Beginnings of a Social Media Business Strategy

It’s no secret. I’m passionate about using social media in business settings.

My Twitter stream is full of people who write and share about social media branding and R.O.I. (return on investment) and content strategy. Staying on the leading edge of using new media for business is important to me, personally and professionally.

And yet…

Most Business Folks Aren’t Social

Every day I talk with small business owners who have yet to dip their toe into social media. Heck, they aren’t even using basic technology to the fullest functionality:

• Computers are running outdated programs that move at a snail’s pace.
• Cell phones are used solely for phone calls even when the phones are “smart.”
• “Copy and paste” is a foreign language.

Take a look at this email I received today.

It is now time for me to step into the new forms of social media & technology that are out there. I currently  do not TEXT, FACEBOOK, TWITTER , use a i-pod or even know how to take pictures (on purpose) with my cell phone. I tried to set up a personal page and business page. Will you be my friend or fan?

It’s Not About the Tools…

We hear the refrain at least once a day.

It IS about the tools in the beginning. Or the font size. Or the color of the background. Or the placement of widgets. Or how many words are required for a post. Or not using a personal image on Facebook. Or speaking in first-person vs. third-person. Or being fearful of comments. Everyone starts the social media journey based on where they are today.

These business owners are smart. They run a successful business and are reaching out to learn. Are we taking the time to meet them at their point of need?

Do we invite them to social media events and leave them drenched by a fire-hose? When you see the deer-in-headlights glaze, what do you do?

How are you reaching out to beginners?

Photo Credit: Katie Tegtmeyer via Flickr