Most small business owners know that social media can help their business. Unfortunately, the world of social media comes across as so complex, ambiguous and wide-reaching (not to mention dorky), that either actions are never taken or the wrong moves are made.
So, before you start a blog or build a page on Facebook, take a look at these resources to get familiar with the landscape.
1. Common Craft's "In Plain English" Videos
These three minute videos are perfect for demystifying those terms that you've never fully understood. RSS, Social Bookmarking, Wikis and more are all covered to perfection.
Hands-down the best book on social media ever written. This book will open your eyes to the vast potential of social media for businesses through great case-studies and a no-nonsense writing style.
3. Dell's Social Media for Small Business Facebook Page
In my opinion, Dell is utilizing social media more effectively than any brand out there. They've created a nice resource for small business owners who want to use social media. They do a great job keeping the site up to date with new videos, articles and tutorials.
4. Let's Talk: Social Media For Small Business e-book by Josh Jantsch
A nice, free resource for anyone looking for practical advice on how to utilize the following: blogging, RSS, social search, social bookmarking, social networks and microblogging.
5. LinkedIn Answers
LinkedIn Answers is a question and answer destination similar to Yahoo Answers, but with a focus on business. If you want a thorough answer to a social media question within 24 hours, this is the place to go.
These resources will give you solid understanding of the world of social media, but figuring out where to start is still a difficult step to take. Every business requires a unique approach to social media. My suggestion is to spend some time looking at success stories in your industry and talking with a digital marketing professional before taking action.
Jesse Pickard
http://www.jessepickard.com
http://twitter.com/
Comments