinthecity: Love this quote: "The only way to stay ahead in social media is to build the plane while you're flying it."- Jason Weaver
@FrostinaDC: @lovisatalk Yes! My fav quote was “Integration of traditional media w/ social media”~ You [paraphrase] / Doesn't have 2 be 2 distinct worlds

Thursday March 4th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@Anthony_T_Bos: RT @Jason_J_Davis: RT @stelzner: Social media etiquette tip #487: Stealing content = public flogging in the virtual town square. #NotCool
@MOSTraining: Social Media Tip: what you say is still floating in cyber space and may land in a place you least want - a potential job recuriter. #YPT
@raelinn_wine: RT @KathleenRake RT @shanegibson Social Media Tip: Social media tools are mostly free-time isn't. Allocate necessary time to make tools work
@tommytrc: RT @drcmblake: Social media Success Rule : Be Generous - http://bit.ly/aiGy46 @tweetclean = generous to the max!
@paulwallbank: basic rule for social media should be: monitor, listen and engage #Media140 http://bit.ly/98nPrM
@neelyolson: RT @NW_Mktg_Guy: Asking who in an organization owns social media is like asking who owns the phones (or mail) - @seanodmvp #PRMKTGCamp
@olivcim: RT @GaryBaney: being a power user of social media is like being a carpenter and having a new power tools show up in the toolbox every morning! Yes!!
@Kalvinchong: Social media is like having a baby. Everyone will tweet advice & their opinion but in the end you have to remember what works for you. :)
@cmclaren1: RT @augieray: 25 percent of all US-based page views occurred on a social media site in 1/10, from ComScore via #omtrsummit.
@shaeclaypool: REPORT: 1/5 of marketing budgets go to social media in the next 5 years http://short.to/19a3i / via @DanSchawbel

Wednesday March 3rd

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@wardvanos: RT @ndecrock: Social media marketing is like the trivia quiz Jeopardy. You have all the answers, but you forget to ask the right questions.
@BizPals: Looks like Social media is catching on with businesses http://bit.ly/b5unx7 12% adoption rate last yr to 24% this year! #smallbiz
@FvrythingPR: . @tiglu In 223 pages, the book packs a lot of info and practical advice. One I like: Social media is a mindset, not a toolset.
@2RhettMcNulty: RT @o0KitKat0o: @TWiegert puts it best: "Social media is like having a conversation. You can only control 50 percent." Too much control defeats purpose.
@steffanantonas: Like this by @cspenn: "what powers social media is...being skilled at communicating something fundamentally human" http://bit.ly/99H4Dv
@tomcunniff: @lbbinc Yep, me too. IMHO a problem with "social media" is that it's so poorly defined, it can mean anything. It's like saying "digital"
@TwitSnaps: The best measure of success in social media is how many relationships you have and how strong your relationships are. #socialmedia tip
@lvanquaethem: PR tip: Leave a good online foot print! Take advantage of social media tools such as: blogging, tweeting and LinkedIn.
@antoniotrejo: Social media ROE tip #4: acknowledge that conversion may take a while to see. your opportunity to connect is priceless (well, sort of).
@einspruch: "Social media is not dead. It is the new ubiquity." A quote from @twendywendy

Tuesday March 2nd
Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@Maria_Sheila: RT @nielvanmeeuwen: Social media budget allocation will be 20 percent in five years http://bit.ly/c3ekQW
@EZ_moneymaker: New Research: SMB E-mailers Using More Social Media & Video: Ninety percent plan to integrate Facebook and Twitter... http://bit.ly/9cyu8r
internetnooz: Social Media: 61 percent say they get news online (source: Topix.net) http://bit.ly/aV09MW
@erichwilliams: 29 percent of American companies have developed formal social media policies for their employees. Six examples. http://is.gd/9t9Du #in
@stepaheadinc: Social media use jumped 82 percent from December 2008 to December 2009. We knew it was growing, but wow! http://short.to/18f4d
@ethanwhitehill: Social shopping: 56 percent of e-retail shoppers who engage with social media "friend" or "follow" fave retailers http://bit.ly/cdac1V
@molovargas: RT @social_smallbiz: #tip Continuously monitor mentions of your brand on social media http://bit.ly/92uST1
@JonFoxPhoto: Social media tip: Don't go after people; let them come to you.
@TwitSnaps: Social Media Gives You Unprecedented Ability to Listen to Your Customers which help the company to focus on their goal #socialmedia Tip
@HectorGDiaz: RT @shanegibson: Social Media Tip: Consistency is a key factor in building your brand, stay present, stay on message, keep listening.

Monday March 1st

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@iimaonline: RT @shanegibson: Social Media Tip: Contrast keeps people interested. With your blog and twitter content vary tempo, topic and format.
@AnneSweeneyPR: TODAY'S SOCIAL MEDIA TIP. Use a Profile Picture. Those creepy silhouettes send a negative message - you can't be... http://bit.ly/95skrH
@knockbuckle: LinkedIn / other Social Media tip - remember your photo is often your 1st impression - take time to choose a goodie!
@how2beobnoxious: RT @andreastenberg: RT @LiveYourBrand: Social Media Tip: Did you know Social Networking is now the #1 online activity? It has replaced both porn and email.
@social_smallbiz: #tip Use social media to keep your best and most loyal customers updated with company developments http://bit.ly/5lKPWF
@RedRoverSentMe: Social Media Tip # 6 . Build Quality Relationships- People are more willing to help those who they really know.... http://bit.ly/aRLOZi
MK_reader: Social Media Success Rule: Be Generous http://j.mp/cUSztd
@GladysWalkert: Rule of Social Media marketing is 95/5. 95% relationship building, 5% trying to sell them something. Know them before you try to sell them
@maymaym: My own social media tip: ALWAYS include call to action, implicit or not, when on promotion campaign. AWALYS. SA: http://ur1.ca/nscw
@shanegibson: Social Media Tip: If you're going to be disruptive aggressive and edgy you also have to be able to take what you dish-out; with a smile!

Thursday February 11th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@cdeniaud [TIP OF THE DAY] Social Media goes global but you should act local
@CRConsulting Social media has always been with us. Who hasn't recommended a product to a neighbor, received a tip from a... http://bit.ly/d2sd2y
@salesacademy Social Media Tip: Get good at offline rapport building. When you meet ur Twitter friends in person it will cement the relationship.
@JonFoxPhoto RT @shanegibson: Social Media Tip: Don't build castles online. Connect with other leaders and build roadways.
@BostonRS RT @WileyBiz: RT @suzemuse Best social media tip: It's not about the tools. It's about the conversation. #sm101
@WileyBiz RT @HSchiefelbein: Social Media Tip (via @wileybiz ) -- Focus on the SOCIAL more than the media to build relationships #sm101
@anderyoung @chrisbrogan social media tip: “In the beginner’s mind, there are many possibilities; in the expert’s, there are few.” – Suzuki Roshi #sm101
@decker_chris Best social media tip? Be authentic! People can recognize when you are faking it, even in a tweet! #sm101
@OnlineFantastic Create a private #Twitter List of all ur competitors, so that U can monitor all of their tweets in 1 location! #sm101 via @TravelingDad
@hopejulieanne11 I like that. / RT @urichmond: 3 R's of social media engagement - be real, be refreshing, build relationships. #sm101

Wednesday February 10th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@omwhitby There are few rules in Social Media. The guiding rule should be RESPECT for others and other ideas.
@JessicaLevin RT @Jeffhurt: Rule #2 of Social Media [& Travel] : Be a pilgrim, not a tourist says @dberkowitz [Plan to settle, earn respect] #ec10
JessicaLevin RT @psalinger: Rule # 1 of social media - when going someplace new - learn the language @dberkowitz #ec10
@joeduck Blogging down, Social Media up. No surprise there as we are designed to have short attention spans. Twitter... shall rule.
@gahlord .@rnadworny Hey the oldest rule of social media, man: Don't feed the trolls. ;)
@andmiriam Don't just approach social media from one stream - take it from all sides. post pictures. tweet links. quote people. include video. #sm101
@Confucius_life RT @RichardSPearson: The journey is the reward. Chinese proverb #quote #media #social
@scullyp Radio5 reporter is seeing if he can get all of his news from social media. Great quote "If the news is that important, it'll find me."
@chrisgruggen RT @MyVintageSecret: Good quote. Social media is not an add-on its an evolution of your marketing strategy. - susan langdon fr TFI via Cheryl Heyl #smwTO
@lorriberri Favorite quote @ #iconf2010 - Richard Urban @musebrarian we are becoming "men & women of Twitters instead of letters" (Social Media session)
@shannonkharvey Best quote from SMG RFP session so far - "if a product sucks, the best social media strategy in the world will only make it worse"

Tuesday February 9th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@weRwatching2010: Social Media tip #68: don't tweet on 2 hours sleep :-)
@LauraleeBorrero: RT @prodigaljohn: Social Media Tip: Your very 1st interaction with someone shouldn't be you asking for a favor
@ShannonPalmer: TIP: Empower your employees by training the company staff on social media/marketing. Also ensures consistency in message #sofresh
@BLASTmediaPR: Social media tip of the day! Wish more people used DMs for the right reasons... RT @LScribner: Constant salesy DMs will get you an unfollow.
@PeteSalsich: YES. RT @SCartierLiebel: No Social Media Without Strategy http://bit.ly/dCUQfZ Excellent vid by john Jantsch. First tip: Start by Listening!
@pvesey “Nothing happens until someone tweets something.” http://ow.ly/15nMX
@SeattleWineGal: Social Media Tweet Tip: Be Yourself! People want to follow humans, not faceless businesses. Be fun and keep it real! #Seattle
@NYBD: @willDavidian social media tip: abusing social media is probably not the best way to win friends and influence people
@CateTV: RT @_KimRandall Social Media Tip #20 - Stop Counting! http://bit.ly/9iRUga
@richandcom: Marketing is like tracking. Selling is like hunting. Social media is like farming, so enjoy the daily chores. Farming yields more.
@jesse1124: Overcoming Social Media Anxiety: For retailers, social media is like eavesdropping on what people are saying about... http://bit.ly/bnbwtL

Thursday February 4th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@mycrowdca: RT @nada_arnot - you increase your odds at social media success by working with people who know the space. #smwgotham
@TommyGuns: I have a client that has had a 100% boost to her revenue because of social media, and it was the cheapest form of advertising she purchased
@jbsilva: RT @augieray: 50 percent of mobile page views are to Social Media sites. From @Webtrends #engage (via @GMRMarketing)
@spooney35: RT @RACHELinCINCY: Not to be rude, but... ***Social Media Tip: Auto direct messaging on Twitter is SO ANNOYING.***I AGREE**
@social_smallbiz: #tip Use social media to keep your best and most loyal customers updated with company developments http://bit.ly/5lKPWF
@marynwilliams: @skydiver rule 3 and 4 be brief - learn to write. 2.7 sec attn span 140 characters. Finally, Social Media is customer Service.
@schmittyapolis: RT @desaraev: He just said my favorite quote (I've used it before). In social media if I go to shake your hand, don't stick your tongue down my throught.
@plugmediagroup: Best recent quote on social media: "Social media is becoming the operating system of a business," -- Don Tapscott, of nGenera Insight. #sm
@coachkiki: RT @danamlewis: Quote of the day (from @mackcollier) "being a social media rockstar is about as significant as being the 3rd best hockey player in Ecuador."
@ecentre: Social Media is a mind game, you need to know who you are (quote: from social media altitude workshop). #socialmedia

Wednesday February 3rd

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@BloggingBistro: Social Media Tip of the Day #33 – Build your customer base by giving away something of value: sample products,... http://bit.ly/bN7ebL
@hsoursou: More than 60 percent of mobile web pageviews are to social media sites http://ow.ly/139Up
@NAIT_EIM: Fifty-seven percent of U.S. workers use social media for business purposes at least once per week (Valerie Valentine) http://twurl.nl/kab18k
@Ideasshop: RT @CapitalCougar: @vaughndavis Re using social media / email; a good rule is not to write anything you wouldn't mind seeing on the front page of a newspaper.
@boldcopy: RT @salessherpas: Golden Rule of Social Media...Give First
@bodyspacesoc: "In social media, trust doesn't come from authority but from intimacy" http://blog.vark.com/ [via @eliseparadis]
@eduMarketer: Buzz Marketing News: Social Media is not a campaign it’s a commitment! http://ow.ly/16u3MH
@unknown8bit: "social media is like reality tv shows for people with monitors instead of tvs..." http://tumblr.com/xlp62s0dp
@editorcamille: Social media is like religion—ardently followed by some, half-heartedly acknowledged on occasion or dismissed as foolish nonsense by others.
@agebergX: Think about this; Social media is like being a customer service assistant online instead of in a store! Same principals apply

Tuesday February 2nd

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@ebayStoreNow1: Survey: How Travelers Use Social Media: ... (59 percent) active travelers have visited a social networking site su... http://bit.ly/c7ADp9
@Mobloggy: RT @NetWeave: Asking for stats on effectiveness of social media is like asking for stats on effectiveness of telephones. It's a medium!
@KellyVandever: RT @WendyKinney: #socon Social Media is like a puppy. Cute. Grows up to be a dog, needs constant care and feeding.
@iTbay: @noic_innovate ~ social media is like the industrial revolution. Social media is in it's infancy!
@etomyam: RT @Gregg_Cleland: http://bit.ly/5AbCN Social media marketing can put the trust back into business ... http://bit.ly/bNkHmC
@JohnAntonios: how many times have you been asked to trust someone? in social media, trust is earned. http://ow.ly/12n2w
@ripple1967: RT @zagrrl: RT @ginidietrich: Fifty percent of marketers say they're shifting dollars in2 social media this year http://bit.ly/biXf8v (via @Larry_Spada)
@TwittGoddess: RT @60SecondTweets: Today's :60 Tip: Use social media like a telephone, not a megaphone. A megaphone is a monologue. A telephone is a dialog
@social_smallbiz: #tip Create evangelists for your company and empower them to use social media to spread the word http://bit.ly/5lKPWF
@ericvineyard: RT @jengaby: Quote from class: saying you're a social media expert is like saying you're an expert at faxing

Monday February 1st

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@alexander_allen: RT @Lissansky RT @julito77 Social Media Tip 3: Thanking Followers on Twitter http://post.ly/JB72
@BloggingBistro: Social Media Tip of the Day #31 – Readers’ eyes are drawn to images (images also significantly increase memory... http://bit.ly/afL2Gh
@Leader4hire: I remember when the web was won by geeks & designers years ago. Amazing to see who is winning with social media (tip: passionate talkers)
@Sociablebook: Social Media Tip: How do you keep momentum going? Keep doing the basics, the things that got you here. http://bit.ly/bKruf9
@saurabha87: RT @kensapp: Internet Marketing Tip: When using Social Media, the real product you are selling is yourself! Relationships first, business second.
@TheEliteNinjas: RT @shanegibson: Social Media Tip: social media is bi-directional and conversational which requires listening and empathy as skills.
@shanegibson: Social Media Tip: Say thank-you... a lot. Recognize those that support your goals in your network
@Bluegrassgroup: TIP: Respect the Community- This might be the most important rule of social media etiquette.
@robhahn: @startabuzz @PhxREguy praise in public, criticize in private is an AWFUL rule to impose on social media, if you think about it...
@faragodg: Social media follows the Golden Rule: first you must contribute to benefit later. The benefit depends on the intensity of your contribution.

