Social Media Expert or snake oil salesman?

image courtesy of Hugh MacLeod

It seems like everyday we’re introduced to at least a half dozen new “Social media experts” who will gladly assist your business with Twitter, Facebook, Blogging and whatever else is popular that day. With unemployment so high right now, a lot of would-be entrepreneurs are diving into social media, simply thinking that just by knowing how to use the tools, they’re capable of overseeing a brand’s image online.

This new sentiment is scary to say the least.

What a lot of businesses fail to understand is the true power of social media and where it is going. Yes kids, social media is the future, and I’ve got news for you, the future has arrived.

There are a few key questions to ask yourself when hiring a self-proclaimed “Social media expert.”

1. Would I hire this person to create and build my brand?

2. Would I put this person in charge of my customer service ?

3. Would I put this person in charge of my advertising campaign?

If you cannot give a solid yes nod to any of these questions, then you might want to think twice.  Social media is about interaction with your customers, future customers, partners and associates. It is about building trust and solid relationships. Social Media is about communication on the most fundamental levels.  These people will all form an opinion about you and your business based upon that social media experience.  Is this something you really want to put in the hands of someone who just knows how to post some pictures, play Farmville and re-tweet a motivational quote?

No matter what you hear, Social Media is marketing, customer service and relationship building all wrapped up in one. When someone walks in for a meeting about building your new blog or managing your tweets, remember, they are the face of your business on the fastest growing form of communication ever. Proceed with caution.

Is a Blog Right For Your Business?

Many people will tell you a blog is an absolute MUST for your business’ marketing strategy, and in many cases they are correct. A blog is one of the best ways to achieve important business and marketing goals such as:
- Create customer conversation
-Counter negative publicity
- Promote new products or services
-Offer valuable advice to potential and current customers
- Generate increased website traffic
- Provide better customer service
- “Humanize” your company
- Increase your search engine optimization
- Create a “community” surrounding your business or product
…the benefits go on!

However, starting a blog is not a decision to be taken lightly. Sometimes not having one is better than starting one and not taking it seriously.
If your company is debating whether or not to start a blog, here are a few questions to ask yourself first.

1) Are you in it for the long haul?
A blog isn’t something you start then let sit. It will need constant updating (most recommend at least once a week). Constantly coming up with ideas about what to post may become tiresome after a while, therefore it is important to be willing to take the time to seek out ideas and thoughts to keep your blog fresh.

2) Do you have a narrowed-down topic?
You should be able to explain your blog in a short sentence. There are many blogs out there and each one is competing for readership from a certain target demographic. Without a solid topic, your blog will not reach your desired success and get lost in a sea of clutter.

3) Are you qualified to write about the topic?
People will be reading your blog and looking to you as a credible source for your information.

4) Can you write enthusiastically about your topic?
Blogs are conversational and your personality is bound to come through in your writing. Would you be excited to have a conversation with someone about your blog topic? If not, it may not be for you.

5) Can you accept criticism?
Blogs allow others the opportunity to comment on what you have written. Those comments will sometimes differ with your own opinions and it is important to openly accept that without going crazy.

If you answered yes to these questions, I highly suggest you take a look at starting a blog! Information and tools are readily available to help you along the way! Happy blogging!