In a social network yet? Get on the bandwagon

If you are in a small business, social networks are an easy and affordable way of telling the world about yourself. The reach is wide and the networks are open to corporate messages, if written and timed well. Here are some things to notice.

» Be social
The key to remember is that social networks are social. So, avoid any marketing hardsell at the start. Just as you would warm up to people at a dinner function, allow your messages to "warm up" to the audience on the network.

» Be yourself
One reason why Facebook has gained so much traction is because a large proportion of users are "real people". Be prepared to share a little about yourself on these networks. Put up photos of yourself, family and friends. Add your personal friends to your online network. It puts a human face to a digital name.

» Be creative
Join interest groups relevant to your business on these networks. Participate. Offer free trials or other exclusive promotions to members of these groups. Find friends you have lost touch with. Start a chat going with them. They may know someone you could link up with for business. Recruit employees. Scour interest groups for potential employees. Announce job openings on your social network profile. Opportunities are aplenty - be creative about tapping into them.

» Be resourceful
Spend time exploring each network. Learn more about them before you start to engage members. Each network is different. Some offer you tools to organize events, while others allow you to create profiles of your company or to start your own company fan club. Not all of these will work for your business. Take a look at how others are using these tools before having a go at it yourself.

» Be adventurous
Do not be afraid to experiment and try different ways to market your business through social networks. As long as you abide by the society's rules - be professional and fair - and have a good product to begin with, people will start to take notice.

Try these for size

New to networking? Here are some websites to try:

» Facebook - http://www.facebook.com

» LinkedIn - http://www.linkedin.com

» Multiply - http://www.multiply.com

» MySpace - http://www.myspace.com




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Riih Rion is bashful when facing cameras and video-cams. But she soon realized she is more comfortable behind a PC screen than in front of a lens. Riih is passionate about beauty products, paranormal & folk lore from anywhere in the world and sushi. Especially sushi. Come visit her blogs or drop her a comment :D

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