Friday January 29th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@pvesey Fifty-seven percent of U.S. workers use social media for business purposes at least once per week
@nicayeung: RT @shanegibson: Social media tip: stay curious and you will stay current.
@avidsten: Social Media is like a big pub. If you follow the wrong people you will end up with a headache.
@81megs: Swearing in social media is like disrespecting your grandma. Just don't do it.
@signchik: Social media is like a cocktail party. There is a time and a place to talk business. And a time and a place to be social. David S. Garland
@Srimati: RT @dotjenna: Social media is like a glass window into your character; if you're greedy, seedy or needy, we'll all know it. ~ dotJenna
@crossga: social media is like dating- if you follow someone, never engage in conversation, then you are just a creepy stalker. socialize.
@JDeragon: Social media is like a vacuum sucking us all into “content containers” all disconnected and fragmented, not very social http://is.gd/6NtIF
@editormatt: Sree Sreenivasan: Social media is like radio in 1912, like TV in 1950.
@STLwebmarketing: speaker @ #stlsmc: social media is like a ball of yarn. you start pulling and the next thing you know its 4pm

Thursday January 28th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@Autorphan: RT @ankec: Social Media Tip: #bdwcu Give your customers something to talk about and they will
@freshlime: Companies have to let go of control to succeed in social media and trust and empower employees. #mhsmc
@TzionE: @mominisrael To quote @Sarke, social media is decidedly anti-social - there are way more watchers than players out here
@kjlange: RT @shanegibson: Social Media Tip: Momentum is hard to build and easy to lose. When things start to rock... ride the wave and keep pushing.
@PaulHeck: Trust agents makes social media work not rules
@jayneowen: RT @4_Walls: #4wallmtg @nicktadd social media is like word of mouth on steriods and opens up customer to customer communication
@convonix: RT @Sanzaburo Social Media is like training in the gym-consistent,precise and purposeful always brings good results
@karnamadakala: single point of contact, even in social media is very important. People like to know the name and face of the person http://bwbx.io/Q9iP
@russ_dean: Social media is like working out:Many different ways 2 do it, you can pay someone 2 help you do it,& in the end you get out what you put in.
@brianna_h: RT @PureBrandComm: "Social Media is like corporate reputation insurance." Intangible benefits of social media should not be overlooked . http://bit.ly/dgKoT7
@ElizabethBraid: "Ignoring Social Media is like Putting Your Business Phone in a closet & not answering it!" - Thanks Jon Miller

Wednesday January 27th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@Forsund: RT @MarkRaganCEO: 73 percent of chief marketing officers in the US oversee PR. And they are obsessed with Social Media: http://bit.ly/7fwntw
@HarryJGold: Sixty-one percent of social media users w/ 500+ friends follow a brand to learn about new products/features/services. http://bit.ly/4AXskB
@pvesey The average person spent five and a half hours on social media sites in December 2009, up 82 percent from December 2008 http://ow.ly/10THA
@social_smallbiz: #tip Don’t outsource your social media interactions http://bit.ly/5lKPWF
@pvesey Encourage your customers to contribute by uploading reviews or videos of them using your products or services http://ow.ly/10TJ7
@fullsteam: RT @bmccall17: One simple tip for Using Social Media: USE IT!!! - Ultimately, it is in using the medium that we define it.
@buckeyeva: Social Media Marketing Tip: Create 1 Squidoo Lens a week by re-purposing your blog posts or past articles!... http://bit.ly/dt5ToF
@LaTeaseRikard: Social Media Tip: Be generous when you tweet. #socialmedia
@ron_cote: RT @sanderssays: Want a breakout strategy for leadership, social media and life? Read my latest: Rule #2, Be Helpful - http://bit.ly/8sVQhu
@AskOzzie: Rule of Social Media marketing is 95/5. 95% relationship building, 5% trying to sell them something. Know them before you try to sell them.

Tuesday January 26th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@shanegibson: Social Media Tip: Crowdsourcing still requires leadership to take ideas and turn them into action. Don't just create fans, equip leaders.
@businessbragger: Social Media Tip of the day: Key words play a vital role in the success of how people find you. http://ow.ly/ZZgY
@BloggingBistro: Social Media Tip of the Day #24 - Treat your blog, Twitter, and Facebook updates as a business: Make sure every... http://bit.ly/4LmQn4
@StevenAitchison: Social Media Tip - Own your name on every social media site before everyone realises how important social media is
@leadoptimize: RT @social_smallbiz: #tip Keeping an eye on any mentions of your brand on the web is vital to social media marketing http://bit.ly/8gORmb
@GrantGannon: Pro tip for corporate social media folks, be careful not to call your followers twerps with a typo when meaning to call them tweeps :)
@erinannie: Is this a joke?? A social media marketing job for a paper company??
@mhaworth: Social media is a means to an end - not the end itself. It is a new way of engaging in traditional marketing - a way of getting noticed
@RobRueLRFH: RT @juliealbaugh: Social Media is all about trust. If people do not trust you they will not do business with you. (via @LeesChicken)
@Digrafika: New study found 66 percent of respondents will be investing in social media marketing in 2010 - will you? http://tinyurl.com/yghcmag

Monday January 25th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@fredshadian: RT @shanegibson Social Media Tip: "There is no failure only feedback"
@jbmavrich: @rbohlender too true. the Golden Rule of social media: tweet unto others as you would have others tweet unto you, or you'll get unfollowed.
@rowenab: Was just given this for corp using social media: 80/20 rule – 80% of tweets about others (sources, articles, links) and other 20% about you.
@kristinhersant: Rule #10: The real role of social media is retention. People want to talk to people - not a shoe. #sherpaemail
@ExperienceComm: RT @cowanpkc: To quote @stevemiller " My social media work is seriously hampering my social media participation.". Brilliant. Indeed
@lolaaudu: #MAR social media creates the relationships which generate business. It's all about them! #quote Terry Murphy
@mdyoder: RT: @namtrok "The world is still bigger than social media" - Quote from @pkuras at #smart bfast
@paularheaCISSP: #Quote: "Remember, it's not about selling, but helping people buy," Social Media & Mobile devices help connect prospects w/ information
@wayne_37: Global social media usage jumped 82 percent over the year, says Nielsen study...http://p.gs/t032s
@JamieMarsland: Social media stats: 84% – Percent of social network sites with more women than men.

Friday January 22nd

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@KevinSparenberg: RT @MikeHowie: 70 percent of those who are online participate in social media in some form; farmers need 2 b there 2 http://bit.ly/54GtEj
@GetPaidToday: Market Intelligence: Social media use and what we want to buy: 93 percent of social network users are under 55 yea... http://bit.ly/7o6umP
@pvesey 62 percent of social network users have household incomes of $40,000 or more, http://ow.ly/Zi0O
@rcaroman: report: (36 percent) of respondents investing in social media monitoring and analysis tools http://bit.ly/6pHmhl
@THONGPISUT: 66 percent of 1068 marketing professionals worldwide will be investing in social media marketing (SMM) in 2010.
@social_smallbiz: #tip Keep an eye on what your competition is doing with social media. Is there anything you can replicate? http://bit.ly/8gORmb
@smallbusiness20: RT @social_smallbiz: #tip Content is king - the key to social media success is creating great content your audience want to read & share ...
@Searchmar: Social Media Tip: Tweets are not about links but about followers. On Twitter.com, people "follow" the comments of other Twitter users.
@jacaldwell: RT @rdeutsch: Social #EmailMarketing Tip 8: 72% of CMO’s to hold social media accountable to revenue goals in 2010. looking @ metrics now.
@fredshadian: RT @shanegibson Social Media Tip: "There is no failure only feedback"

Thursday January 21st

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@VinoPigro: Who says that only young people loves social media? Seventy percent are ages 30 or older. http://bit.ly/5y2QNY
@MIrealestate: Congrats @keeleykerrins @cravingspopcorn,Social Media, Sees Growth of 25 Percent http://bit.ly/7CdMur #lovelansing (SM Works)
@KristyLoper: Fact of the Day: Only 17 percent of Internet users don’t participate in any social media.
@steelcitym: RT @social_smallbiz #tip Keeping an eye on any mentions of your brand on the web is vital to social media marketing http://bit.ly/8gORmb
@kimnishida: RT @HowToUseSN social media tip #4: evaluate your social media results on a regular basis, http://short.to/13p2e
@SMAltitude: #1 Social Media Marketing Tip - "Put other peoples interests, Above your Own" - John Razmus (from his latest Video) http://bit.ly/8oQXpM
@khuda1: RT @PaulHemingway TV may still rule #Olympics marketing, but sponsors using social media 2 build buzz/get fans involved http://bit.ly/5K0alp
@BrentLeary: GREAT quote from @comcastcares: "My career will be guided by Customer Service over social media." full post - http://bit.ly/4MTePi . #scrm
@bestrong: "Social media is just a collection of tools. It's up to us, the people, to make the real impact on our world." -Ben Parr mashable.com #quote
@sharlyn_lauby: Excellent quote! RT @SBoSM: "Digital media buys online coverage. Social media earns it." #sm4gov

Wednesday January 20th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@gacconsultants: Social Media Tip 3: Thanking Followers on Twitter http://bit.ly/56a6Ks via @julito77
@SalesDuJour: Social media is a partnership. The vendor provides the medium, it’s up to you to be socially effective. Sales Marketing Tip
@omconnect: #socialmedia tip: Social media lead generation is about content. Use different media for content & see which types your target market prefer
@justinflitter: Less Formality, More Personality #CustomerService #tip Social Media for Business #socialmedia
@PhillipPhakade: RT @russiandiva: Tip: Failing to communicate and participate in social media stops your advancement of trust of your audience
@MelCarlton: The Golden Rule applies to Social Media too: RT @tweetmeme The “Do Unto Others” Principle of Social Media http://tinyurl.com/ybyaz8t
@justinflitter: RT @clairecelsi: @MichaelLibbie Rule #1 of social media: Be there because your customers expect you to be there.
@MarkVogler: Rick says The only way Social Media won't work is to shut down the internet. And you can quote me on that.
@InsureVancouver: @TheCoolestCool Social Media is like a reverse Mullet... A Party in the front, Business in the back. My fave soc med quote (via @rickrake)
@CIME4: TIP: Your customers are worldwide, just like the web. Increase your revenue with consumer direct marketing combined with social media.
@anthonycurtis: Local Marketing Tip: How To Reward Your Customers for Local Social Word-of-Mouth Activity http://goo.gl/fb/13KC

Tuesday January 19th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@ordoroteam: RT @EcommerceBoy: The PEC Review: The Social Media Marketing Book: Some 70 percent of shoppers trust consumer opinions posted online... ...
@simMENTORS: Trust is a huge factor in social engagement. Understand that social media marketing is most effective when users in the community know you.
@CalebDonegan: Social media allows businesses to build trust through communication http://bit.ly/5tc9vC (via @VHenderson3)
@abonde: social marketing tip-o-the-day: the big payoff for customer communities isn’t awareness (or service), it’s product ideas + innovation
@dannydevriendt: Social media grows up, cuts its hair, gets a job http://bit.ly/7efFFI (via RT @jodykoehler) #pnid
@bobbiandmike As a society we have become so attached to social media that when we should be enjoying life we're instead telling everyone about it.
@pablokzk: Tip of the Day....Put your family and friends on a separate social network than that of your co-workers.
@cyberdybner: Social media blurs the line between work and private life. Is this just a phase? Will the line be redrawn when social media usage matures?
@stanleytang: Be transparent and authentic - not just social media but in life too
@StuckinThird: RT @vernieman: Today's lesson: Never ever, ever, ever diss the social media crowd. Power to the People! #yorais

Monday January 18th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@kknapp: RT @SBoSM Engagement rule No. 1: Thou shalt make it easy: http://ow.ly/WRbh. Intersting article for Social Media Users.
@my_fun_time: My new quote: Twitter is the tapestry of all of us. It isn't social media, it is social make up.
@IcebergMktg: "SOCIAL MEDIA puts the 'Public' into PR & the 'Market' into Marketing" - Chris Brogan #quote
@BrentNelsen: Quote of the day: "social media isn't about getting the message out, its about getting the message in." Trey Pennington. #sctweets
@divinemisswhite: RT @RazChorev: Quote: "Sit on my Facebook and I'll whack you up the Twitter. " Social media guru http://bit.ly/gcr1y (@dmscott ) Via @Di ...
simongoh: 35.7 percent of companies say Twitter most effective social media tool http://bit.ly/73fUsJ (via @MackCollier)
@joinphp: Are you socialized yet ? we are Socializing Businesses by Humanizing Social Media Strategies.http://www.kloudsocial.com// ,Thanks to trust usa
@The_PG_Project: Leveraging social media to drive positive word of mouth. TIP: Give your customers something to tweet about. New post http://bit.ly/5sjiay
@sharonmostyn: RT @pamcamp: RT @carlrez: Simple statement but very true "The key to social media is being social" - Jeremy Palmer #asw10
@pvesey By 2013, mobile phones will overtake PCs as the most common Web access device worldwide. http://ow.ly/XwWu

Friday January 15th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@simongoh: 35.7 percent of companies say Twitter most effective social media tool http://bit.ly/73fUsJ (via @MackCollier)
@Law_Pundit: RT @Ginaschreck: Social Media tip: Promote OTHER PEOPLE! (period...enough said...really...its not ALWAYS about you!)
@cbreecopy: Tip: Social media strategy is not one-size-fits-all. Assess your needs and use only the media that will benefit you most. #socialmedia
@Ginaschreck: Social Media Tip:SHARE GREAT INFO- dont worry that someone will STEAL your content (they already have it from Google you goof)
@social_smallbiz: #tip Social media is not a quick win You need to put in the effort to build up a lasting presence http://bit.ly/8U2NY6 from @ollieandforbes q
@maltaee: Sales Tip: “Business owners don’t recognize how much of social media is customer service.” ~ @garyvee
@cliqology: Nice quote from @Jezmond: You can buy attention(advertising), beg for attention(PR) bug people's attention (sales) Or earn it (social media)
@shanegibson: Social Media Tip: Leadership is about vision and influence. Those with a vision bigger than themselves will have the most influence.
@shanegibson: Social Media Tip: Build enough trust and no call will ever be a cold call. #branding #relationships #value
@MichaelMahlberg: RT @deadprogram: My rules for social media: find something cool=tweet it, learned something cool=blog it, mastered something cool=present it

Thursday January 14th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@ewebsmart: Tip! Social media is about creativity and personality. Big marketing bucks aren't needed if you can integrate these into your strategy!
@FaberHoods: Nice tip from @ProsperbyDesign Social Media TIP: Power is in your list, your loyalty and your care and feeding of them.
@DianaEnnen: RT @buckeyeva: Social Media Tip: build real relationships AROUND your social media marketing, not in place of it. (You're on a roll!)
@attentio: Rule for social media: You can't manage what you can't measure http://wimbis.com/?15O
@andrewbadera: Rule: if you follow me without starting a convo and your bio says "social media guru" (or expert) I will report you for spam.
@IsraelRF: 5 Social Media Secrets for 2010: 1. Pay Attention to the Metrics 2. Scale Good Habits 3. Have Rules, But Trust People
@spencervt: If you don't trust your agents to be on social media why do you trust them to work for you? #icny
@abelniak: great quote:"Social media never ends,and brands that consider embarking [on this] must be mindful of that commitment." http://bit.ly/7PnWDA
@pvesey If content is king, then conversion is queen @bizzuka
@ollieandforbes: RT @social_smallbiz: #tip Social media is not a quick win You need to put in the effort to build up a lasting presence http://bit.ly/8U2

