The Conquest for the Socal Media World: Part I

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Dominating the social media world in order to market your business can present itself as a daunting task. To make it easier, we will break down the challenge channel by channel. Up today are Google+, Facebook, and Twitter. For each, we will cover some tips and tricks to getting your business up and ready to tackle social media.

 Google+

In previous posts, I have already touched on some of the wonders a Google account can provide for your business, so here are eight tips for making your Google presence stronger:

1. Perfect your Google Plus profile
Take the time to ensure that all of your information is correct and appears professional.

2. Share Great Content & Optimize Your Posts
As always, content is king.

3. Update your viral posts
This is a feature unique to Google+. Take advantage of it!

4. Get Involved and Be Useful
Grow closer to and connect with your community. This can be achieved in a number of ways. Be creative!

5. Engage! Be awesome
Follow other people, and make comments. Don't be static.

6. Connect with influential members
Using Google+ Ripples is a great tool for this.

7. Join the fun
Join a circle, hangouts, or wish someone a happy birthday!

8. Add Google+ Badge to your Site
Let your website visitors know you are on Google+ and encourage them to follow you!
(Source: How-to: Build A Strong Google Plus Presence And Get More Followers)

Facebook

For some people, Facebook is the first thing they look at after turning off their alarm in the morning, or the last thing they see before they set it at night. Using your business' page effectively can help you spread the word about your business and connect with your customers. Here are six tips from the pros:

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#1: Use ActionSprout for Email Acquisition
This is a great tool to keep you in the news feed of your followers, instead of hoping that they stumble onto your page.

#2: Boost a New Product Announcement
Some experts advise against this, but it can still be a great option for small businesses.

#3: Use Website Custom Audiences
This helps target users that have already visited your website when they get back on Facebook.


#4: Power Up Your PR Efforts
Where better a place to build the face of your company in the face of your customers and the world?

#5: Use Audience Insights
This tool helps you gauge how your viewers are interacting with you on Facebook, and what works and what does not.

#6: Split Test Facebook Ads
Determine how well your individual ads are working to increase your advertising efficiency.
(Source: Six Facebook Marketing Tips From the Pros)

Twitter

Twitter has become the go-to channel for individuals to tell the whole world what you ate for breakfast. For businesses, however, you don't need to go outside of your local area. Here are three easy tips to find local customers on twitter:

#1: Add Location Data to Your Tweets
These are off by default, but are a great way to get your customers to your door. Let them know exactly where you are, and the potential customers in your area will come to you!

#2: Find Leads With a Local Hashtag Search
Capitalize on the hashtags that are popular in your area to bring attention to your business. If there is a popular hashtag for your city, an ongoing festival, or big event, use it!

#3: Target Customers With Promoted Trends
A solution for businesses with a larger budget, this involves paying to have a trend listed among the trending topics of the day. These are tailored for the individual users who see them based on their location and the pages they follow.
(Source: How to Find Local Customers With Twitter)