It’s not so difficult getting started. Where the challenge lies is in knowing what to do after you’ve set up your social media platforms to ensure maximum exposure and a solid ROI.

 In order to make the most of your time, energy and know how, it’s important to cut through the clutter and focus on what works. Here are a few tips to keep you working along the right path.

Know Your Audience.
For small businesses it’s important to interact with the right buying audience. Is your ideal consumer within your geographic area, interested in a niche industry or lifestyle hobby? Starting small yet specific is much better than wide and overwhelming.

 Take the Inititaive.
Social media is much like an after hours mixer or a networking breakfast, you have to take the initiative to have quality conversations. By reaching out to your target audience through informative, welcoming or entertaining comments, you’re working to establish rapport and engage your audience with your brand.

Go easy on the Automation.
There are so many tools in the market to automate your social media conversations. Some of which is fantastic such as pre-scheduled, updates, RSS feeds and smart pre-set responses. However, you must be careful to not over-automate and have misguided, incorrect or embarrassing message go out on your behalf.

Don’t be Afraid of Negative.
Some business owners claim that they would prefer to not enter into the social media game for fear that it opens doors for negative feedback. We feel that this feedback will be made with or without you so it’s best to be engaged and ready to respond to all feedback (good, bad and ugly) in a professional way. This advanced customer service will have you scoring points with other prospects waiting to see how you handle situations.

Give Props when Appropriate.
There is no such thing as an original idea. If you find something that is great and you think you’re community of fans and followers will agree, don’t be shy about re-posting it. Do however, make sure to give proper credit where credit is due.