Social media
Social Media (or social networks) are fun, free ways to build relationships online. They’re also an efficient way to drive traffic to your website. Blogs, Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn are just a few examples of social media that businesses and not-for-profits can use to interact with and build trust between people and communities. Social networking is also a great way to gather information about people, their interests, their companies and their personalities, in an informal, friendly way.
Make friends, drive traffic to your website, level the playing field
Social media allow you to make connections and build bonds with different user groups than do traditional media channels. They’re inexpensive (generally free), but extremely effective in bringing visitors to your website, garnering feedback or simply giving a face and personality to your organization. Social media facilitate conversation and level the playing field so that even your smallest clients, donors and friends feel valued and heard.
Do social media right: keep it real
The number one thing to keep in mind when social networking is to be genuine. Even if your ultimate goal is self-promotion, unless you participate in conversations and treat your online community as you would your real-life friends, your efforts won’t be successful.
Be positive, warm and open, while respecting the boundaries and nature of your organization. Share your own content (tweet your headlines, post teasers, etc.), but be sure to share other valuable content as well. Tell your online friends about other sites, businesses and products you like, and comment regularly on the content they share as well.
Always respond when someone “talks” to you. Never leave a comment unanswered. But don’t overdo it! Over-using social media is called “being loud.” Just as you wouldn’t want to talk too much in a social situation, don’t talk too much in a social networking situation.
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