What would you say is the single most powerful marketing channel for your business in the 21st century? Which tactic carries more credibility, delivers higher ROI and the ultimate in efficiency? Here’s a hint … it’s not Internet or mobile advertising, and it doesn’t cost a thing.
Get On the Networking and Referrals Bandwagon
Everyone knows that networking and referrals have always been key to achieving marketing success. But generating a stable of referrals doesn’t generate a lot of buzz these days, so most of us don’t give these efforts the love they deserve. Interestingly enough, you are probably spending more time networking than you think. Think “Social Media,” and you are on the right track.
Sure, we’ve all been involved in the morning coffee-networking event at some point in the past, but Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook are how we are all building awareness of your company beyond your physical location today. You can communicate one-to-one with your following and build relationships with them. You are no longer a company; you become their friend, and that is key because people enjoy doing business with someone they know, trust and like.
The upkeep of social media accounts can be very time intensive, especially at the beginning, but it is technologically not very complex. So, as you get accustomed to the platforms and get it into your daily routine, it is a very efficient use of your time.
Finally, you can use social media not only to promote your own business, but as a platform to find vendors, employees and business partners. Many sites such as LinkedIn allow people and companies to post referrals or references - the newest form of word-of-mouth marketing.
So, here’s the not-so-hidden objective of this article: We want to hear from you. If you’re happy working with Envoy, let us and our network know. You can find us on LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/company/envoy-inc. As always, we’d appreciate a recommendation.
Need help figuring out social media and all it can do for you and your company? Please give me a call – we have helped many clients with all levels of social marketing from getting their accounts set up, to planning a yearly strategy, to daily maintenance. We are here to help and can tailor a plan to meet your needs.
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