How to make Social Media Marketing Effective for Small Businesses

One of the hardest parts of social media marketing is not just acquiring users, it is retaining them.  As of 2013, 72% of adults who are the internet are using social networking sights according to Pew Research Center. In fact, MBA reports that 8 of 10 social media users in the U.S. would rather reach out to companies via social media than through company sites.

Most companies, especially small business owners, are beinging to understand that they need to use the social media marekting channel and cannot afford to ignore its effects. 

One of the most important things that social media for businesses needs to do is not only share content but engage users with follow-up and real conversations.  Businesses also need to make sure that they are providing useful content to their users. "In fact, some of the best social media stories are local businesses that help customers they could never actually serve".

To increase the value of content, they also need to provide 80% information that aligns to their customers interest, and spend the other 20% talking about themselves. For example, a cosmetics company can give tips and tricks about how to apply makeup and how to create different looks.

Businesses also need to respond to comments in order to make sure they engage users and make them feel special and as if they are being heard.  Taking these steps will help ensure useful social media marketing. 

For more reading, http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/10/23/social-media-marketing-small-business-amex-open_n_3941926.html