Wednesday January 13th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@davidreske: RT @Millennium Tip for entrepreneurs - social media a mindset, not a tactic. Read more! http://bit.ly/88lJ1p
@BloggingBistro: Social Media Tip of the Day #12 – Blog categories are a table of contents in which you index topical articles.... http://bit.ly/8XmDye
@HillsofAfrica: RT @ProsperbyDesign Social Media TIP: Keep it consistent and persistent, THIS is the bran in your marketing plan!
@Ncavarra: RT @sbosm Getting your small business started w/ social media - Tip - Everyone @ the company can and should join in! http://bit.ly/8h8unW
@karenjpa: RT @CanDoCanBe: Biz Tip: If u use social media tools like Twitter, stop lurking. Join the conversation. That's when it really starts 2 work.
@steveplunkett: Today's Social Media Tip: if you have to bash people to be heard, then you are constantly heard to be bashing people.
@LinkedInExpert: @CertifiedSM Hi - The Source for the "only 9% of companies are NOT using social media" quote is Brian Solis: http://bit.ly/8SMyMr
@jaybaer: 1. @treypennington Your favorite quote is "You Gotta Be, Before You Do". Seems like there are social media implications there? #twt20
@asociallife: Six words you'll hear a lot in 2010 in relation to social media. Mobile, Location, Transparency, Measurment, ROI and Privacy.
@Discover: 32% small business owners using social media say biggest benefit is “getting new business leads.” http://bit.ly/8uS4bt

Tuesday January 12th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@momtohanna: RT @lynnterry: Social Media Tip for Speakers: Talk slow enough for fast typers to tweet-quote your highlights ;)
carolyn925: By the time books on social media are printed and available, they are already out of date. #tip
@lynnterry: First rule of social media communication: define your audience. Know your target market. #socialfresh @jasonfalls <--Amen
suzboop: Difference btw community and social media: social media is a technology, community is what u do with it.(creating trust) #ocrt #octribe #fb
@KPFierce: rule of thumb for social media: the less you say is more if you dont have a clue of whats going on.
@TweepleBytes If you are listening, you will hear when someone says something that begs your attention via @WebWorkerDaily
@TweepleBytes VALUE is subjective, but once you have listened, you will be able to discern what is valuable to any given conversation
hillorn: Communicating with your customers must be top priority to succed in social media, e.g. from Starbucks via@joinsimon http://bit.ly/4RWk3Y
@LWTweet: if your intent is to sell and sell alone, you will fail at social media @jasonfalls #sofresh You must care! - Laura Hicks
@pvesey Did U Know ->The #2 largest search engine in the world is YouTube

Monday January 11th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

chrisgomedia: The trick with social media marketing? Listen before you speak.
@pvesey Tweeple-Bytes Rule: Nobody cares about your product (except you). People care about themselves
ezcomputerhelp: Social media, mobile devices pack essential wallop: In fact, 34 percent of females reported that using social m(edia) http://bit.ly/6XEomO
@chrisbrowntv: WOW! 99 percent -- expect to maintain or increase social media spending in 2010. http://bit.ly/6Arfhb
@ProsperbyDesign: Social Media TIP: Do you have a compelling message, pain is more engaging than pleasure.
@ProsperbyDesign: Social Media TIP: Be yourself, go big, live large. Look at @garyvee, @marismith @denisewakeman >PurposePassion&Power!
jayincalgary: RT @manishc "Social Media tip: People want to connect with people.Use your own pic on your profile."> yes!!
nickJbarrett: Interesting quote by Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg on privacy " Public is the new 'Social Norm' " facebook www social media
SeeboldMarCom: Transparency in social media is key. Tell your fans/followers what your objective is, why, + how they can help, then let them carry the msg
JCSladcik: Small business social media formula: tweet-blog-call...tweet-blog-email...tweet-meet-retweet...tweet-meet-google...tweet-blog-call...repeat.

Friday January 8th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@raymondpirouz: Social media is about demonstrating one's generosity; fallibility; mediocrity; complexity; emotionality; spirituality -- humanity. Be real.
@jonlan: @JustinLevy: I am more likely to buy from a company that has executives out front on social media. This builds trust. #CES
shanegibson: Social Media Tip: Be the flame not the moth. Zaaappp!!
coachbethb: Ali Brown Tip #1: stick w/freebies info sharing on social media & limit selling directly. People buy fr people they know/like/trust.
@davepeckens: Perfect. Love it! @digitalvision sets the social media rule: Only check-in where you might actually want people to meet you.
@BCuban The rule for Social Media Experts is the same as Navy Seals. If you are one, you would never say you are.
@pvesey Tweeple-Bytes : By 2010 Gen Y will outnumber Baby Boomers and 96% of Gen Y have joined a social network
tomcunniff: RT @FreshPie: 92 percent of 18-34 yr olds have social media profile. #CES
matthewfranks: Social media for business - it’s a matter of leveraging the inherent trust consumers have in each other
pointitcory: @pointit_nick "We learn by doing." Put another way, if you tweet it, they will read. My Social Media Strategy is to be social. Simple.

Thursday January 7th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@pvesy Universal McCann reports that 77% of all active internet users regularly read blogs http://ow.ly/T90y
@optify: Social media marketing: no guarantees! Main challenges: build trust, and scalability. http://bit.ly/5KNs3S
@debbielaskeymba: @theprschool Great branding tip: first rule for avatars and bios is to stay consistent across all social media platforms.
@TonightWeParty: Twitter tip: stop trying to sell me on your social media skills. No one cares.
@pvesey Simplest Social Media Rule is learning (if necessary) how to respect people first-thats it - via http://ow.ly/TgGf
@TishWine: Fortunately, social media is helping sort out the disngenuous from the genuine. SM is going to improve the 2010 winescape greatly.
@DigitalRoyalty: Love the chatter about Vanity Fair article. I agree with many points. Beauty of social media is everyone has a voice.
@bubblybubble: The 3 rules for social media 1.Don't be rude 2. Don't be boring 3. Give to get
ArmanArami: Survey shows an average social media marketing budget increase of 57% in 2010. http://bit.ly/8gp3lG
@georgedearing: "Don’t over-promise things that social media tools can't deliver. You’ll fail & you’ll make the rest of us look bad." http://ff.im/-dUtuR

Wednesday January 6th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@pvesey social media networking is a life skill to learn
Qjfmpresents: "Authenticity" and "trust" are two key ingredients in Social Media. Translation: Keep it real, and don't fake the funk :)
@C3CreateConnect: I totally agree with: "All the brilliant social media marketing in the world won't make up for a second rate product."- Joe Calloway
@cargillcreative: In social media, trust comes to those who earn it by demonstrating honesty and loyalty and living up to their word.
JohnMallen: No 1 Rule from Steve Rubel's rules for social marketing- Listening - makes great sense. Still think prime value in all this is learning.
shanegibson: Social Media Tip: Social media is a bridge not a wall. Use it as a reason to connect in person not to replace in-person contact.
royatkinson: @Deaulivery 40 years ago, social media was the small-town newspaper and the chat over the fence; 10 yrs. ago, a chat room. It will evolve.
@pvesey 64% of marketers are using social media for 5 hours or more each week http://ow.ly/T8Yt
@pvesey if you were paid $1 for every time an article was posted on Wikipedia, you would earn $156.23 per hour http://ow.ly/T8ZT
@pvesey Flickr now hosts more than 3.6 billion user images http://ow.ly/T90y

Tuesday January 5th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@chuck: Marketing tip: social media is word of mouth online
@lolaaudu Social Media is not so much about what you do, but rather about what your customers do to you Hmmm...#vrebc, #quote
@mjayliebs: "To be successful, you need to shift your mindset from social media to social strategy," Mikolaj Jan Piskorski, HBS http://ow.ly/SMGq
@derekbruff: Went to barnes & noble to check out #backchannelbook. Apparently marketing is all abt social media these days.
@desireeadaway: Our greatest sources of happiness come from our social relationships not from our stuff.I include my social media relationships in that list
@askTaylorMedia: Social Media... You Are What You Read http://ow.ly/16gBRw
@heathernasif: RT @SocialMedia411: Social Media is the New Super Bowl - Pepsi Refresh and What It Means to Marketers (Forrester): http://bit.ly/6xzDp4
@FplusP: RT @bigfuel: Studies show women are using social media to drive everything from social exchanges to transactions. http://bit.ly/6Ejg9K
@binterest: RT @LXLEE: Twitter Tip: Engage, engage, engage. That’s the ‘social’ part of social media.
@PaulatCirkle: #quote: "Stop worrying about social media ROI & just do it. What's the ROI of putting your pants on in the morning?" http://bit.ly/4GkywY

Monday January 4th

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

AlistairGraham: Social media sites including Facebook, Twitter influenced 28 percent of U.S. holiday shoppers in gift-buying decisions http://bit.ly/4qcuja
lilymaggi: Social Media Use In Business Up Significantly: Forty-three percent of the 2009 Inc. 500 reported social media http://bit.ly/7NrvFk
johninsf: RT @felicelam: Remember, social media marketing is not supposed to sell, it is supposed to influence. @robertomazzoni
Ian_S_Campbell: 2010 - The Year of Personalization. Trust is key to building relationships in social media. http://bit.ly/89Igx6
facebookista: Social media, at least in part is a trust economy
@pvesey Social media tip: Quit waiting for the water to be perfect before you get in! via @AmberCadabra
@Jameethewriter: When creating your social media campaign, start simple with Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn. Learn them well, then add.
@icantinternet: RT @BradBurton: Key to blogging, social media, business... is be yourself, if people don't like you for being yourself. NEXT.
@waltjurgen: It's becoming increasingly clear, social media is not a passing phase.
@waltjurgen: Resistance & disbelief – these are the real reactions of many companies confronted with the seemingly unstoppable rise of social media.

Thursday December 31st

Social Media Tweeple-Bytes -- Because sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@BobBurg: RT @TheRiseToTheTop: Social Media doesn't fix bad business, it amplifies it. There are no magic bullets in marketing.
@deakaz: Want the secret of "social media" ? ..... Create great, original content and be yourself. Its all about engaging!
@dawntrenee: Social Media Tip: Social Media Marketing is ever changing - you must grow and learn with it.
@ricksammon: Social media takes up a lot of time. Tip: Don't let social media make you anti-social :-) After all: Media is not social, people are! :-)
@lindyasimus: Tip: Make sure our birthdate is NOT on your social media profiles, unless you really want to encouage identity fraud. http://bit.ly/75jPVK
@cousteauj: Social Media Revolution?" People die in revolutions. How about Marketing and Customer Experience Evolution?
@justinrfrench: gr8 quote by @charleneli Mistakes in social media are inevitable, after all, you’re building relationships and what relationship is perfect?
@greg_a_elliott: "I am NOT a Social Media Expert. I am a human being." ~Gregory Alan Elliott #quote #socmed #socialmedia #human #life
@BbeS: Holiday Online Sales Up 5 Percent for 2009 – Social Media Key Factor http://bit.ly/8n66Wr
@pvesey Social media usage on up: 75 percent of Inc. 500 companies consider themselves to be very familiar with social networking http://ow.ly/Rkse

Wednesday December 30th

@dukkytweets: "The goal of social media is to make big companies act like small ones." Great quote from @jaybaer http://bit.ly/82iPQX
@RasoirJ: #quote of day: "There are no #holidays in social #media." RasoirJ
@yougottacall: Loyalty, trust & priorities - http://twitpic.com/mlpvb - the starting point for social media marketing
@kimfox: In 2009, 80 percent of Congress signed up for YT channels. (YouTube) From: Republican Politicians Make A Social Media Push: http://bit.ly/5quZVB
@rogersikes: Social media has a huge 2009 by getting old. 514 percent growth in social networking for ages 55+ http://ow.ly/Qxk6
@gokmenkarasu: Quote of the day: "Social marketing works best when it's earned, not paid for" - @GeoffRamsey
@copywriterinuae: #SocialMedia Tip: Save time. Integrate your social media updates into one app like Ping.fm
@FxNxRl: Social Media marketing tip of the day: don't bulls##t, odds you will be called on it are very high.
@SEOxpert: #social #marketing #Tip - Be fun and be clever in your marketing to a sensitive crowd with a voice.
@SalesDuJour: Social networking is older than technology and will outlive the internet. Be social and network wherever you are. #Sales #Marketing #Tip

Tuesday December 29th

@phelo: There are 15,740 Social Media Experts on Twitter http://buzzer.ucd.ie/?u=2VCbc2
@pvesey Twitter TIP #3. Be Personable, Not Personal http://ow.ly/qYtv Affiliate Network Marketing
@TheCoolestCool: Successful social media marketing is 80% strategy and 20% technology - http://ow.ly/Qr5Z
@twittinvestor: Social media works because of trust - http://ow.ly/QcxA via @PRwise
@dferrari Isn't it funny how social media has come full circle all the way back to Dale Carnegie? #journchat
@maltaee: "Social Media is about conversations, and the best communicators start as the best listeners." ~ @briansolis
sonikmedia: If you want to influence Social Media, you need know what's being said. www.sonikmedia.com
@HenryStradford: Conservation People!!! > RT @ricksammon: Social Media Quote of the Day: The conservation is happening - with our without you.
@allanschoenberg: Q8 remember that social media is not a silver bullet - it needs to tie into your brand/strategy #journchat
@briansolis Money doesn't grow on trees, but it does grow on "tweets" http://bit.ly/6vys3W

Monday December 28th

@BMasterminds: Tip #1 Treat social & business media like you're meeting someone 4 the first time. Don't bombard with info & links how can I be of help?
@siftgroups: 24th tip from our advent calendar,24 tips for a social media Christma's; - Don’t dominate the conversation - http://ow.ly/NjBA
@christianalva: Social media twitter tip: Why are you following me if A - you dont talk to me and/or B - you dont distribute my content. Build relationship!
@truant: Social media is no different, the difference is the man who is using it.
@shanegibson: Social Media Tip: The best medium is the one your customer likes, use multiple media.
@shanegibson: Social Media Tip: There will be platforms you visit and platforms you call home. Make sure you own your home.
@ronendanc: first rule of social media marketing: Ask not what your followers can do for you; ask what you can do for your followers.
@nadav2010: Twitter’s 1,928 Percent Growth and Other Notable Social Media Stats http://bit.ly/6y4ED4
@thenetworkhub: 90 percent of Chinese broadband users use social media, compared to 76 percent in the United States http://ow.ly/Q2Mn
@sleepysteph: strategy first, social media tools later http://tinyurl.com/l8t7rn

Thursday December 24th

@ARDELLd: Social media influenced 28 percent of U.S. holiday shoppers in gift-buying decisions this year http://bit.ly/4mMUP1
@Brandyourself: BY TIP: Social media is a TOOL not a solution. It needs to be used correctly and strategically and its not for everybody
@toekneestuck: Tip of the day for companies: Be a social company, not a social media marketer /@adage
@shanegibson: SM Tip: Many people will quit, shun and criticize social media marketing when they realize it's actually about leadership.
@nancymyrland: & Social Media sells trust! RT @heyclay: We say in my classes that TV sells eyeballs and radio sells ears.
@inpressulum: Social Media: Engagement is a privilege. Trust and loyalty are the rewards. (via @mobilefriend)
@DarthGarry After reading tons of advice on how to rock at social media this year, my strategy is pretty simple: Be myself and have fun.
@ducttape: Social media is not so much a tool as it is a behavior.As such it will permeate the whole of the business-not simply marketing
@kristy: Social media marketing explained in 61 words http://bit.ly/4WCLlw by @dmscott (via @RBeale)
You can buy attention (advertising)
You can beg for attention from the media (PR)You can bug people one at a time to get attention (sales)
Or you can earn attention by creating something interesting and valuable and then publishing it online for free: a YouTube video, a blog, a research report, photos, a Twitter stream, an ebook, a Facebook page.

