Jun
15
2010
Is Social Media Just Noise?
Author: Stuart R. CrawfordI was reading a very interesting online article from my very good friend in New York state this morning. Joe Panettieri is a trusted colleague, friend and someone I take my guidance from when it comes to blog writing, social media and online marketing. Joe runs a few very successful blogs focused on the IT services industry where he shares news, trends, observations and a number of other creative topics focused in the vibrant information services world. Joe has carved out a niche.
In one of his recent blog posts, Joe asks the question “Small Business Social Media: A Noisy Waste of Time?”
This got me thinking in the very early hours about my most recent 24 hours and how my online social media has worked. In the past 24 hours I was interviewed by “The Canadian Employer” magazine on social media in Canada plus Ulistic is very fortunate to be working with another successful REALTOR in Calgary.
What does this tell me?
When used effectively, respectfully and with purpose…social media can help position your business and generate a buzz about what you do in your market. However, for some “Social Media” is just a noisy waste of time. ReTweet this, post this, share that…with no intent or purpose…just adds to the noise.
Here are some things I attempt to do each day that ensures my investment in social media does end up as just noise out there:
- Focus on a niche - Just like my buddy Joe has found success in a particular industry so can you. You must pick a niche and excel in that niche. Sorry folks, being spread out across multiple platforms doesn’t work and for those who say “small business” is my niche. Sorry to disappoint you, but that is just to broad of a focus. What business models do you know? What industries can you learn? Where can you excel?
- Master that market – Once you pick your niche…master it. Learn everything you can. How is business done? How are the movers and shakers in that industry. What are the terminologies used? Where do you see gaps and how can you fill them? (When I started in the IT industry I focused on oil and gas. I made getting to know what everyone does in a company crucial to knowing the industry…so should you).
- Continue to learn – Never stop learning or never stop sharpening your saw. Attend their industry trade shows. Participate at their local events. Attend their courses. You must never stop continuing to learn.
- Post intelligence - Don’t post noise (hey, learn from me). Post relevant observations on what is happening in that market, not just various statements and useless junk. If you have nothing to say…don’t retweet just to be heard.
Focusing on quality information and post/sharing with purpose will stop you from adding to the noise. Know your audience and how you can help or assist them. Seek the advice of an expert to help get you started in the right direction.
Here is a quick acronym to help you with your blog posts, tweets and anything you do online:
S – share
W – with
I – intent
P – purpose and
E – excellence
Can you SWIPE?
Ulistic focuses on working with Technology firms (small business computer consultants and managed services providers) plus real estate agents, REALTORS and those in the Real Estate business (mortgage brokers, agents etc). We do work with general small business however we know that our marketing needs to focused on our niche markets as well.
Once you get this and you focus on SWIPE….your social media will raise above the noise.
If your IT services firm, real estate brokerage requires help with online marketing, social media or simply getting you found online…give me a call today at 403.775.2205…cheers Stuart.
