Social Media and the New Wave of Internet Marketers

Few things have proven to be more important weapons in the Internet marketer's arsenal than social networks.  

This is because social networks provide huge memberships to leverage for marketing efforts.  

Unlike opt-in emails or leads generated from websites, social media sites allow users to connect with one another in real time and without harvesting personal contact information. 

Translation? It's not only easier, it's less intrusive.  

Consider an application like Twitter, for example.  

You can choose to “follow” anyone you'd like to. Usually, even if the person doesn't know you, they'll start “following” you in return. 

Suddenly, you have a window into that person's life and business, and they can see what you're up to. 

Kind of redefines the phrase “direct marketing,” doesn't it? 

Imagine how long that would take in email! 

But, this isn't the Wild West here. There are some ground rules for social media users and Internet marketers are not exempt from them. 

And, remember that social media is just another marketing vehicle. Treat it as such and never compromise your personal brand. 

Back to those ground rules.... 

First, never be overly aggressive. If someone rejects you or chooses to block you as a follower, friend, or fan, respect that. Do not attempt to reconnect later. 

Do find your “voice” and use it to connect all your social media accounts.  

Choose 3 things you always want people to know about you and drive those points home when you can. 

Provide valuable information to your network. Consider yourself the authority on your niche and give expert advice, commentary, tips, and news. 

While your goal is to grow your network, don't make your social media interactions one-sided sales pitches.  

The idea of social networks is to offer places for people to communicate and interact. Look for opportunities to give as often as you take.  

Update your social media sites regularly. People won't stick around to listen to the crickets because you were away for a month. 

Keep most of your personal life out of your professional networks.  

While it's good to share a few things to personalize your brand, over sharing is unprofessional and may cost you if someone disagrees.  

And, just like everywhere else, steer clear of both politics and religion. 

Don't forget to share your social media usernames on your websites, in blogs, and in your other marketing campaigns. 

Plan on being a bit repetitive. It's totally normal to link social media accounts to share information between different networks.  

The more people see an update, the more likely they are to remember it. 

Monetize your sites!  

Wherever you can, sign up for advertising and affiliate programs offered by your social networks to turn a profit as you market your business. 

And, don't rely too heavily on social media for marketing and network building. These are still fairly new technologies, and not everyone is on board and using them regularly. 

These people will still appreciate the personal touch of email campaigns and newsletters. 

There have never been more tools to help Internet marketers build their networks and their businesses. Social media has proven to be one of the most successful. 

But, just because the tools have changed, doesn't mean good old common sense doesn't remain. 

Social media should help streamline your marketing efforts but can’t replace building real relationships and offering something people actually want. 

In the end, no matter what social media sites you choose to join, remember you're a real person dealing with real people and not just one machine talking to another.