Wednesday December 23rd

@RSSirteubal: Weber Shandwick Social Impact Survey Finds 88 Percent of Nonprofits Experimenting with Social Media: http://bit.ly/5PKG3P
@next247: YouTube Is the Top Social Media Innovation of the Decade: As the decade draws to a close, there’s at least one .. http://bit.ly/7lwVeI
@stunmedia: In 2009, Netbook Shipments Grew 103%, Revenues Up 72% Year Over Year http://tinyurl.com/yzh7j75 - Social Media Marketing News, Stun Media
@acclamatio: "In an era of social media, the table-stakes of branding are honesty, openness, and transparency.":Death of a Salesman- http://ow.ly/Nlym
@alexdcRx: Over 80M US adults use social media for health-related issues http://bit.ly/4OXshL via @fahlgren
@THEMARK200: Dell Rides Twitter to $6.5 Million in Sales http://bit.ly/5KejvL Your business should be calling Chris Voss for Social Media Campaigns.
@shanegibson: Social Media Tip: If you keep changing your message you will keep starting over. Experimenting with your strategic brand is not good.
@JenofallTrades: Social Media is only as effective as the user. Just like a broom is only as good as the sweeper. Use it wisely.
@SocialNetDaily: Social Media: Simplicity Trumps Most Other Emotions http://ow.ly/OGan
@SocialMediaHut: Social Media Marketing Strategy Simplified: Stop Thinking Blog, Start Thinking Value http://twa.lk/CRzIr
@wordsdonewrite: Ad spending on social networks in the U.S. will increase 7% to $1.3 billion next year. http://tinyurl.com/yc55j3t

Tuesday December 22rd

Tweeple bytes - The First Rule in Social Media Marketing

@jaculynn: The first rule of selling social media: listen http://ow.ly/OrXT
@Airbrush_Makeup: Number 1 rule of Social Media Marketing: Provide Value First, Self Promotion Second.
@PennDragonArt: RT @MileHighFan: Twitter Social Media Rule #1 - "Not everybody is going to like you. Get over it."
@jenn: Jenn's social media rule #1: Do. Learn. Do not pay to learn.

@eMarketer 78% of US marketing managers increased social media budgets June to Aug 2009 via @KingFishMedia @5691gerg
@sheconomy 81% of all marketers indicated that their social media efforts have generated exposure for their businesses.
@MediaPost: analysts predict social media will become a strategic part of marketing efforts next year. http://ow.ly/OnbT
@kaseynicole in the world of social media - one tweet lasts like 2 miliseconds. take a deep breath and just keep on keepin's; on! :)
@Activ8Inc: 84% of marketers integrating social media into their email campagins next year http://ow.ly/OpTw
@danschawbel: REPORT: 66% of CMO's to increase social media budget for 2010! http://tinyurl.com/y8kx6js
@mkokc: Social media phrase of the day: Trust Osmosis
@martinbrossman: Before Marketing their was Social Media: people relating, building trust and asking each others for advice (quote inspired @roblaughter )
@ksablan: Tables turn? In 2010, "Consumers will use Social Media to exert more influence over marketing and business decisions" > http://bit.ly/7PP5OO
@CarlNatale: Branding over breakfast - Social media is one of the greatest tools entrepreneurs have to promote the brand of you.... http://ow.ly/16bT8d

Monday December 21st

@sajja: RT @ARDELLd: Social media influenced 28 percent of U.S. holiday shoppers in gift-buying decisions this year http://bit.ly/4mMUP1
@turnsocial: 91 percent of the Inc. 500 are now using at least one social media tool - http://bit.ly/4t4Lyo (Twitter > Blogs?)
@HypewriterUK: Social Media: Facebook Now Consumes 5 Percent of Our Collective Internet Time: Facebook’s already the Internet’... http://bit.ly/4N24lL
DiscoveryCG: did you know that in 2009, 66 percent of marketers used social media in some form? http://bit.ly/6p8bx7
@ninjadoug: @stevelatham 8 percent of social media users are 65+ (same as teens) #healthcare #marketing #socialmedia
@KloudSocial: While 14% People Trust Ads, 76% of People trust consumer recommendations. Interested in profiting from social media? Tr ...
@melyt: Study from U of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, 43% of the business respondents said social media is "very important" to their marketing strategy
@caroltroy: The impact of social media and bloggers has become incredible. The reach to targeted audiences and influencers sees 40 percent increase.

Twitter Social Media Marketing (Nano-Bytes)

2009-12-21T11:39:00.000-08:00

Tuesday December 22nd
Social Media Nano-Bytes -- Sometimes it takes looking at many tweets collectively in order to get the big picture.

@eMarketer 78% of US marketing managers increased social media budgets June to Aug 2009 via @KingFishMedia @5691gerg
@sheconomy 81% of all marketers indicated that their social media efforts have generated exposure for their businesses.
@MediaPost: analysts predict social media will become a strategic part of marketing efforts next year. http://ow.ly/OnbT
@kaseynicole in the world of social media - one tweet lasts like 2 miliseconds. take a deep breath and just keep on keepin's; on! :)
@Activ8Inc: 84% of marketers integrating social media into their email campagins next year http://ow.ly/OpTw
@danschawbel: REPORT: 66% of CMO's to increase social media budget for 2010! http://tinyurl.com/y8kx6js
@mkokc: Social media phrase of the day: Trust Osmosis
@martinbrossman: Before Marketing their was Social Media: people relating, building trust and asking each others for advice (quote inspired @roblaughter )
@ksablan: Tables turn? In 2010, "Consumers will use Social Media to exert more influence over marketing and business decisions" > http://bit.ly/7PP5OO
@CarlNatale: Branding over breakfast - Social media is one of the greatest tools entrepreneurs have to promote the brand of you.... http://ow.ly/16bT8d

Monday December 21st

@sajja: RT @ARDELLd: Social media influenced 28 percent of U.S. holiday shoppers in gift-buying decisions this year http://bit.ly/4mMUP1
@turnsocial: 91 percent of the Inc. 500 are now using at least one social media tool - http://bit.ly/4t4Lyo (Twitter > Blogs?)
@HypewriterUK: Social Media: Facebook Now Consumes 5 Percent of Our Collective Internet Time: Facebook’s already the Internet’... http://bit.ly/4N24lL
DiscoveryCG: did you know that in 2009, 66 percent of marketers used social media in some form? http://bit.ly/6p8bx7
@ninjadoug: @stevelatham 8 percent of social media users are 65+ (same as teens) #healthcare #marketing #socialmedia
@KloudSocial: While 14% People Trust Ads, 76% of People trust consumer recommendations. Interested in profiting from social media? Tr ...
@melyt: Study from U of Massachusetts, Dartmouth, 43% of the business respondents said social media is "very important" to their marketing strategy
@caroltroy: The impact of social media and bloggers has become incredible. The reach to targeted audiences and influencers sees 40 percent increase.

Recap Week of December 14th, 2009

2009-12-19T10:17:00.000-08:00

Get Your Business on the Social Highway
Engage past, present, and future customers before they walk thru your doors or even arrive in town. Temecula, the town I live in, is a favorite tourist destination for Southern Californians. If your business serves out-of-towners....consider this statement from Julia Rosien who tells us to "Forget pocket guides that aren't so pocket-sized - not to mention out of date." For 2010, expect to see high tech travel guides and info kits that fit in our cell phone, packed with up-to-the minute recommendations.

Have apps, will travel – better! Imagine traveling to a city you've never been before. You want to jump into the local vibe and soak up the flavor. Point your cell phone camera and watch the street before you become layered with information. Hotel and restaurant reviews, directions to tourist attractions, historical information - even the daily special at that cute jewelry store on the corner.

Pulling information from a plethora of social networks, Augmented Reality (AR) pinpoints your location using your phone's internal GPS and matches it up with the compass and viewfinder. What you receive is a clickable roadmap.

Continue the Conversation
Considering limited resources, personnel and budgets... small businesses can still build more cost-effective sales stream by leveraging their on-line conversations with past, present, future customers. Hedi Cohen provides us a fantastically simple checklist that you will find very helpful in starting your social media marketing experience.

Nine questions to ask when developing a Social Media Strategy
1. Does your business tap into people's passions and/or hobbies?
2. Can your business show off its work?
3. Can you give prospects information they find useful?
4. Can you extend your expertise to a broader audience?
5. Does your business provide reasons for people to gather?
6. Can your business disseminate fun or related information via social media?
7. Are there targeted or niche communities where your prospects and customers naturally congregate?
8. Do major blogs cover your business's area of expertise?
9. Does your offering lend itself to creating a small online community and/or bulletin board?
Seven Tips to Extend Social Media Marketing Efforts
1. Listen before you participate
2. Monitor what's being said about your business
3. Integrate social media efforts offline
4. Promote social media efforts online and offline
5. Socialize social media marketing
6. Create a content strategy
7. Make content search-friendly
Measuring Results
1. Revenues
2. Expenses
3. Prospects and customers
4. Feedback

Small Business Mindset and Strategy
"The Business of Being David – How to use social media to make your small business big” by Nick Bowditch will be released in March 2010 but I will tell you the 5 rules of social media marketing now! Listen – Integrate – Engage – Promote - Measure. Here are the first 2 chapters as a preview -- the 5 rules begin on page 5.
What is the one word that can ignite Ur Community?...Passion So you say Ur passionate... then stop talking about your products, features, benefits, cost, bla-bla-bla-bla . Merritt Colaizzi has an article providing 11 lessons on how U can ignite Ur community. Here is my twist on her article:
1. Start a Passion Conversation
Be Bold - Ask your customers what they think
2. Inspirational Leadership
Passion creates Influence (Social Equity)
3. Empower Ur Community with knowledge
Teaching Sells
4. Ur Online Passion will drive Offline conversations
90% of Word of Mouth (WOM) happens offline
5. Pick a cause
Everyone can relate to rallying behind a cause
6. MORE in the article

Oh Yes, Ghost Towns exist online too, so Think 2x Build it 1x
I have made plenty of mistakes, and as a result I am adamant about seeking the expertise, knowledge, mentorship, or coaching necessary to build and maintain a thriving business. Zephrin Lasker has a wonderful article about learning from the successful pioneers of social media. Remember, "These are still early days for social marketing. That said, there are certain best practices through which marketers can avoid building the next generation of ghost towns: "

• Have the right users
Just like you can't make good pizza without good dough, you can't build a good social networking group or site without the right members
• Engage consumers at multiple touchpoints
Communicate with your member base through multiple touchpoints -- even beyond your social networking site or group
• Listen
answer honestly. Building a relationship in the social networking space is not very different from a relationship in the real world. You have to be honest and transparent for the relationship to be meaningful

Don't forget most of our lives R spent offline. I picked this article By Willa Plank because of the quote below. From my experience engaging in online dialog with business owners from my own town (Temecula, CA) creates a stronger sense of camaraderie, and a general understanding of common ground at a real grass root conversational level. Something that does not happen when I just 'pop' into a local establishment and try to pick up the conversation from the 'last time' we talked. This is why Social Media is so powerful...yea!

Here is a great article by Jennifer Laycock who is sharing some common viewpoints of the small business owner..."I'm finding that many of these companies have absolutely no idea WHY they need a social media strategy. They just feel the pressure to get involved and hope something will come from it. What it all boils down to is this: your customers are online and they are using social media to communicate. If you aren't, your business is missing opportunities. No one says you have to master every use of social media all at once, but you're doing yourself (and your bottom line) a disservice if you don't at least give some thought toward creeping into the social media space next year to do a little listening." Here is what Social Media Marketing can do for U and your business---Lots of examples

• Reason #1: Social Media Gives U Unprecedented Ability to Listen to Your Customers
• Reason #2: Social Media Gives U the Chance to Build or Introduce a Brand
• Reason #3: Social Media Gives U a Unique Way to Gather Feedback
• Reason #4: Social Media Gives U the Chance to Demonstrate Personality

Don't forget social media is a tool to strengthen offline relationships. Many small businesses already have personal ties to customers in their communities, and these tools are designed to enhance those relationships, not replace them. For instance, you can use social-media tools such as YouTube to give customers a behind-the-scenes glimpse of your company, or display more of your personality than you can through an ad. "It also allows you to show your culture," Endline says. "They're not just there to [see] a static promotion from you. They want value." And remember, a social network is "really a big room of people," author Schaffer says. Use it to "meet" potential clients or business partners, but make sure you follow up with an in-person meeting or phone conversation.

Do you have a Social Marketing ROAD Map? “Lack of an effective social marketing strategy” is one of the most significant challenges facing marketers. Without a strategy, organizations typically approach social media by putting the cart before the horse – starting a blog, Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter account, or other social platform – rather than first mapping a course to achievable objectives. To guide marketers through overcoming this challenge, we created the Social Marketing ROAD Map, a practical method for mapping an effective social marketing strategy. That's a quote from the 'Marketing Sherpa' executive summary which also graphs the least (email content) to most (blogger relations) effective social marketing tactics.

• Research - Monitor target audience dialogue about brands and competition
• Objectives - Define objectives aligned with target audiences and social metrics
• Actions – creating a social marketing strategy with a definitive plan of action
• Devices – deploying social platforms based on audience, objectives and strategy

Real Time, Social Media and 'U'. A convergence of these 3 is in the forecast and they are headed directly for us...What are U going to do? Here is a great, short article by Mary Ellen Slayter who has an inside view on the topic of Branding.

• Social brands The most successful brands in 2010 are going to be the ones that evolve into social brands. This means that brands that have social voices — real people participating and talking on their behalf to customers in an engaging, conversational manner. The company must be willing to let its employees and its brand advocates become the face of the brand. Consumers demand that, and brands like Best Buy that are evolving into social brands (think Twelp Force) will be the ones that win. Every brand is going to need to become a social brand at some point.
• Real-time brands Companies that become dynamic and responsive in real time to their customers and their needs will be the ones that succeed. This doesn’t just mean real time customer service but real time market research, real time product development, and real time customization and personalization of products and campaigns alike. This also means that the products will need to have a digital pulse in them.
• Identifying, nurturing and managing relationships Customers increasingly are also influencers (expert, positional or referent), and companies will need to know who those people are and how much influence they actually have. A lot more effort is going to go into this. Along those lines, understanding how customers come together as communities and make collective decisions will be important, too.

Trifecta (Social Media - U - the Customer)

2009-11-07T14:15:00.000-08:00

The phrase “social media” is not a gimmick or sales pitch, but a long term commitment to develop a social internet highway. Because small business is more agile and adaptable than big business, it is in the perfect position to go BIG on the social scene. A small business (vs large corporate CEO) owner may provide solutions directly to the customer. Adding social marketing to the mix creates a trifecta for social success that benefits business owners and consumers alike.

Considering that social media marketing serves as a large listening portal, it’s pretty amazing that trusted relationships are being formed within public venues with a truly interactive audience. In a case of the tail wagging the dog, it is becoming apparent that consumers, through their social participation, are pressuring businesses to become more open and forthright. In the near future businesses may very well quantify and list consumer and customer social media content as company assets (or liabilities).

Hollie Shaw’s recent article, Marketing embraces social media sites stands out as a reminder that the days of “push marketing” are coming to an end. Largely due to High Tech High Touch social marketing, we consumers are no longer willing to act as passive sponges in response to the corporate messages spewed out in today’s media. Social media marketing is creating a positive, therapeutic , interactive media that is becoming the norm.

