I read some interesting blog posts from Pam Moore and Stacy Kinney about how businesses improperly use social media. Both Pam and Stacy touched on some essential points on how businesses need to make improvements to be more successful with their social media efforts. I thought I'd add my two cents on the subject.

Consistency
Too many businesses think they can be a social media success overnight. They hear these great stories about other brands being prosperous and want to join in. They become frustrated with their efforts and compare themselves to other companies that are doing well on social media. They give up easily and stop posting. Social media takes time and patience but most of all you have to be consistent. Don't give up, you'll get there.

A Band-Aid For Your Business
Social media is not a band-aid for your business. It is not a save-all for your marketing efforts. Social media needs to be integrated with your marketing campaign for it to be most effective. Is your Facebook page on your business cards? Do you include your Twitter link on your e-mail signature? Incorporate social media in all of your marketing and you'll see better results.

Not Observing
Many businesses fail to listen or observe on the different social media networks. They sign-up with their accounts and jump right in selling their message. If you're new to social media, take notes and watch some leaders in your industry. See what they're saying and how they respond to others. Take the time to sit back, observe, and learn the proper etiquette.

Bonus Tip: Not Knowing the Culture
Each social media network has a different culture. You'll find that LinkedIn is serious about business while Facebook tends to be more social. Know the culture of the social media network and format your content for that audience.

Are there any other ways businesses can improve their social media marketing efforts? What have you learned along your social media journey? Let us know in the comments section below!

2011 Predictions: Top 12 Reasons Businesses Will Fail at Social Media by Pam Moore
Look Who's Failing at Social Media Marketing by Stacy Kinney

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