ENROLL TODAY—“Social media,” “web 2.0” and “online networking”

“Social media,” “web 2.0” and “online networking” are buzz words that crop up in newspapers, online and in conversation every day. This new technology is undeniably ubiquitous and there is a lot of hype surrounding it right now, but what does it actually mean for your business? At Unleaded Software we can help you devise an effective strategy tailored to you. We recognize not every business needs a facebook page and we know what translates well to Twitter. We keep up on al the latest social media techniques and strategies combined with Internet user statistics so we know what works. A lot of businesses make the mistake of plastering social accounts all over the web and widgets to these sites on their web pages before they have a grasp of how they can work for them. Understanding the technology is a prerequisite of employing it effectively.

The keys to social media are choosing the appropriate avenues, updating frequently, monitoring conversation, being responsive and generating interest. Social networking is the same as networking in person in that you want to engage in conversations, be interesting and be careful not to come across as a hard sell. Even though PR professionals are now logging in instead of clicking across cocktail parties in stilettos, personal skills are still imperative. If you are used to the personal party-style interaction of yester-decade there are certain rules of social conduct to adapt to. Instead of learning which utensil is intended for the crème brule, you must find out how to appropriate keywords in your Twitter bio. Yes, we’re strategists and etiquette coaches.

The slogan for one up-and-coming social site where you respond to others instantly is, “Didn’t you used to have a blog?” and it is spot on because as internet fads come and go, some people tend to fall behind on updating information. A Twitter account that hasn’t been updated in days or a blog with the last post in 2008, discounts the information you provide. Any social account you have is a commitment and should be maintained until the day you deactivate.

The Internet is all about universally conversing with others. People have a forum to share what they like and what they don’t, and if it’s about your business, you need to know what is being said. There are internet tools to help track it, the one we most recommend is the free and user-friendly Google Alerts. You should also keep up on Yelp!, Google Maps and other industry-specific sites like Dogster, Sermo or Snooth.

Social media is also an outlet for customer service. Take it from Comcast, you can answer questions and complaints and do damage control in 140 characters or less on Twitter.

This brings us to the most important part: popularity. The entire social equation will not work without friends, followers or fans. The more quality, sincerely interested parties see your updates, the more effective your campaign will be. This is where contacts become clients. We can help you find your audience on the World Wide Web.

We have examples and insight to offer you and we’d like to find out how we can help your business. Call 720- 221-7126 for a consultation. In the meantime, follow us on Twitter at WatchBoOm and UseOctane