“Small Business Guide to Social Media”

Available from SAGE for download. Go to: Sage Social Media Guide

With the explosion of Social Media usage, THIS IS A MUST READ!

Spreading the word with social media.

The rise of social media has been so rapid that it’s easy to feel left behind. And it’s not just a personal scene anymore – many businesses are using sites such as LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook to attract followers and fans.

If you run your own business, social media offers you the chance to spread the word about what you do. It enables you to build a reputation, forge new relationships and bring in new business.

But if you haven’t taken the plunge yet, you’re not alone. According to research by specialist SME insurer Hiscox (2012), only 57% of small businesses currently use social media to support their marketing efforts.

Just listen at first and then gradually start responding and striking up conversations. Spreading the word with social media And research by The Neilsen Company has found that 53% of adults who engage in social networks are active followers of a brand.

“It’s never too late to start. You definitely haven’t missed the boat,” says Alex Truby, consultant at social media consultancy Fresh Networks. “There are exciting opportunities for most businesses on social media.”

• Provided by Sage Software.
• Presented by Jim Schuett, Sage 100 Contractor Custom Report Writer