As per the request of one of the BMGChat members, this week’s discussion was on “Tips for Setting Up an Online Business/Presence/Blog.” This topic is….huge. It’s hugely important, but it also encompasses such a broad spectrum of information. So here’s what we discussed. Keep in mind it’s just a small portion of what there is to be explored in the territory of establishing a successful web presence!
1. Be Human:
Setting up an online web presence (successfully) for a new business or professional endeavor can be daunting. Here’s a few basic tips on how to get a good start:
Be Human: You are setting up an online presence because….you’re a PERSON who has a something to offer. People do no want to interact with purely robotic websites that have zero personality or human flair. So keep it real!
2. Add Value:
Connect people you think could benefit from one another. Share cool links or relevant industry news. Take a stand on current issues, offer your opinion. You will attract a strong core group of followers this way.
3. It’s Not About You:
Acting like the coolest kid on the block will get you nowhere. Share others successes. Help promote your connection’s endeavors. “Use social media networks to engage your customers in ways that make them feel like the most important people on the planet.” If you show that you’ve got everyone else’s backs, it will create a very loyal following, and people will do the same bragging for you!
4. Engage and Interact:
Stay in touch! The point of an online presence is to introduce and foster real-life business relationships. Strike up conversations. Repost comments. Get to know those your new online connections.
5. Participate Consistently:
We’ve said it a million times, but consistency really is key when it comes to social media. The more consistent you are (in frequency and content), the easier it will be for people to become familiar with and in turn trust your brand. “Participating consistently builds a stronger online reputation for your company and boosts your presence within social media circles.”
6. Don’t Sweat the Numbers:
The most important thing to do is to focus on the content you are producing. If establishing an online presence could happen over night with little effort, every business would have an amazing website, blog, and social media platforms. But the truth is that it takes time, consistency, and great content. If you work hard and keep this in mind, the numbers will come.
7. It’s a Small World:
Let’s suffice it to say…you must be professional, always. “Not to mention the fact that Google’s spiders will idex that ONE moment of rudeness and, with your luck, it will probably be on the first page of results from a Google search of your name.” I don’t care how offended, annoyed, or angered you are by someone’s comment or posting. Be nice. Be professional. Period.
8. Experiment:
Mix it up! Alternate times of the day that you post blogs, comments, or Twitter updates. Then, study your work: Which times of the day do you get the most traffic? What topics are hot? Take the results and formulate your content strategy around them for the best results!
This week’s chat was based on an article written by David Mullen. If you want to learn more about Public Relations, Integrated Communications and Social Media, head on over to his blog and check it out–he’s got some great content! http://www.davidwmullen.com/
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