To view more messages about social media philosophy, read the Philosophy section of last week’s recap.

What Are You Selling?

2009-10-06T16:22:00.000-07:00

Your #1 Product is You

I love being affiliated with MLM Direct Sales Companies like Amway. They offer hundreds of consumable products -- but whether or not you realize it, the primary product you are selling is yourself. Before a prospect decides whether to buy your product or join your organization, he decides whether or not he wants to do business with YOU.

The key thing to keep in mind is that YOU are your business, not your MLM. In other words, it isn’t enough for your opportunity to be different… you have to be different. -- Ann Sieg, The Renegade Network Marketer, page 80

You Must Be Visible

I’ve created two diagrams to show the difference between selling yourself first and selling your product or opportunity first.

1. I’m a small business owner, employee, and a distributor for a network marketing company. This first diagram shows my mindset about my business structure before I learned about differentiation and selling myself first.

2. The second diagram shows how I’ve implemented the “You are your business” strategy and have reorganized my businesses – and my life. My personal talents, gifts, interests, experience, and personality are integrated with my business efforts.

If you are a distributor for a network marketing company, that company falls underneath you in this model. The goal, then, is to gather a list of people who have already done business with you before being introduced to your network marketing products or opportunity. Those people have willingly given you their contact information along with permission for you to communicate with them directly (through an opt-in form), and will always be your customers. As Ann Sieg says in The Renegade Network Marketer,

"For network marketers, this also requires a serious shift in thinking where you become the bigger “parent company”… Your opportunity is just one of many services." (page 107)

"The key here, what separates a business owner from a sales rep and what allows yout to have your own customers, is that you have to have something unique to offer people above and beyond your opportunity. The more you yourself bring to the table, the greater your returns are. By taking this approach (one where your MLM is one of multiple products you offer), you are now an equal with your MLM as a business entity." (page 109)

The Renegade Network Marketer

The Renegade Network Marketer is just one of several books Ann Sieg has written. Its 130 pages are packed with insight and wisdom that took Ann Sieg years to acquire. Even experienced business owners will glean morsels from this book, although it is easily understood by beginners.

In chapter 10 of The Renegade Network Marketer Ann Sieg explains how to implement and leverage the information she provides in the first nine chapters. In fact, those who purchase the book (a steal at $67, I might add) also get unlimited access to the Renegade Back End system. The Back End is not a one-size-fits-all system. It's a place to begin customizing your own marketing funnel. It's the next step in taking full ownership of your business.

MLM, Direct Sales, Amway --- Use Your USP

2009-10-06T16:08:00.000-07:00

Your Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
Embracing your personal uniqueness and applying it to your business leads to your unique selling proposition. The most effective way to offer a unique product (not your health, nutrituion and beauty products)is to create it yourself. Information products are a key component of the attraction marketing model, and can be created to fit any product or industry. If you offer a product identical to three million other Amway distributors offer, then you must consider what unique value you can add to the product.

Some ways to differentiate:

■Specialize in a niche
■Put a different spin on your product, approach it from a different angle
■Package it in a different format (i.e. turn an ebook into a series of videos)
■Target a different audience
The bottom line is this: your competitive advantage lies in your differentiation, and the way to stand out from your competition to to sell yourself. People will follow a leader not a business entity.

Watch this video to discover how twelve people using attraction marketing techniques have implemented their unique selling proposition into their business.

Success in Your Business is "U"

2009-10-04T19:52:00.000-07:00

You are unique. In our society uniqueness is often looked down upon. But your uniqueness -- your gifts, talents, skills, interests, experience, and personality -- is what makes you special. Instead of trying to “fit in” and conform to standards imposed on you by someone else, you should embrace your special and unique gifts and talents, and furthermore, use them, not hide them. The use of your unique gifts and talents leads to success. In fact, the more unique you are, the more valuable you become.

Uniqueness, or differentiation, is also one of the keys to business success. Why should people buy your product or service, instead of one offered by someone else? Yes, it’s true that differentiation applies to your product, but it also applies to the person offering the product. For instance, in the retail industry, lots of stores stock identical items. What leads your customers to shop at one store instead of another? Why do customers buy from you and not from someone else? If you’re a distributor (Amway for example) in the direct selling (network marketing) industry you face the same challenge: what leads customers to buy the product from you instead of from another distributor? What leads prospects to join your organization instead of another? It’s because of your uniqueness; your differentiation. The Law of Attraction states that you will attract others to you based upon your similarities. This is true in personal relationships just as it is in business relationships.

From what I have experienced in my many business ventures, including a long term background with Amway is that no 'System' can duplicate the Determination, Motivation, & Perseverance of the entrepreneurial spirit.

6 Questions to Answer About Your MLM Target Niche

2009-09-26T12:36:00.000-07:00

Everyone is NOT a prospect for your network marketing business. Certain people need and are looking for each of your products. Certain people need and are looking for your business opportunity. Who are they, where are they, and how do you connect with them?

The process of choosing your MLM target niche is part of MARKETING. Ironically, the "marketing" is missing in most network marketing businesses. Running your network marketing business like a true business will require you to implement effective marketing strategies. . . and will lead to success!

After going through the 7 Steps to Choosing Your MLM Target Niche Market, you'll be able to answer these 6 questions:

What is your market?
What problem is your market seeking a solution to?
How are you positioned as their solutions provider?
What product(s) is your market looking for to solve their problem?
How does your market want the product delivered? The delivery and the customer experience can be more important than the product itself. The success of Starbucks is a great example.
Describe your ideal customers. What are their demographics? What do they like to do? What do they think about? Where do they go and when? (either physically or in cyberspace) This description is also known as your customer avatar.

After answering these questions, the first part of your MLM marketing plan will be done! The next step is to determine what your personal marketing activities will be. Those activities will be a natural result of who your target market is. And once you determine what your activities will be, you can begin implementing them.

Know that you can choose more than one niche market, but you’ll need to focus on creating your marketing funnel for one niche at a time. The niche for your business opportunity will be completely different from the niche for your product. And if your MLM offers multiple products, each product (or group of products) will also have a different niche. So one key to your success in network marketing is to choose a niche for each separate product, then set up a marketing funnel for that niche, focusing on just one at a time until you have multiple niches and funnels.

When you, your product, your delivery, and your target market are in alignment, you’ll be in your “sweet spot”. Taking the time to go through the process of finding your sweet spot will ensure your network marketing business is positioned for success.

7 Steps to Choosing Your MLM Target Niche

2009-09-26T12:28:00.000-07:00

I can’t emphasize this enough: choosing your niche is the foundation of all your network marketing activities. If you choose a “bad” niche or don’t choose one at all, your hard work will not yield optimum results. I see this all the time: distributors who work really hard in their business but are not profitable. Focusing the same efforts toward the right target audience will make a huge difference in the success of your business.

7 Steps to Choosing Your Niche

Self assessment
Look for trends and hot topics.
Make a list of markets you’re interested in.
Find a market related to a topic you’re knowledgeable about.
Find a market that is underserved.
Check the competition in that market.
Find a market where you won’t have to convince your customers that they need your product.

You can – and should – complete the above 7 steps iteratively. That means you won't necessarily follow them in the exact order they're listed, and you'll probably need to go back and revisit some steps as you begin to "flesh out" your target market.

You should revisit this process periodically to make sure your small business and marketing efforts are in tune with the marketplace and you are positioned for long-term success.

After completing all 7 steps for determining your small business niche, you’ll be prepared to answer the 6 Questions About Your MLM Target Niche.

UPDATE: In partnership with MyBizTutor, we now have a FREE worksheet available to help guide you through the 7 Steps to Choosing Your MLM Target Niche.

MLM Lie: Everyone is Your Prospect

2009-09-24T15:30:00.000-07:00

Early in my Amway network marketing experience I was told that everyone is my prospect. Eventually I figured out on my own that it wasn't true. Now that I know better, I've learned how to choose a target market, or niche, and why it's so important.

Which Comes First: Product or Niche?

I’m convinced that the product and niche must be determined iteratively. That means that you work first on one, then the other, making adjustments to both as you alternate between them.

In practice, while you are choosing your niche, you are also analyzing whether your product fits your niche. The result may be that the product you offer is modified or even changed completely.

The objective in choosing your niche market is to align your message to the customer. The message is a combination of you, your product, and your message delivery. By following this process you will also begin to develop your brand.

Amway: A (Twitter) Birds-Eye View

2009-09-13T11:22:00.001-07:00

I've been following, via Twitter, the attitudes and thoughts of those who have been pestered and literally chased by an Amway Independent Business Owner (IBO). Twitter, in particular, is an eye opener because a 140 character tweet reveals so much about the network marketing and direct selling industry.

The internet exposes old school "marketing"techniques as electronic spam, in contrast to the new school, consultative attraction marketing model. Attraction marketing provides relevant information in a convenient format that adds value to potential clients and business partners alike, and gets your foot in the door much more effectively than chasing a prospect down in the grocery store with CD in hand.

The people at Amway Corporation are outstanding. The products are arguably the best in their categories. The Corporation, with 50 years of experience under its belt, understands what it takes for its IBOs to make a profit. But the marketing strategies STINK.

I assure you that you can enjoy being an IBO, sell products, expand your organization, and even make a profit by ditching the marketing techniques that are stuck in the 60's. If you're an Amway IBO, simply replace your old school marketing techniques with attraction marketing strategies to expand your business beyond your wildest dreams.

Click here to learn more about attraction marketing and how to implement it in your business.

Amway Marketing: Stuck in the 60's?

2009-09-06T17:26:00.000-07:00

What do Woodstock, flower children, Timothy Leary, and the good old Volkswagon van have in common? That’s right – they were popular in the 1960’s. If you were “in” Amway back then, you were taught to talk to your friends, family, and neighbors about your business opportunity and products. Why? Well, for one thing, most advertising at that time was done through mass media like TV, radio, and print ads in newspapers and magazines. The cost for mass media advertising was prohibitive for most distributors, so they were urged to use word of mouth advertising instead.

Fast forward fifty years. The internet has changed everything. Technology and social trends have converged to create a unique opportunity for network marketers to target their niche market inexpensively and efficiently using the internet. However, most Amway distributors are still being taught to use word of mouth “advertising”. WHY?

The “marketing” in network marketing is usually completely overlooked. Marketing is a dynamic, ever-changing challenge; an art. (BTW, handing out your business card with your website on it is not “marketing”!) One of the keys to effective marketing is to position your message where your customers are. More customers are online because of trends like high speed connections, lower prices, mobile devices, and social networking.

The internet has made targeting your market much easier than was ever possible using “traditional” mass media. You can use search engine optimization to help ensure that potential customers and prospects will find you while searching for information. Google AdWords can place your electronic ad on very specifically targeted websites so that the very people most likely to be interested in your opportunity or products will see it. And social sites like Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter help get the word out.

Internet Attraction Marketing

The internet, even in its most social form, is still somewhat anonymous and impersonal. People have a basic social need to connect with others. Internet attraction marketing is a relatively new model in which the first connection in made online, a relationship is initiated and mutual trust is built, and gradually the relationship grows to a more personal level using the phone, email, etc. Eventually the relationship may result in a face-to-face meeting. Does this sound like a courtship to you? That’s because it is!

Taking the courtship concept one step further, there’s a certain amount of finesse required to use the power of the internet to your advantage. The key is to avoid using the same old prospecting techniques that don’t work very well, and just moving them online. As a network marketer, you will reap huge benefits by courting your customers, not marrying them on the first date!

Is Word of Mouth Advertising Dead?

There is a general backlash against “spamming”, evidenced by the Do Not Call registry, avoidance of commercial interruptions on TV and radio, and blockage of spam email. Word of mouth advertising is oftentimes just spamming done in person. Online spamming is, unfortunately, prevalent on social sites like Twitter. Sometimes called “spray and pray”, this marketing “technique” sounds like a skunk, and is about as appealing!

That said, word of mouth advertising still works - sometimes. However, we consumers prefer information on our terms and on our timeline, not when and where it’s convenient for a zealous network marketer who wants to sell something. I believe it’s a result of information overload, a natural response to TMI (too much information). Not only is the internet an highly effective medium for network marketers, it’s also an efficient way for consumers to find the products and business opportunities they’re looking for, especially when attraction marketing techniques are used.

Love-the-Business

2009-08-23T14:52:00.000-07:00

After 50 years in business, millions of people enjoy the products but the marketing program just didnt work. I wondered for a long time why I could be successful at other business ventures but only remain average(according to Amway financial information).
I asked for your comments…….

You’ve said “I love the products” SA-8, Nutulite, XS, Artistry but you feel guilty using them because you are not growing your business

You’ve said “I love to be associated with so many great people” but can’t justify the time and expense to maintain these associations.

You’ve said “I love the business concept”, but expected more results.

Because of the Internet, Today’s Business, and Society, are light years apart from the Old School days of just 10 years ago….According to The Renegade Network Marketer by Ann Sieg, Attracting Marketing works because a “ prospect that comes to you is Infinitely more qualified than any on you could ever approach yourself”. We have all bought into the lie #1 of The 7 great lies of Network Marketing “Everybody is a prospect” My next article will be about why you should get back on board and navigate your ship to the land of freedom. Send me you comments…

MLM succuss Formula

2009-08-16T11:15:00.001-07:00

Clear+Consistant = successful Internet Marketer
This quote is from Ann Sieg’s The Renegade Network Marketer “ People don’t like to be sold but they love to buy, and good marketing is about creating a situation where people can buy on
their own. Educational marketing sets them up so that they can, because useful educational content turns the tables and makes it so that it’s their idea. The more information they digest, the less they need to be sold. They’re selling themselves.”

It is this understanding that I believe will turn “shout it out’ script reciting , no money making network marketer’s MLM failure philosophy to a genuine, value added , business model with an online marketing strategy that generates revenue by attracting customers pre-sold on your ideas, products and services.

Part 2 of this blog I will write how Clarity, Consistency attract the right Customer regardless of industry, product or service.

Are you Having Fun?

2009-07-22T19:41:00.000-07:00

A good barometer for success can be as simple as your answer to the question: Are You Having Fun? Mentors in my Network Marketing organization have described what success felt like to them: always humming a tune, a contagious smile, no problems, and walking on a cloud. Researchers note that happiness with what you do creates less stress, increased satisfaction, a sustainable loyalty to your own business, and stimulated creativity while improving customer service and productivity.

You are unique. Regardless of whatever blogs, tweet, scripts, lingo, and lists are provided to you, your success is directly related to how you personalize them to reflect who you are. Utilizing your unique talents helps you succeed. For instance, I know that two of my greatest talents are my tenacity and creativity. My tenacity allows me to stick to a problem until a solution is found, and my creative ideas never turn off.

How can this concept help your business?
Find a business niche that allows you to showcase your talents. For me, I believe the network marketing industry demonstrates America’s capitalistic, free enterprise system, with the added bonus of allowing the small guy compete along side of industry giants. Network marketing and attraction network marketing suits my personality. My tenacity and creativity give me the drive to work with a wide variety of people, business situations, and opportunities. I like the idea of using attraction marketing to provide value as a way to demonstrate a real, meaningful justification for my clients, customers, and prospects to work with me.

Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful. Herman Cain

MyBizTutor - Learn How Business+Internet+Marketing=Success - Internet Marketing Business School - The "New" Model of Retail Marketing

2009-07-07T18:29:00.000-07:00

MyBizTutor - Learn How Business+Internet+Marketing=Success - Internet Marketing Business School - The "New" Model of Retail Marketing: "If a customer is not looking for the product or service you offer, it's useless to try to sell it to them. In fact, it's actually counter-productive, because it clearly sends a message of disrespect and practically guarantees that the customer will go elsewhere for future purchases, even if they're looking for your product or service. Let me say it another way: Avoid this marketing model!
It's interesting to note that network marketers commonly use this 'say and spray it' marketing technique. It's essentially spamming done in person. I have to wonder: if it doesn't work for them, then why are big retailers like Sears adopting it? There's a MUCH better way: Market your products and services in a way that makes it easy for customers to find you when they're ready to buy, and are therefore receptive to your message."

High-Tech High-Touch

2009-06-26T12:28:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of the book Megatrends, authored in 1982 by futurist John Naisbitt? This book discusses the correlation between the human need to balance technological advances with more personal touches in our personal and work relationships. John is recognized as the first to use the term “High Tech, High Touch”. Social networks like Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace provide a unique opportunity for High Tech – High Touch methods of connecting with customers and prospects. Starting a business using these methods can provide financial security for those who understand how to effectively implement them. In May 2009 Twitter logged 4.2 million people searching for stuff, while producing over 30 million queries.

Current economic conditions, combined with the technology of social networks, present a huge opportunity for forward-thinking business-minded individuals. The worst job market in 26 years may be the perfect time to start a business, according to Tim Kane, a senior fellow in Research and Policy at the Kauffman Foundation.

If you already own a business, social networking allows you to blend in-person and online experiences to create more in-depth personal relationships. Using this internet attraction marketing strategy to teach, inform and solve problems for your customers is much more efficient and effective than the use of old-school mass media advertising or targeting a limited geographic area. Now is the time to throw away your old-school sales scripts and start using today’s internet technology trends while providing high quality customer service.

To learn exactly how to implement this strategy, take advantage of a free consultation.

The Missing Link

2009-06-08T20:37:00.000-07:00

Who is succeeding in Internet Network Marketing? It is a great business model with a benefit of being available to everyone… regardless of background. Ah…The Fulfillment of the American Dream. One (BIG) problem . 97% of network marketing businesses fail to make any money. Why? “Old School” marketing can’t compete to today’s online marketing strategies.

I was taught:
1. to take advantage of my relationships with family and friends.
2. to canvass the shopping mall.
3. to be on the lookout at the gas station.
4. to observe who is reading books at the book store.

So, how is that working for you? I have had many other businesses and not one of those marketing plans ever called for canvassing the checkout stand at the grocery store. I need a real business marketing plan for a real business. Do you know the 7 great lies of Network Marketing?

Whatever happened to providing value and putting the consideration of the customer first? It is clear to me, that in most cases (97%) the “Marketing” is the missing component in Network Marketing.

Attraction Marketing addresses all these issues. Solving problems and providing value is the ultimate aphrodisiac for any customer, client or prospect.

Do you see any truth here? Fact/Fiction Anyone can succeed in Networking Marketing

Marketing Consistency Equals Trust

2009-06-04T19:33:00.000-07:00

I just came across an article the caught my interest:
In Advertising, Consistency Pays Off…Your ability to sustain a long-term advertising program shows customers that you're a successful, reliable brand by Steve McKee.

The thought is the more your product is exposed to your audience the more opportunities it earn to build trust with your prospects. Or another way to say, when in doubt, bombard everyone with as much stuff until our name is ingrained on the brain without a thought as to those who want to know-or not, about your product or service.

The end of the article states “The specific content of your ads is, of course, of vital importance as well—…without being misleading, annoying, or ignorant. But what's true of your career, of sports, and of life in general is also true of advertising: never underestimate the power of simply showing up. “ It’s the last part that rubs me wrong…simply showing up.

First, an effective long term marketing campaign involves considering the customer first. When I was 16 years old I participated in several Dale Carnegie workshops on “Effective Speaking and “How to Win Friends and Influence People” A great quote is applicable here, “You can make more friends in two months by becoming more interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get people interested in you.” Today’s Internet 2.0 allows any serious company regardless of size to have a 2 way dialog with customers, prospects and business, even in real time.

A good internet marketing plan attracts customers by considering the viewpoint of the customers and not spewing a sales pitch as fast as possible. Remember, customers buy for their own reasons, not yours. Dales Carnegie also says “When dealing with people, remember you are not dealing with creatures of logic, but creatures of emotion” and with well know that people will buy based on emotion and back it up with logic.

Trust is a powerful emotion. An Internet Marketing Plan based on customer values, solving the prospect problems and teaching rather than selling is far better than simply showing up to peddle your product or service. I recommend checking out Ann Sieg’s “The Renegade Network University”

Marketing is About Teaching

2009-06-03T17:45:00.001-07:00

I pulled this quote from a May 14th article by Lisa Barone.
"Although American small businesses are admired for their ingenuity and aggressiveness, this is another area where they struggle, earning the equivalent of a ‘C-‘ in the Marketing and Innovation sub-index. Small businesses are not as successful as they would like to be in effectively marketing themselves to grow their business beyond their current size."
I have noticed that while small business owners have a passion for their specific hobby, skill or talent, the Marketing Plan seems to be an annoying afterthought....especially when we are not generating any revenue.
So, when I read the article that I mentioned above, I did some more research on the extent Small Business utilizes the Internet as a mass media outlet.Only 12 percent of small business take advantage of the ridiculously low cost of marketing their business online. Or, 87 percent of small business, many in perhaps in your industry, are paying for "Old School" marketing that is becoming increasingly annoying compared to today's social media platform on the Internet.
I see a huge opportunity, for that 12 percent to build a following by teaching not selling. You have a great ultra low cost mechanism to differentiate yourself from your competition which will give you an incredible market advantage. Talking directly with your niche market group builds trust and promotes you as an authority figure within your industry.
Remember people usually buy or make a commitment not because of a product or company, but from the relationship that was established. When you are willing to do what 87 percent of small business is not, and you teach (not sell) the value of your product or service, you will secure yourself as an expert in your field enjoy a long term marketing plan that will produce consistent results.

If I Build It, They Will Come -- Right?

2009-05-26T18:17:00.000-07:00

You've decided to start your own business. You have unique expertise for providing a competitive product or service. Consumers want your product. You've taken all the necessary steps for going into business: decided what the ownership entity will be, filed paperwork for the business name and license, paid your fees, set up a website, even completed a business plan.

Now what?
How will customers find you? How will they know you're in business? More importantly, who are your customers?
I have learned this the hard way: if undercapitalization is the #1 reason for small business failure, then lack of an effective marketing plan must be a close second.
mar⋅ket⋅ing (verb) : the art of connecting buyers and sellers
The truth is, if you build it, they might not come. Without proper marketing activities, your precious start-up funding will be drained quickly.
Marketing is critical for ALL businesses -- even small internet-based work-from-home businesses. In fact, if you get started in a network marketing business, you may believe that the marketing is taken care of for you. The reality is this:
If you fail to create a personalized marketing plan, you will fail.
Sorry - I don't mean to sound harsh, but like I said, I've learned this the hard way.
Here are four tips to get you started on a marketing plan that will work:
1. Realize that YOU are your business.
You may be thinking, "No, my business is my business." But who is conducting the business? Who makes the decisions? Who do your customers deal with? Who hires the employees? Your business is a reflection of you, like it or not.
2. Determine your market.
Here's a saying I heard recently, "The smaller your niche, the more you get rich". Now, getting rich may not be your objective, but you are in business to make a profit. As one of my mentors, Ann Sieg, says,
"Nothing will determine your long term success more than the ability to pick the right audience and qualify your prospects."

3. Detail your marketing activities.
At the minimum. determine what marketing activities you will initially engage in. They'll probably change over time. Now you're probably thinking two things: "I don't know anything about marketing" and "How much will marketing cost? Isn't it expensive?". Even if you don't know anything about marketing right now, don't worry. Marketing using the internet is not hard, and many methods are even free or extremely low cost. A word of caution, though: "word of mouth" is NOT an effective method for reaching your target market.
4. Write out a marketing plan.
I urge you to put it in writing, even if it's just a bulleted list or a draft. That way you can refer back to it and modify it as needed. A written plan will also help keep you on track.

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2009-01-10T09:26:00.000-08:00

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2009-01-10T04:27:00.000-08:00

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Subscribe to Weekly Recap: Social Media for Small Business

2009-01-01T20:00:00.000-08:00

Recap Week of Nov 23rd 2009

2009-01-01T11:10:00.000-08:00

On-Off
Remember, we were social offline before online existed! Here are some facts, figures, and thoughts on how social media is changing our offline lives and business. RisMedia just published an article about Redefining Lives Online and Offline. Online social media is allowing us to experience cyberdisinhibition, “a willingness to behave differently than usual online", with 48.7 percent claiming to have met new people they never would have met offline. What is super exciting is the connection between the social impact of the telephone and the social media scene today ... just the thought! WOW.

Vision
An Iconic brand re-sets its vision using social media. A company with roots back to the 1880's controls almost 51% of its market and is adopting a social media strategy. For me, that speaks volumes. Here is the article but the best quote is below.

The brand is also recognizing the power of consumer-generated content and social media. "Among Coca-Cola's most powerful differentiators are the stories only our brand can tell," said Ms. Clark. "But we're not the only ones that can tell our story. Much of our content comes from our consumers. It's the phenomenon of social media. Consumers remind us daily that Coca-Cola is actually their brand, not our brand." To that end, the company is launching Expedition 206, an ambitious global social-media push.

A Business Necessity! After reading this article, I immediately got that feeling we are part of the BIGGEST business - social - communication development ever! In his article, Like it or not, social media is becoming a business necessity, Mikal J. Caldwell points out that "if Facebook were a country, it would be the eighth largest in the world by population, ahead of both Japan and Russia." How about this statement from Ford who is turning to social media for marketing boost:

"We didn't break the bank. We didn't use traditional media. We tried something different, and it is working" said Connie Fontaine, Ford Brand and Content Alliances manager.
Prius: http://www.facebook.com/prius
Ford: http://www.facebook.com/fiestamovement

Social
Business is War? Yes, there are those who look at business that way and this article was intended for that audience -- not the social crowd. It is interesting to see how social media practices and mindset are at play. JK Harris writes that "a better strategy is to build alliances with your competitors and let them help you become better and stronger." 7 shrewd strategies for forging alliances--and staying ahead of the pack is the title of the article but especially check out these 3 strategies:
Develop relationships with your competitors
Be prepared to cooperate and collaborate when necessary
Resist the urge to compete on price

Of all the authors represented on my book shelves, John Maxwell, one of the foremost authorities on the topic of Leadership, occupies the most spots. Nadira Haniff has posted an article titled The Law Of Accountability which is an outstanding match of social media qualities that are uncomplicated and powerful with John Maxwell’s 5 C’s of accountability:
1. Character
2. Competence
3. Commitment
4. Consistency
5. Cohesion

Strategy
We have known this for over 2,500 years...
“Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.” – 500 B.C. Chinese General.
Linda Evans in her article put it this way, “...Implementing social media marketing tactics for Marketing Tactics vs Social Media Strategy any reason without a sound strategy in place will ultimately lead to confusion, and then disappointment in your efforts in the social media space. It's a lot like throwing darts blind. You're throwing them without knowing what or where the bull's-eye is. Once in a while you might hit the dartboard, and it would be a miracle if you hit the bull's-eye."
Linda asks us to consider these points:
o Answer the "Why" - Do you know where your audience is?
o How to Deploy - and gain respect
o Define Goals - What is Success
o When to Re-Evaluate - This is a continuous process
For more specific tips on how to implement both tactics and strategy in your business, check out the business and marketing articles at MyBizTutor.

(SBS)Sustainable Business Strategy - Great article about 3 elements of social media to include: strategy, tools, and people. What if . . . we added simplicity? A (KISS) Keep it Strategic and Social leg would only beef up an already solid foundation. Here is a very simple article by ShoeStringBranding.
Holiday tip - check your favorite retailer’s Facebook and Twitter pages Now. Experimentation this year will bring Standardization next year. Marshal Cohen, chief retail industry analyst for the research firm NPD Group says, "Last year was all about value and price reductions and deep discounts, this year, it's less about the deep discounts and more about their attempts to use social media. Next year, they may actually figure out how to use it, and whoever comes up with a good formula, they won't even wait until the holiday. They will be all over it." Retailers seek early birds through tweets and don't have to wait until Friday!

Sales
The Magical difference - According to Bill Rice, if sales is the lifeblood of any organization then Social Selling Beats the Collector Every Time

Social sales people listen to people, talk to people, and meet people. They put faces on their contacts. They have people following them. They don’t have to have collect people–people collect them.

The magical difference with a social strategy is you are a leader. You more often than not are leading people to the sale, not dragging them there.

Future
R U thinking 2010? - Great article by David Siteman Garland, and I boiled it down to 3 keys for successful marketing next year.

1. Strategy: What are the concrete goals? No, not amount of followers. Hard analytics: Increase sales, amount of business partnerships, amount of leads, % increase to email list. ROI can measured by Pre-Social Media vs. Engaging In Social Media. No, I don’t recommend using social media for direct sales, but instead forming relationships for all businesses, quality customer service, personal touch and more. If you do all that, the sales will happen if you have the right strategy.

2. Technology: Understanding the technology and using the key tools is a no-brainer. But I’m talking about REALLY understanding the functionality, how to build relationships, and what sites are correct for your company and situation.

3. Key Resources: (1). NOTHING replaces human interaction (2). Engaging, replying, etc. is key to marketing success on social media. In fact, not doing it will cause a backlash: “Company X doesn’t ‘get’ social media.” It is called social for a reason. Worth repeating: NOTHING replaces human interaction.

Now What?
Maybe you’re thinking, “Well, sure, this all makes sense and sounds great, BUT how do I put it into practice??” Here’s a link to the training program that has helped me. Hope it helps you, too!

Recap Week of December 7th, 2009

2009-01-01T10:51:00.000-08:00

Localized Social Media and in Real Time…
The city I live in (Temecula Ca) is a destination for many day trips in southern California (Casinos, Wine Tasting, historical Old Town). With the advancement of Real Time searches, I see a big potential for those businesses that are engaging in social media. Visitors naturally want current, time relevant information to make the most of their stay. Erin Harrison talks about the positive impact real time searches has on social media and Pat Romanski describes extending your reach (geographically) to bring awareness.

It will hopefully place the onus on brands to maximize their marketing output in social media, as they stand to benefit from this activity now more than ever in terms of achieving consumer engagement and driving traffic to their Web site

The appearance of social media content in search engine results will serve to enhance the reach of social media chatter, and will therefore enhance the benefit of positive conversations

This is why social media marketing gives neighborhood businesses a competitive advantage over the super warehouse stores. The quotes below are courtesy of Manish Mehta and the Huffington Post.

The "Mom and Pop" businesses in our neighborhoods have always followed sound and pragmatic business practices, rooted in developing, maintaining and strengthening relationships with customers. The customers and the businesses valued those relationships because "Mom and Pop" offered convenience. They listened to their customers and used their suggestions to improve the business. They provided great service and found ways to thank their clientele. Social media is really nothing more than the simple application of these business practices in a digital form.

As with the corner store, if your business uses social media to engage in conversations on a human level, you strengthen your business and allow your strategy -- both corporate and social media -- to evolve based on customer feedback

Reading this quote by Linda Evans from today's article, you can begin to understand why this is the case where small is big. If you need more excitement, read what foursquare is doing for business.

