5 Steps to Using Social Media Effectively for Marketing

Face it. Social media is the new big thing. Whether we like it or not, we are a part of the population that is growing increasingly tech-savvy. In fact, the term "digital natives" refers to people born during or after the 1960s, which was the beginning of a Digital Age.

After attending Splash Media's boot camp by Paul Slack, we realized the significance of correctly and effectively utilizing this super handy tool.

Here are five important points from the boot camp:

1. The 90-10 Rule. This was the most memorable thing we learned, and it will definitely be something we will keep in mind as we manage the blog and whenever we tweet. The rule is this: 90% of all post should be non-commercial and beneficial just because for the people, while the remaining 10% could and should be self-promotion through special deals and other offers. 100% either type would be detrimental, but 90-10 is the perfect ratio.


2. Do your research. Don't be the potentially-marvelous business who jumps into the social media world without observing and forming a strategy first. While you probably should write a blog post several times a month or tweet several times a week, don't do it just to meet the quantity requirement. Take the time to compose quality posts that represent your business well. Sometimes, if you do your research thoroughly enough, you can catch other people's posts and plant a well thought-out comment that invites the audience to find out more.


3. Establish your territory. We only really learned today just how important a blog is. It is not simply a place for you to ramble, but it is the face of the business. Posts on Facebook and Twitter and Linkedin should ultimately all just point to the blog. The blog is yours; you are in control. Blog posts also last forever since search engines find them just like any other website.


4. Emulate nigahiga. If you are not yet aware, Ryan Higa, under the username nigahiga, is one of the earlier YouTube stars. The point? People would rather watch TV online than read books online. YouTube is the second largest search engine, so use it. What's holding you back?


5. Ask open-ended questions. Why? Simple: keep the conversation going. The more you say, the more others will see, especially on twitter. As a side note, learn how to use twitter--apparently tagging people in different parts of a tweet can change who sees the conversation.

We will definitely be using these tips and hope you find them helpful, too! Got other tips for newcomers to the social media front? What do YOU think?