Why you should ‘like’ using social media for your #business

Courtesy of the Better Business Bureau

A guide for using sites like Facebook, Twitter and Google+ to grow your business


The Internet is changing the way the world does business. One of the most recent developments is the rise of social media—technologies and channels that let people all over the world collaborate.


Sites like Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest are important for your business because they provide an open forum for the community. They offer a free venue to market your brand, let you share news about your products and services and provides a virtual place where you can interact directly with your customers. Social media leaves a door open for potential customers and gives you a quick and easy way to share special offers.


Social media marketing works best when you are transparent, when you engage with your customers and when you give something back. It doesn’t work as well if you oversell, rush, or forget to listen.


Here are some popular social media sites and how you can use them to your advantage:



Facebook offers a mini, all-in-one marketing firm for your business. By using Facebook, you can:
Advertise deals, new services and products
Post pictures of events
Customize your page with a profile picture, cover photo and applications (apps)
Share future products or events
Interact with customers
Make connections

Twitter is a short-but-sweet blogging service that gives your business 140 characters to:
Promote your services and products
Interact with current and potential customers
Comment on other companies
Share links and pictures
Advertise deals and coupons


Google+ is your communications tool:
Think of Google+ as your brand hub
Your page, profile image and recent posts are eligible to show up when relevant to a customer’s search
Relevant posts can also show up within search results for your page’s followers
Host Hangouts (similar to group video chats)
Communities allows groups to form around particular interests
Content sharing on Google+ is similar to Facebook


Pinterest is a virtual pin board for your business, focused primarily on photos and videos:
Post pictures and videos of your products and services as well as other interesting content
Follow popular brands and organizations
Interact with your brand’s most loyal customers


LinkedIn is a professional networking website to help you:
Build up your business contacts
Find and hire talent for your business
Discuss business solutions and tips with other businesses in your field
Develop a network with professionals in different areas to improve your business