7. What do you offer to a small business owner? Why should a business hire your company instead of going it alone?
I help business owners understand how to use social media as one way to get their marketing messages across. I train business owners on how to use social media effectively. Some get the training and go on to use social media by themselves. Others hire me to write and post content. Small companies who don’t understand how to use social media for marketing and customer engagement could benefit from a company like mine. Additionally, small businesses that do not want to hire an employee but still want to engage in social media could also benefit from hiring a social media agency.
8. What is the most overlooked social media tool?
I believe it’s LinkedIn. LinkedIn is great for B2B businesses. Many people think LinkedIn is just for job seekers, but it’s so much more. Through LinkedIn groups, you can let people get to know you as a trusted expert. This can turn into sales and networking opportunities.
9. What tools do you use, to monitor your social networks?
I use HootSuite to manage messages and audiences on Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites. I use Google Alerts to help me manage my client’s reputation analysis. One of the most important aspects of social media is learning what others are saying about your business. I create alerts through Google and read them to determine positive and negative feedback. This also allows companies the opportunity to address any issues that could be brewing on social networks.
10. What risks are involved with a company using social media to interact with clients?
When you talk to customers on an open forum, you risk them airing their discontent for the world to see. Before starting social media, companies should think about their comment strategy. Plan in advance for the disgruntled customers: what can you do to move the conversation off line? This will help you when the situation comes up.
Just a note: While this is a risk, I find very few negative comments about companies in my experience as a social media marketer. Companies should still plan for it to happen, but don’t let it stop you from engaging in social media. It’s a risk worth taking.
How can you be contacted? At my Web site: www.hounddogsocialmedia.com, on Twitter: @HoundDogSM and on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HoundDogSocialMedia.
