Top social media folks, facebookers and tweeters don’t spend much time engaging. They spend their time finding, curating, and tweeting great links.   It’s other folks who comment on their posts, and RT their tweets that gives them social clout (or Klout). Some comments, like reviews hold the most value.

Relationships are the lifeblood of social media.

People matter. Relationships first. Your business is sustained by relationships. These relationships, those between customers and company, employee and employer, volunteer and organization, and members collectively, form a community. Creating, maintaining and growing your relationships and your community, will help increase bottom-line growth.  In other words, relationships are your lifeblood and as Sherrie Rose says, “The Real Currency is Relationship Riches.”

Implement simple and proven solutions.

The Olympics have just started and with the anthem cry: “Citius, Altius, Fortius ” which is Latin for “Faster, Higher, Stronger.”  Unless you are planning to go for the gold, stay off the bleeding edge of internet marketing technology. There is always something bigger, better, faster and stronger. Stick with the tried and true and stay away from the newest fads.  Let the companies with deep pockets test it out first. 

Social media marketing success doesn’t just happen (not even for Justin Bieber).

There is no such thing as overnight success through social media and internet marketing.  You must use lead generation tactics to attract new customers and nurture your existing customer community. Pay attention to your strategies, tactics, and technologies that you implement to be successful. Successful social media marketing requires a commitment over the long-term, taking a step by step approach.

Authenticity is a key to successful marketing online.

Everything you do to market your brand needs to be true to your core values and vision. Your marketing needs to be honest and done with integrity. Employ strategies, tactics and technologies that reflect who you are, what you do, and how you distinguish yourself from the competition. If you have a great story to share, perhaps choose a webinar as your medium to share it. More people need to hear about you and learn about you.

Social Media Relationships, Reputation, Fan Reviews

Not all social media can be tied to a direct return on investment. Reviews, especially 5 Star Reviews, make a big difference in ROI and in the perception of a person or company.  Nick Unsworth has focused on this sweet spot which ties in credibility, social proof, and distribution of testimonials with an app.

#LikesUP for 5 Star Fan Reviews