Small businesses have some huge advantages in social media over the Walmarts of the world. Businesses like this karaoke company example are nimble enough to go out, shoot video, and turn it out the next day to their YouTube channel. They also have a much easier time personally connecting with their audience because, more likely than not, they know the majority of them personally.

Those personal connections make it much easier to build your communities in social media sites like Facebook and MySpace. People readily become your fan, recommend you to other local friends, and tag and submit their own photos that help promote your local business

Overall it’s about selling awareness
I can't tell you how many time residents in my own town of Temecula, California told me that they didn't know we have a vibrant, unique, historical "Old Town" packed with specialty shops and diverse dining. It usually takes a large community event to bring out the locals but these events don't happen frequently enough to promote consistent revenue for those businesses.

My guess is that as business owner, you already own the tools needed to promote awareness to a large geographic area. blogtrepreneur.com makes this bold statement: "The fact that you are engaging in social media circles is effectively marketing enough for you. In other words, your presence is your marketing tool. By all means provide great quality information and get involved in a conversation relevant to your product or service, but never, ever direct sell something. Note that the minute you do this, you have lost all the credibility and trust that you have been working hard to build up through these social media channels." In essence social media marketing is about that kick back SOCAL attitude that’s not pushy yet is recognized for its rightful value. Lawrence Perry writes in his article, "Social media marketing is all about image-building and trust-building. You can use social media to broaden market awareness and that awareness will lead to sales." When people travel or purchase products they usually go for locations brands that they know and trust.

It’s just human nature to be "Social". Combine Technology, Economy (or lack thereof) and you have the ingredients for a Super medium that will trump Television, Newspaper and Radio combined. What you are hearing, reading about, or engaging in (for the advanced) is a new medium that was not created at some executive power luncheon; it is being developed, implemented and re-created daily by us . . . the collective consumer, customer, owner, retailer, entrepreneur. Wrap your mind around these fact and figures by tweetbloggin.biz under the heading "Here are some interesting and somewhat disturbing facts about Social Media as a marketing and advertising vehicle"

1. Three out of four Americans use social networks
2. Visiting social networks is more popular than personal email or online pornography 3. Facebook is used more than 80,000,000 hours daily
4. Michael Jackson, Barack Obama and Vin Diesel have close to 30,000,000 fans combined on Facebook. That’s the equivalent of the entire population of Canada
5. Generation “Y”ers will outnumber Baby Boomers in 2010.
6. 96% of Generation “Y”ers has joined a social network
7. Studies show that Wikipedia is more accurate that Encyclopedia Britannica
25 more interesting facts

Strategy
Social Media Marketing Compass by BryanNewMedia: "True North" in Social Media Marketing is developing a magnetic presence that leads your community to Know, Like and Trust your brand. Bryan has very simple (good thing) definitions regarding social media strategy. While he is finalizing his graph try this dynamic social marketing funnel and add How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie to your business library.

*Listen - "First seek to understand then to be understood".
*Engage -"They don't care how much U know until they know how much U care"
*Connect - "Be the perfect host, build a campfire for your community to sit around and swap stories"
*Share - "Become a trusted source by regularly and consistently sharing market leadership content".

Social Commerce
We are getting our first real glimpse at the impact social media will play on commerce as we enter the next decade...quote from ComScore Chairman Gian Fulgoni and article by Inyoung Hwang

Having a social media marketing strategy makes sense for retailers in this environment because it’s cost-effective and shows an effort to get closer to one’s customers
The momentum continues this holiday season as companies really start to value two-way communication,” said Tom Arrix, vice president of U.S. sales at Palo Alto, California-based Facebook. “Social shopping” is the main new e-commerce trend on the site
Our customers are spending a lot of time connecting with each other in these online communities, and we want to be there,” said Nick Bomersbach, director of jcp.com. “Oftentimes they’re talking about brands, and we want to have an open avenue to have that dialogue.”

Commerce
Social media helps this online-only company go from 0 ---> 1.2 billion in sales. I am talking about Zappos, a company you can read more about from Jeff Bullas's blog article . Just for the record, I want to say the Zappos is the only billion dollar company that tweeted me after a previous blog I posted about the company. This is a company whose actions surpass their words. Here are a few of the 17 revelations of this “etailer”:

The Differentiator: Customer service and interaction
It’s not even looking for a return on that investment (ROI). “We don’t assign metrics to it,’’ Hsieh says. “It’s really just about our unwavering belief that making the customer happier is going to win in the long run.” There’s no way...to trace a straight line from all this dialogue, digital or otherwise, to the company’s ability to sell shoes
Social Media Marketing Campaigns: This is built on building up the human side of Zappos, as if showing humanity and personality is totally counter-culture amongst faceless private (or public) companies. And asking only one thing of employees: “Just be yourself’’
Zappos’ 4 keys to great online retailing:
1 Do what you say you’re going to do, promptly.
2 Deliver the exact products ordered, on time.
3 Take returns without a hitch.
4 Avoid complaints and frustrated customers, with angry (and costly) messages

Recap Week of December 28th, 2009

2009-01-01T09:29:00.000-08:00

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Small Business Strategy
Lets break it down to some simple actions to start the new year. I've posted Lisa's articles before and she has a good perspective on what will/won't work. So remember, being social is a behavior not a tool.

1. Don’t go in thinking about ROI: Start by Thinking Networking not Numbers
2. Focus on the actions that matter: Listen Give Engage
3. Schedule time for it: Just like anything else of Value
4. Seek out local prospects: It’s about selling awareness
5. Look outside Twitter the box: Social Malls all across the Web
6. Learn from those before you: Top 150 social influencers
7. Take it Offline: We were social off line first!

"You're a lean, mean, fighting machine!"- Bill Murray as John Winger in Stripes. That's what John Winger would say to You - small business. Leadership and social media share common boundaries; just read this Tweeple-Byte "@shanegibson: SM Tip: "Many people will quit, shun and criticize social media marketing when they realize it's actually about leadership." Here is a great article by Richard Mammone, who says "The best type of market growth comes from making the pie larger for everyone, rather than just making your slice larger within the pie... The McKinsey survey also found that most businesses do not innovate to counter a competitor's threat. Instead senior management reacts with a knee-jerk response, moving down the tree and matching a competitor's price change or imitating its new product or feature... Gathering market intelligence is the first step." (Listen)

It's just natural ~~not a department~~ to be Social. One of today's Tweeple-Byte describes this article in 140 characters..."#10.@SalesDuJour: Social networking is older than technology and will outlive the internet. Be social and network wherever you are. #Sales #Marketing #Tip " . John @ducttape marketing puts it this way: "Now that hype surrounding the next new thing has settled a bit, businesses are coming around to the understanding that social media isn’t a department or separate marketing tactic. In fact, It’s not so much a tool as it is a behavior. And as such it can and should permeate the whole of the business."

Click here is receive a weekly copy of Social media for small business and Entrepreneurs in your Inbox
Social Conversations

Keep it simple and short when the conversation is the written word. I will let this article by Ari Herzog speak for itself. All I will say is...what an example! Mmmm... maybe why Twitter can be so effective?

Aoccdrnig to a rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn’t mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a wrod are, the olny iprmoetnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be at the rghit pclae. The rset can be a total mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit porbelm. Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.

Social construction builds small business success. Although Doug Brockway doesn't talk about the KISS (Keep It Strategic and Simple) , I like the part that talks about cutting through the layers of business as a way to "...taking out intermediate steps, processes, systems and people no longer needed to get to an end point. It may be a long time, or it may be tomorrow, but social media’s success at this is likely to occur in your business and you don’t want to be the last to know. "

Three main reasons why social media is important to business. ... #1 It allows a company to build a community and engage in two-way dialogue with customers, the media, partners and other key external stakeholders, and internally with employees. #2 It allows for collaboration through what social mediaistas call “crowdsourcing,” to enhance products, gain insights, and improve customer service. And, #3 it enables a company to reach a broader market with fewer dollars.

It's time to go from Listening to Leading: Jason Cormier sneaked in this article right at Christmas, and it is worth looking at today. "I'll summarize the model by saying the ultimate value of starting conversations is in building and sustaining your brand as a leader."

Leadership, like almost everything that enabled your company's success, must be earned. Each (maturity) level within the pyramid model is representative of where your brand may be in any given conversation about a product, service, industry, etc

What Happens when Small Business Thinks Big. David Hauser says "brand loyalists don’t just buy your product and pledge allegiance to your brand, they’ll also help you market it to others and grow your influence even when you’re not aware of it. Having an army of brand loyalists will also help you refine your product or service through customer feedback, and in turn, enhance customer satisfaction and boost brand loyalty."

How do you build an army of brand loyalists?
1. Add value first.
2. Listen. Then listen some more.
3. Make a human connection.
4. Promote your customers.
5. Create a culture of responsibility.

Recap Week of Nov 30th 2009

2009-01-01T09:05:00.000-08:00

Listen
Listening is one of the first ingredients for a successful social media marketing mindset. 2 ears/2 eyes are better than 1 mouth/1 mouse. Read this quote by Sam Mutimer on how McDonald’s utilizes Social Media to their advantage -- Oh yea, have some fun too!

McDonald’s first steps are focusing on Acknowledging, listening and engaging with their audience, whilst being open to feedback. They also focus on making the journey fun. Social media can be an extremely fun and creative process, and they seem to be really focusing on these values

What is the result of active listening? You are able to provide directed, specific content of high value to a well defined group. What does that generate? Influence, trust, and authority that continues until your communications have reached the golden "trusted relationship" stage. John Bell's article on Radical Listening gives us 5 practical skills to learn.

Influence
How much social real estate does your brand own? If you consider each social site (Twitter, Facebook, MySpace), blog and/or website as a square on the Monopoly board, then you want to build as many hotels as possible for your “tribes” to congregate. Adam Wood has a great article talking about real-time searches, social real estate and your brand.

It is unrealistic to expect all pote¬ntial customers to flock straight to a brand's controlled web spaces when they are search¬ing for its name online. It is just as likely that the first page they will visit is a third-party site, such as a comparison engine, a blog or a forum post.

This presents an even more critical reason for brands to ensure they have a voice in the social areas of the web

brands are now forced to dance to social media's tune, because of its significant and growing influence on natural search results. Brands that take a healthy role in online conversations that concern them will be repaid in better natural search rankings for their sites and social-media pages; by con¬trast, those that ignore them may find their search results dominated by negative comments and unanswered issues

Think about it...just seeing a brand all over town projects a strong sense of influence and authority.

Customer
Opportunities Revealed...behind the numbers. Brian Solis' article Socialized Media: The Powerful Effects of Online Brand Interaction peals back the statistical numbers you are reading in many articles and blogs and shows us the reality of an "earned relationship" -- thanks Brian.

• Before we are marketers, we are consumers. We make decisions based on our experiences, observations and research. We also heavily rely upon recommendations of friends, peers, and influencers, and they have embraced social media as their platforms for exercising authority. It is the convergence of online and real-world dialogue that leads to action
• The buyology of consumers spans from awareness to consideration to purchase to experience to recommendation or discouragement
• If we are not present within the attention dashboards of our existing customers and prospects, we intentionally remove ourselves from their decision-making funnel. Consumers are among the new influencers as they now have access to the same tools and channels that reach peers and shape their impressions.

Social marketing and commerce
Marketing is the next word -> "Social Marketing". John Jantsch gives us 7 Simple Truths of Social Media Marketing with lot of great insight behind each one. What gets my attention is his simple little statement..."the fundamentals of marketing are the same, only the platforms have changed". Note: Another example of "Listening" as your launch pad to success in social media marketing. Good job John!
Read the notes from a CEO of content and document management solutions company.

Social media marketing has rapidly become one of the most powerful ways to build brands, grow customer bases and drive those potential customers to e-commerce Web sites. But what do these social media savvy customers do when they get there? What is going to drive them to follow through on the branding they’ve been exposed to and make a purchase?

Social media is all about the user experience. By putting a powerful social experience around the e-commerce part of your site you can give site visitors an interactive experience that will influence and accelerate their purchase decisions

Benjamins, C-note, clams, smackers, and greenbacks. At some point you are going to want to convert your Social Equity into some liquid funds useable in the real world. Here are some great thoughts from a new pdf entitled The Art of Social Sales available from thecustomercollective.com (hint: the 1st step is to Listen):

The social customer expects that you will respect what they do and how they participate in forums that might relate to what you are selling. Tread lightly. Rather than jump into the forums and communities where your customers are conversing online about products like yours—a death sentence—follow the advice of marketing maven Seth Godin: “date your customer.”
In the case of online communities and forums, participate as an expert and member rather than a sales pusher. Provide expertise to help solve problems. Converse with prospects or customers on relevant topics. Don’t push a pitch. Consider developing a regular podcast, an Internet based radio show, to provide some useful pontification
on a subject of interest to your customers.

Future
Only 27 more days until 2010...what’s on the horizon? Start mapping out your 2010 path. Here is a very short news article on social media trends for the new year:
1. Social media will be more local (I have seen this statement over and over)
2. Handsets will become an imperative part of social media
3. Less social will be the social media
4. Scalability will be the mantra
5. Email will take a backseat

Recap Week of November 16th, 2009

2009-01-01T08:01:00.000-08:00

Articles this week offered perspective on how the customer responds when the sales, and revenue components unfold within the social media landscape.

Sales and Marketing mix like oil and water and business understands sales (easy to see the dollars) better than marketing. If you have been in business for any length of time, it is hard to shake the "transaction" based mindset for judging sales success. On the social scene, you may need to go beyond just knowing your product and forge a little more to better understand how your brand strikes an emotional chord with your customer base. By building relationships over time, as in the article titled Modern Marketing by Maryjo Faith Morgan, you have the opportunity to connect your brand in more ways than just a "ring it up" old school transaction. Social Media replaces "Transactional" sales with "Relationship" based sales and the concept of Social Equity, goes far in describing How To Maximize Revenue Through Social Media . So, here are 5 ways to build a relationship that will get your customer to Connect, Collaborate, and Commit to a solution that provides value to all.

Steve Goldner wrote an outstanding article describing the social marketing funnel which accounts for the trust factor. Steve adds value to the funnel diagram (below) by identifying the audience type (“Group”) and reaction (“Individual State”) at each progression through the funnel. I am calling it a "Relationship Conversion" diagram because it provides insight beyond a traditional sales funnel.

When (a relationship is) earned, a Relationship Conversion occurs which allows you to build social equity and create a Value Added Revenue (VAR) stream.

Listen, Give, and Engage are the three buzzwords for small businesses and Entrepreneurs who want cut through the noise and generate some social media success. Tying this together is today's article from blogtalkradio.com on how social media can help small business market more efficiently and effectively. Laura Ries says, "A hot brand ends up in one of two different ways. It burns bright too fast and fizzles. Brands like this are known as fads. Or a brand burns hot then continues at a steady simmer. Brands like this are known as iconic." If you are building your U-brand, learn from the mistakes that brought Crocs -- the 850 million dollar, 20% profit margin shoe company -- into bankruptcy. Get the full article here.

Top down social media integration: Consumer Package Goods (CPG) are products typically purchased off the shelf at your local store. Although CPG companies have well established marketing channels for mass advertising, there's a want and need to create social relationships. What's great is that social media is being absorbed into the "marketing system" as a whole from the top. Just read the mindset from the CPG industry. Just keep in mind that in order to remain competitive in today’s social economy, Stop Selling and Add Value.

