Walt Denny Inc. Blog

Build Buzz at IBS: Mix Social Media with In-Person Networking

Create buzz, familiarize and engage prospects and customers face-to-face by utilizing a TweetUp.   A TweetUp connects Twitter users with similar interests in one physical location with an event or social gathering that can focus on your company’s products or services.  Many trade shows across several industries, like the International Builders' Show (IBS) in Orlando, offer a great opportunity to meet prospects, customers and even members of the media.  Put a human face on the increasing number of digital personas your business interacts with regularly.  Use this effective social media strategy to combine new age marketing techniques with traditional in-person networking.

Many businesses harness TweetUps to meet customers, prospects and drive sales.  For example, if your business launches a new product at the International Builders' Show, turn to Twitter. Alert your followers, the Twitter-verse and show attendees about your event.  (Be sure to use the official International Builders' Show hashtag, #IBS2011.)  At the TweetUp, offer free samples of your products or demonstrations to familiarize prospects with your business and innovative offerings.  The benefits are threefold.  You gather immediate feedback, attendees share their experiences of the event with their online peers and attract editors who attend shows like IBS.

How Social Media Can Strengthen your Marketing Strategy

 

Social media is a fresh, dynamic way to communicate directly with prospects and customers, increase your business’ visibility and listen to what is being said about your company.  However, social media by itself cannot substitute for a marketing or public relations strategy, control customer dialogue or guarantee sales.  Before you implement a social media program, evaluate your business goals to determine if social media engagement is for you.

According to a Nielsen report, time spent on social media sites increased by 82% from 2008 to 2009.  A Facebook Fan Page or a Twitter account is a great way to reach and engage the networks’ massive audiences.  Use a social network to announce company happenings, promotions and product innovations.  Leverage social sites like YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Bebo, etc. to enhance your current marketing mix.

According to recent research, 20% of tweets and 70% of blogs mention brands or product names.   Social media acts as a modern, global public forum where products and brands are openly being discussed, both positively and negatively.  Take advantage of the public discussions about your business’ products or services to hone your marketing message.  Discover brand evangelists and harness social networking sites to build a following and participate in the discussion.

Charge Ahead of the Pack with Thought Leadership

Gain recognition as a primary source for industry insight. Be a highly respected company in your field.   And, improve your company’s search engine rankings.  It’s all possible with “Thought Leadership”. To improve your competitive position, package your knowledge into “Thought Leadership” public relations tools such as blogs, on-line video interviews or slide presentations, white papers, webinars, and case studies.  Using vehicles like these, corporate leaders regularly articulate valuable information to their industry media as well as their prospects and customers.

According to a Business Week report, 70% of Americans conduct research before purchasing products or services.  Providing helpful insight can quickly build trust and goodwill with your current and potential customers.   Capitalize on this trend by having your company’s expertise readily available online and through traditional media.

To be recognized as an industry expert, keep apprised of the latest technology advancements, product innovations and market trends.  According to an eMarketer report, in 2009, there were an estimated 82.5 million online content creators.  

Focus on your own unique information, ideas and insight to set your messages apart, and make your company stand out from your competition.  Commit to continuous learning about your industry as well as the opportunities and threats that may affect it.  

When prospects and customers perceive you