Week 6-Using Social Media for Your Start-Up

Part I-Social Media Introduction

Social media can be both a gift and a curse depending on how you use it.  When you are branding, marketing, and advertising, social media can be great because you can get your product or services out to the masses without spending a ton of money.  BUT, if you don't know what you are doing, it can cost you dearly and could potentially destroy your business.

When using social media, it should be treated no differently then advertising on a billboard, phone book (remember those things that had about 500 pages in them), or a commercial on tv.  You want to make sure that you are putting your best foot forward because you only have one shot to hook a potential customer.  Social media, actually the internet in general is a lot like Vegas.  What you put on the internet, STAYS on the internet.  In other words, try to avoid costly mistakes if at all possible. For example; If a customer leaves a bad review on your Facebook page, don't ignore it.  Respond back, in a polite manner, and if you can resolve the issue, do so.  

Don't be afraid to use social media.  My advice for the novice user is to try one social media tool at a time.  Facebook may be one of the easier ones to use, so you may want to start there.  Simply create a business page, one that highlights what your business is about, its location, website information, and any other pertinent information necessary.  And viola, you are on your way to building your business via social media.  But, wait, there is more...

Come back on Wednesday for Part II- How to Use Twitter, Facebook, and other social media to boost your business.