Read the daily posts for the week (November 16th - November 20th)

Recap Week of October 26, 2009

2009-01-01T07:59:00.000-08:00

Last weeks postings reflect just how much opportunity there is to employ social media marketing today and well into the future . The compounding, viral power of social media continues to demonstrate the potential and direction WE as consumers and marketers are willing to accept social marketing as a preferred medium. This weeks messages continue the theme of using core marketing strategies and social principles to best realize long term success. The marketing messages in recap are now catergorized into core categories of Strategy, Philosophy, Content, and Twitter. As an alternative, you may read the messages day by day, which contain brief highlights of the articles.

Strategy

Opportunity or Obstacle

Last week’s poll question: A recent survey indicated that 75
percent of small businesses are not using social media for marketing.
Could you solve these problems for a Small Business Owner?

Read Article By Mary Ellen Slayter

RELEVANCE!

Solve Problems Make $$$

Think RELEVANCE! That’s what your prospects are really interested in. What’s
relevant is BUSINESS, not your products, services or solutions. Your
offering is simply a tool that helps companies achieve their business
objectives.Decision makers are always
interested in ideas, insights and information that helps them eliminate
problems, address issues and achieve their objectives.

Plus 4 more Essential Strategies for Highly Effective Initial
Meetings

ReadArticle (must login @ zdnet to get *.pdf)

Marketing Mantra

Simple 3 step engagment to build a bigger customer base

Read Article

Fun

Making $$ can be fun -- Understand ROI fundamentals

OliverBlanchard’s Social Media ROI Presentation is a witty, fun introduction to ROI

ReadArticle

Philosophy

Success Barometer

Are You Having Fun? Success is not
the key to happiness, it (Happiness) is the key to success.

Read Article By pvesey

Support Simplicity

Fun - Solution Oriented - Social Media

ReadArticle By Jessica Want

Influential Thoughts

The simple fact that trust is relative
ReadArticle by Adam Singer

The Art of Science

Outstanding thoughts on Social Media philosophy and strategy

Read Article

Content

Content Strategy

If you don’t understand your audience
you’ll never create content which sticks. Once you do have audience
comprehension, take the time to think about how you can use this
knowledge to formulate a content strategy

Read Article by Adam Singer

Outstanding

Don’t focus on the social media tools. Focus on
developing the social skills you need for your business to create a strong social presence. (The blog, article, format, content,backlinks...all a great example of article writing)

Read Article by Cindy King -- good job!

Confusing

Communicating with customers/ prospects is now both easier and
yet more difficult!

Read Article by Making Life Ezy Market Research

Future

The World According to Google (well 2015 at least)

Read Article by Neville Hobson

Twitter

Twitter BEER, Social Media and Beer

Welcome to the "Direct to Drinker" engagement. The surge in corporate social
media efforts comes after decades of so-called "push" marketing --
where consumers were viewed largely as passive sponges of brand
marketing.

Read Article By HOLLIE SHAW

Why Twitter- in one word

I certainly would not have dreamed that only one person would say
“marketing” or “branding.” Especially since at least half the people in
my twitterville are in some form of marketing and PR. But maybe I
shouldn't be surprised since PR and marketing are -- at its roots --
about people. (? people are not looking to buy a product or service? )

Read Article by Victoria Harres

Strategy

Twitter - Entrpreneurship - Guy Kawasaki

ReadArticle by Rajiv Dingra

Strategy

Key Takeaways: Customers Impact Brand Search Results Using Twitter

Read Article by Charlene Li

Recap Week of December 21st, 2009

2009-01-01T07:46:00.000-08:00

Social Success in 2010
No longer a novelty, niche, or underground movement, social media marketing (SMM) becomes serious business in 2010. For small businesses... please pay specific attention to the list below because these are the puzzle pieces that will unlock the keys to success 2010 . This article by Sienna Farris is not just a must read but a strong need to understand what is rapidly becoming the new reality driven by a social economy. Think about it: customers check into a local area hotel or your clients are in town for one of our seasonal signature events and you (small business) are able to recognize who is in town, and offer special products and services tailored to their preferences. Smart phones will help create smart customers looking for small businesses that think smart.

1. SMM will finally transition from "nice to have" to "must have"
2. Location-based social networking is here to stay3. Experimental social media budgets are key4. The division between the virtual and the physical world will continue to blur5. Crowd sourcing will turn social media into a direct sales channel

No longer is the goal to just find your target market -- now it is to stay connected to them. Whatever you call yourself....a business, consumer, prospect, or advocate, the sought after commodity on social sites is your Attention. Think about what @ductape tweeted yesterday, "Social media is not so much a tool as it is a behavior.” It is estimated that anyone living approximately 30 years ago was exposed to up to 2,000 marketing messages each day. That has more than doubled with exposure to approximately 5,000 each day, and in some cases as many as 9,000 impressions on average." Here is a great article that explains why the future is now, and today "is the critical time for Entrepreneurs to pay close attention, to learn from the behavior and interaction that defines our markets as they develop and mature. Entrepreneurs must empower themselves to engage and CONNECT with both market influencers and customers, and be a valued part of the decision making process, thereby increasing the levels of success previously seen as unattainable through more costly traditional marketing".
Learning to move beyond the chatter in 2010. Laurie Burkitt from Forbes writes that more big business will figure out how to use social media sites as active sales channels ...moving beyond a place just for brand monitoring or consumer talk. Here are two great points Small Business can start preparing for:

• Marketers should keep their eyes on search giants and their growing partnerships with social media sites. As search and social media integrate, targeted advertising and retargeting will become more advanced.
• Geo-targeted marketing will be huge. Thanks to social networkers who check their profiles from their phones and to Google's acquisition of AdMob, marketers will be able to hone their promotions and coupons for more one-on-one targeting and addressable ads within social media.

Combine Social Smarts with Small Business
A must read! Jerome Pineau has written a power-packed article that reflects his trials, tribulations and success in the social media marketing arena. Note to Small Businesses: bookmark this article:

• What is "social media"? It is a set of web-based communication channels connecting a brand with existing and potential customers
• What's "success" in social media and community management. It's not something that can be pinned down easily like an engineering project where criteria are clearly defined...Managing a brand or product via social media channels is more akin to wine making or political campaigning. It's something that takes considerable time, involves a myriad of tools and tactics, and, quite honestly, more than a little bit of luck. And it also takes a special kind of personality

This is an "art" - and purposely so - because to the best of my knowledge, there are no clear well-defined best-practice recipes for success in this business and most companies tend to fly this bird by the seat of their pants. Some better than others. Yes, there are numerous self-proclaimed social media experts and consultants out there.
Word of Mouse
Here is a mashed-up blog on the issues of Word of ~~Mouth~~ Mouse marketing. Andy Sernovity talks about how to kill the word of mouth and gaspedal.com gives us 3 problems facing word of mouth marketers. Word of Mouse can be proverbial snowball rolling down the hill but if you get Lazy, Talk too much, or exchange $$$ for a good word, then you may cross your loyal community. Likewise, with word of mouse marketing, you should be able to answer this question: "What will the customer, client, prospect take away." For specific examples, look at these 3 scenarios at gaspedal.com:

1. The Matchbook problem - What will the customer take away?
2. The Chocolate problem - What if your product or service is the same as....
3. The Shiny object problem - Hey, This new system is guaranteed to...

I've seen this article posted in several spots today but not with this twist..... Do you know how much Ur competition is spending on social media in 2010? More money. Before you decide to see who has more $$$, think about this quote from Chris Brogan ..."It’s not enough to push the “buy local” mantra. It’s not enough to push “homemade” as the big push. You’ll find someone for every one of the reasons why you think they shouldn’t buy from Amazon or Walmart or whoever you consider to be the competition, but to my thinking, the real goal is to instill a powerful reason why someone should buy from you over anyone else." Here are some reasons: Trust, Expertise, Support, Specialization. Think in terms of 'Solving Problems' and you will be on the right track. Now take a look at the graph on the left and see what Ur competition is spending on social media next year.

Tweeple Bytes
I had an idea to start collecting the sound bites (“tweeple bytes”) of individual tweets that make a specific social media declaration. Sometimes there is added perspective and clarity by looking collectively at many tweets together. The new article is called Tweeple-Bytes and your comments are appreciated.

Recap Week of November 2nd, 2009

2009-01-01T07:43:00.000-08:00

Highlighted articles for this past week show the degree of influence social media has in the marketplace. Given the proper attitude, understanding and core mindset, social media marketing, joined with the use of the internet, is creating a dramatic shift in how your customer, client and company communicate. Developing a social media strategy and campaign requires the “social” factor as the strategic ingredient for transforming our marketplace to a more honest, transparent market – one in which consumers are gaining more influence. Socially speaking, it’s important to know that Dale Carnegie says, “When dealing with people, remember you are not dealing with creatures of logic, but creatures of emotion” and studies have shown that people buy based on emotion then back it up with logic. Read the daily posts for the week (November 2nd - November 6th)

Recap Week of Oct19 - Tweetable Marketing Message

2009-01-01T07:28:00.000-08:00

Our last weekly post seemed to sum up the major messages throughout the week. At the San Diego Social Media Symposium John Moore discussed the current Dynamics of Social Media relating to successful social marketing campaigns.
Like the majority of our daily messages, John spoke about how the Philosophy of Social Media Marketing is tied to the Strategy which ultimately provides a recipe of Success for any social marketing campaign.

Key Tweets (use #sdsms on twitter)

1 In order to grow as an organization and w/ customers, we must Listen, Learn & Respond
2 Recipe for social media success :1 part listening, 1 part learning, 1 part responding
3 Smartest way to use Twitter is to respond to people. Be a resource.
4 Social media is a great alternate channel for customer/constituent service
5 SM helps small companies look bigger and big companies get smaller
6 Be everywhere your customers are
7 Take care of details in your business. Customers notice everything
8 Make it a good one no broken window.
9 If you hide the truth someone will find the truth
10Online reviews are only 2nd to personal advice
11 Speaker claims that most word of mouth conversations are 90% offline

Philosophy:

TGIF 2 for 1 Social Media Marketing Philosophy

Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh

Gordon Magee
“At the end of the day, it’s the relationship that’s being developed so that you have a genuine desire as a company to provide customer satisfaction to the customer, and the customer trusts you enough to give you some money to have you send them a product through the mail.”
Read Full Article

Social

Come on in -- we were expecting you!
Want to start a successful Social Media campaign? Think about these 5 essentials
Read Full Article

Crossroads

Trust and Value meet Hi Tech and Hi Touch
Read Full Article

Fun Introducing the FUN theory

Put some Fun in your marketing, you just might make a few more $$
Read Full Article

Strategy:

Planning Forward 2010 Hybrid Offline - Online Campaingn

Benifits to consider
Ideas for action
Read Full Article

Problem Solver

All Products or Services must solve a specific problem
Read Full Article

Niche

Twitter marketing

Read Full Article

Influence Introducing the FUN theory

Perspectives on Twitter fromthe web's most experimental, influential and knowledgable
Read Full Article

Statistics:

Customer Expectations

Customer perception is reality
Read Full Article

Fasten your seat belt

we are going for a ride in 2010
Read Full Article

Recap Week of November 16th, 2009

2009-01-01T07:09:00.000-08:00

Recap Week of Oct12 - Tweetable Marketing Message

2009-01-01T05:32:00.000-08:00

Friday October 16

Fresh -while simplicity may not be very important to ReTweetability, novelty certainly is. When you hear "Re-Tweet" Think "Viral" and Viral Marketing is the difference maker "Viral marketing success comes from self-publishing Web content that people want to share. It’s not about gimmicks. It’s not about paying an agency to interrupt others. It’s about
harnessing word-of-mouse,the most empowering form of marketing there is. "- David Meerman Scott
Read Full Article

2for1 Happy TGIF FF to all Affiliate, Social, Network, Marketers

@PaulSchmittSr: Article Marketin g – Don’t sell yourself in your article, rather sell yourself by the quality of your content
@MasterMindCoach: “The greatest mistake marketers make is trying to create demand.” Eugene Schwartz #quote

KISS - Get "Social" and "Networking" will follow

KISS principle - Keep It Simple, Stupid? You probably learned about it in school. The premise is the simpler it is to take action - read an article, click a link, react to a social feed - the more likely a consumer will interact

Marketers need to being thinking of social as 'media' rather than 'networking'
Think about what viral means and what you can do with viral messages
Ceate a content platform

Read Full Article

Thursday October 15

Trust The Foundation of Social Success Begins with Trust
“Trust” must be present for a connection initiated in a social network to naturally migrate into a relationship with measurable business value.

Personally, I like to take ownership of the trust building process by making an investment of time and effort. I constantly identify opportunities to enhance the professional development and accomplishment of my portfolio of social media connections .
Read Full Article

Selling the Message - In the end U want your customer, client, prospect to take some Action that will benefit them and put $$ in your pocket. Win Win!

Capture Attention
Identify Problem
Describe Product/ Service
Promote Benefits (not just the features - this trips a lot of people)
Create Credibility
Promote Action

Read Full Article

Evidence Social Media Marketing Works

Social media (Twitter, Facebook, blogs) has become so ubiquitous that businesses are using it to fuel sales and profits through social interaction with customers and clients.

The companies using networks and blogs to stay closer to customers, for sales, marketing, customer support, recruiting, investor relations and product research. It is absolutely not a fad. (Shel Israel) These #s tell the story!
Read Full Article

Wednesday October 14

Opportunity Large Market for Small Business
“Our survey suggests that small business owners are still feeling their way into social media, particularly when it comes to using these tools to grow their businesses,” said Maria Veltre, Executive Vice President of Citi’s Small Business Segment. “While social media can provide additional channels to network and help grow a business, many small businesses may not have the manpower or the time required take advantage of them.” .
Read Full Article

Hearing vs. Listening Considerations for Social Marketing Success
Have you stopped to think about who is actually paying attention in social networks? A person or a brand may have X number of followers or friends, but how many of them are actively listening at any given time? How many people do you ACTUALLY reach when you post a tweet, make a status update or blog post? Subscriber counts and reach are two different things. Think of it like a college professor talking to students: How many of them are paying attention during a lecture? With social media participation it’s the same thing; you need to realize that not everyone is always hearing what you have to say and factor in the difference between connections and actual reach. Read the Full Article

Longterm Just Say NO to Fads and Overnight Marketing Schemes
After all, you can't always differentiate based on what you sell; but how you sell, who you are and what you do can make all the difference to prospects. Read all 6 proven strategies
Read Full Article

Tuesday October 13

Are you an InfoSupplier?
Consider Ways to incresase traffic and sales
Amazon gives loads of consumer information and feedback while selling
their products on the web.
Read Full Article

Transparency
Perhaps what we’re really striving for is the demonstration of
imperfection and a reasonable level of accessibility. The openness to a discussion instead of instilling gatekeepers and bulldogs at every turn. The willingness of business to show that not only do they not have all the answers all the time, but that their employees can relate to us on a level of individual need vs. an “entity-to-market” mindset.
Read Full Article

Monday October 12

Just pick up some good insight how big companies like Microsoft view
soical sites like Twitter
Efficient
"You can reach people pretty effectively when they've chosen to follow
you on things such as Twitter," Gary Troberman Microsoft

Belief
Microsoft's social-media marketing tenets: 1) authenticity, 2) honesty,
3) immediacy.
"Social media really has its own rules," Troberman said. "Done well,
it's not just pushing messages, it's listening. ... It's reminded us
that we need to listen more than shout."
Read Full Article

Identify your unique value
MLM Success Secret #1 “Wealth accumulates on the
Inside before it expresses itself on the outside.” David Cameron
Gikandi, Happy Pocketfull of Money
people either are selling or chasing a get rick quick schemes because
they have not identified their unique value.
Read Full Article

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