Social Networking Pros & Cons for Business
Emerging new media such as social networking can provide free promotional tools to businesses and connect them with customers. While there is value to utilizing social websites, such as Twitter and Facebook, businesses must be cognizant of how to properly harness these methods so as to not damage their reputation.
Other People Are Reading
-
Connecting With Customers
-
Social networking profiles allow businesses to reach customers on an individual level and address their inquiries or requests. While this can be a resourceful way to glean information on a customer's buying habits or test the waters for a new product or service, be aware that customers can also use social networking platforms to air grievances on past experiences. It may require addressing specific concerns in an online forum should a customer use this approach.
Development and Maintenance
-
In order to provide the proper web presence, social networking tools must be developed in a manner that conveys the businesses' message while being current and engaging. For instance, a Facebook Fan Page can provide a useful way to share information on store hours, website address and new products or services but is meaningless if the content is not regularly maintained with current information. Consider hiring an intern or putting a marketing employee in charge of content management.
-
Branding
-
Launching a series of social networking profiles can help to strengthen business branding efforts by reinforcing the company's logo, slogan and message. Integrating social networking capabilities into existing websites can assist in cross-promotional efforts. For instance, Twitter feeds with up-to-the-minute posts can be displayed on a business' website or blog along with Facebook login capabilities. While having multiple social networking profiles can be useful as a branding tool, it will require regular maintenance down the road.
Search Engine Optimization
-
Creating routine quality content that is rich with search engine optimized keywords pertaining to your business and its services can prove worthwhile and assist in moving you up the search engine rankings. This can give you an advantageous position ahead of competing companies who are not harnessing social networking websites. Due to the fluctuating popularity of social media, it is important to diversify your content across several platforms, as well as independently maintain a blog and website.
-
