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Social media has revolutionized the way that we communicate. American internet users spend more than 25% of their time online on social networking sites. According to a recently released Neilsen report, Facebook is the most popular social networking site. Data shows that internet users spend twice as much time on social networks than with online games, the 2nd most popular web destination. Social media is becoming universal as the trends embracing social networking continue to grow. Even mobile applications have benefited, seeing a 30% increase in usage in the past year. The greater connectivity also allows brands to augment how they communicate and interact with customers, as well as reach a greater audience. Does your brand use social media? Here are some tips for building your brand using the most popular social networking platforms.

Twitter

• Leverage this platform to reach and showcase your brand to a CONSTANTLY growing audience. Twitter currently has 100 million active users logging in at least once each month.
• Grab your Twitter handle now because it has as much power as a prime domain name. Personalize your name before an imposter does and save yourself a reputation management nightmare.
• If you are an expert, brand yourself as such. Host Q&A sessions to build your reputation with your audience. Not an expert? Brand yourself based on your passions and skills.

Facebook

• Know your audience and share information that they find useful. This can cause your page to rank higher in Google searches, which is also beneficial.
• Start an event for your industry. This invites more people to your brand and introduces you to a greater market that share similar interests.
• Place a link to your Facebook page on your other social media pages (Twitter, LinkedIn). This will cross-promote your brand even more.

Google+

• Make sure your Google+ profile is completely filled out. The information that you provide is critical and will define who you are to your audience and to the social network. Since information provided in your Google+ profile will show in Google searches, put information that is succinct yet stimulating to your target audience. Many would be more interested in “The Canine Connoisseur,” than a “Dog Expert.”
• Create a discussion. This will enhance and spotlight your expertise. Sharing niche content will build your brand as an expert on that subject matter.
• Use ‘Circles’ to post relevant information to your specific circles. This will help define your name and build your networking currency.

Location based social media such as Google Places, Foursquare and Yelp

• Have a clear plan that includes measurable goals. Know what you are trying to measure, whether it be more sales or a larger subscription list for newsletters. How will you measure – by week or do you desire to see more immediate results daily?
• Encourage check-ins to build loyalty. You can encourage this with deals and rewards. Rewards do not have to be monetary. They can be as simple as a special parking spot or no waiting in line.
• Encourage competition among users. Competition builds loyalty and can be fun for participants. Discounts and deals are the biggest reason why customers will check-in and interact with a brand.

Social media and social networking are growing industries that businesses can’t afford to ignore if they desire to expand and grow their influence. A solid plan on any of the mentioned platforms can be very beneficial. When embarking on planning a social media strategy, sit down and determine what you are trying to measure. The goal can be anything you decide – a larger subscription list or an increase in traffic to your shop. Next, determine how you will entice participants to action. Maybe you’ll offer a discount, or give special recognition, or release premium content? Lastly, track whether you are getting the desired results and tweak where needed. Learn from your mistakes and fine-tune your strategy until you see results.