Always Be Responding: The Best Practices In Social Media Marketing Writing Project

Mitch Joel over at the Six Pixels of Separation – The Twist Image Blog has started a writing project, to try and compile some (or all) of the Best Practices for using Social Media Marketing. Great idea, as so many people struggle with where to start.

His best practice was on Consistency. A great reminder that using the same user name, picture, etc. helps make you recognizable on all your sites. Pick the sites that work for your market and network on them regularly. Be consistent in your blog postings, podcastings, etc.

Here’s my Best Practice for Social Media Marketing – Always Be Responding!

Remember that this is Social Media Marketing. Be involved in conversations related to your business, your industry, yourself. When someone mentions you, respond back. Get involved in industry discussions, business debates (but be nice!), and connect personally as well. I think one of the best things about social marketing is the ability to get to know your network beyond their “business” persona. I’ve connected with several clients because something about me (or something about them) struck a chord, and helped us stand out among the crowd.

Many networking sites will let you know in advance of your friends’ birthdays. Drop by and wish them a Happy Birthday – they’ll remember it! Someone twitters about a personal issue they’re dealing with – respond with sympathies or advice. A blogger writes a great post with lots of helpful info – respond with a comment, or a trackback from your own blog.

This may sound simple, but it’s the basis of effective social media marketing, and without it, you surely will not find success.

Now it’s your turn! I’d love to hear your best practice, and I’ll tag some folks whose opinion I’d love to hear – Lou Bortone, MaryPat Kavanagh, and Mari Smith.

[tags]social media marketing best practices project, Rebecca Zwar, social marketing virtual assistant, Mari Smith, Lou Bortone, MaryPat Kavanagh, Mitch Joel[/tags]