Alaska Mystic Ventures

Exchange “Web Site” for “Social Media” and this article could be straight out of 2000.

In 2000 we were talking about whether every small business could benefit from a website, many considered it a myth. It’s pretty well accepted now that every business should have at least a minimal presence on the web. I think that the same can be said about business participation in social networks and using social media.

In 2000 we were talking about the need for businesses to have clear goals for their website with strategic and tactical plans for reaching them. The same is true today about the use of social media. It’s important for businesses to make sure that their social media participation are aligned with and support their business, website, marketing and promotions. Regardless the media, there must be a consistency in the presentation of the brand and message.

In 2000 we were talking about the need for promoting the company website in all of their marketing, promotion and advertising. Use of social networks works best if you let people know you are there. People might find you by searching or happenstance, but that’s not something you want to count on. Not only should businesses let everyone know they are using those networks, they should be actively seeking information from their customers and suppliers about which networks they use and begin connecting with them. Everyone accepts the importance of an email list, social network contacts should be considered just as important.

In 2000 we were talking about personal branding through email discussion lists and web forums. While we’ve added different technological platforms, the rules of engagement have not changed. You wouldn’t walk into a cocktail party full of people you don’t know and start announcing your business interrupting conversations. You will just be an annoyance, people will tune you out, or worse yet, have you tossed from the party ruining any possible future dialogue.

In 2000 we were talking about the need for a commitment of time and money for a successful website and Internet involvement. Participation in social networks can be very time consuming so it’s important to budget time and/or money to make certain that there is a consistent presence to be effective.