False: Social Media Marketing is easy.
The Truth: One cannot simply create an account, post a few content-heavy, sales-oriented messages and expect the entire WorldWideWeb to come barging through your doors. It takes planning, imagination, some technological skills…and of course, time and effort!
False: Social Media Marketing is simply advertising.
The Truth: You cannot bludgeon sophisticated readers with relentless advertising. Sure, you need sales leads and you can certainly obtain them through these venues. However, you will attract more business here by building a community of like-minded people whose needs you understand. Establishing your business as a trusted resource for them will help you succeed effectively in the long-term picture.
False: The more posts, the more business.
The Truth: Social Media Marketing, especially in a forum like Facebook, is designed for people to socialize-to share activities, life events and to have fun with each other. If all one is doing is pounding a sales message, then the amazing potential of this audience will be directed elsewhere. Sure, it’s important to convey your message, but have some discretion. Balance is key here. Mix it up, show your readers that doing business with you will be an enjoyable experience.
False: Add Social Media Marketing, get immediate results.
The Truth: It takes time to grow a community. It’s only after a few weeks or months of dedicated, focused effort, that you might see the first fruits of your commitment. Remember, Social Media Marketing is a big picture phenomenon. Yes, there are exceptions. Perhaps your blogs will go instantly viral. Don’t plan on it though, no more than you would plan on buying the winning Powerball ticket. Patience and commitment are essential.
False: Quantity of Followers Equals More Revenue.
The Truth: Just like an individual may have over 1500 Facebook friends and still stay home on Saturday night, a business can have a large number of Fans, but still not engage them on a meaningful level. It’s important to remember that this is a social platform, that it requires communication and that communication isn’t a one-way street. Your engagement level is a very important statistic that should be prominent in your metrics reportage.
We hope this summary helps you in your thinking about Social Media Marketing. DBC Digital invites comments about your thoughts and experiences with Social Media Marketing. What works for you? What doesn’t? Please keep us informed by letting us know!
