1.) A Social Website
A call-to-action from any source drives customers to your website. Linking your social networking sites to your home or landing page, allows people to to be driven directly to the product/services you want them to see. Not only are you going to gain a higher volume of website traffic, but you will automatically be able to engage with your customers and discover a unique target audience.
2.) Create a Viral Component
Integrate your social media platforms into your traditional marketing mix. Develop a way for your audience to be involved by creating a contest, giveaway or promotion by using traditional advertising mediums and social media networks. For example: Chick-Fil-A promotes their notorious receipt day using outdoor and print advertising, however it became a viral component when they started utilizing Twitter as a micro-marketing tactic to spread the word across the internet.
3.) Socialize your Signature
This can be as simple as adding social buttons into your e-mail signature asking the recipient to follow you, like you and sign up for your RSS feeds. This is a two-way street so you must also put an app or button on your social media sites, asking people to sign up for your weekly e-newsletters. Many e-mail marketing programs offer you the ability to share e-blasts with your fans on Facebook or followers on Twitter. This way you can convert social followers into e-mail contacts.
4.) Blog, Blog, Blog
A company blog that is updated frequently can be an extremely useful marketing strategy. A successful company blog tells its audience useful information and gives insight on their products and services. This is an excellent resource for small businesses to stand out, show their credibility and share expert advice. A company blog is a great opportunity to enhance your SEO, create content for your Facebook page and find out what your audience is saying about you.
5.) Crisis Communication
A crisis has occurred and you need to reach your entire audience immediately. TV, radio and print media are not always the fastest strategy. This is where integrating social media becomes essential. Social networking sites, blogs, RSS feeds, mass text messages and e-blasts give you the potential to communicate relevant messages to a mass group of people in an instant. This also allows you to keep the lines of communication open and gives you the ability to respond honestly to concerned citizens/customers.
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