Oh yes.  That scary world of social media.  How do I do it?  Seems like free advertising.... hmmm.  I can just set it up and let it go, right?

There really are no questions about social media that you have not already answered sometime in your career.  Social media is just an online version of what any successful business operator or salesperson has done for years.

Think about what you may have done with the Lions Club, Optimist Club, Boys and Girls Club, your church, your networking meetings or even your company picnics and parties.  Interact for the benefit of those around you and your community.

Most of us know that being involved with our various civic, social or other organizations was not about selling or promoting, it is about what you could do to advance the aims of the body.  If your idea of fund-raising was to sell more product for your company you were likely to fail.  However if it was about the benefit for the community, people were attracted to you because of you efforts.  Then once those people you are associated with have a need or want that aligns with your business aims.... You most likely have a new customer.  You have credibility.

There are tens of thousands of social media platforms out there.  More coming every day.  Facebook and twitter may be the most visible, however, platforms that represent your client base are much more effective and where the numbers are.  Once you become active in a social media site try to remember these little things:

• Do Not make a direct sales pitch.  Offer content that is relevent to the group. 
• Invite interaction.  Much like an open-ended question,  you don't want a yes or no.
• Be fun and creative.  Political posturing or off-color humor won't be appreciated.
• When unsuccessful in a live presentation, make sure to invite the prospect to join your site.
• When you do close a deal, asking the client to join will encourage repeat business.
• When needing more employees or services, make sure you post that on your pages as well.

Remember the larger the appeal of the information you post, the faster your "fan", "friend" or data base will grow.  When you look at it this way, You have known it all along.   If you would like more information about how you can Expose, Acquire and Engage your market base, visit my Web Site and click the contact button.  I will personally call. 

Good Luck and Great Selling.

C W Darling