Business Buzz: Successfully harness social media power

PHUKET: There is no doubting the power of social media marketing as a business tool. The question is, are you using it, and if so, are you doing so effectively?

Social media can be very overwhelming as there are so many options it can be difficult to know where to start. It can also be a case of ‘you don’t know what you don’t know’, so you need to do some quick research and planning before you get started.

The best way to get started is by keeping it simple.

Think about what it is you are trying to achieve and focus on one goal at a time to get one result.

To get started, decide what it is you are trying to achieve. Break it down into its simplest form. Maybe it is more likes on your Facebook page, more visits to your website, more people in your database, more people connecting with you or getting your picture or brand in front of more people.

The choices can be quite abundant, so just choose the main purpose. Then you need to consider which social media platform would suit your purpose best.

For some options it may involve multiple platforms that would complement each other well. For example, video would normally be matched with YouTube, but complements well with Facebook, Twitter, Blogging or Pinterest. Pictures go well on Pinterest or Instagram, and also Facebook. It is worth doing a little bit of research to find out what you don’t know. Remember, Google is your friend and can provide information on any topic or question you may have.

Then you need to decide on a budget. The great benefit of social media is that it can be free, or increased to any budget you want. Those with limited budgets and new companies with limited cash flows can still get good results, it just may take more time.

Now, knowing the answer to the aforementioned questions, you need to prepare a strategy.

I have found one of the best ways to do this is by drawing a flow chart or mind map. Create the flows that show each step of interaction, possible outcomes and options. You will then have a much better understanding of what you want to happen, how it should happen and can then monitor the progress and success of your project.

Next week, we will discuss the simple steps to plan your strategy to get the best results possible.

Simon Wetherell is a social media expert, lawyer, best selling author and international speaker. He now resides in Phuket where he conducts business seminars and trains individuals on how to profit from the use of social media. For more information go to PhuketOnline Marketing.com or call 095-085 3355.