Tools
Most small businesses that are just getting their feet wet using social media are unable to effectively market themselves on multiple platforms. It is best to embrace a select few and do it well rather than to jump on the social media bandwagon and be left speechless. The three most effective social media tools for small business owners are Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. While each has a different style these platforms are powerful enough to build a solid social foundation for any business before they expand into other social media outlets such as Pinterest and Vine.
Time
be sure to schedule the time to work on Social Media. Whether it is a block of time once, twice or three times a week it is the most effective way to approach this very necessary task.
Timing
The timing of posts is crucial to effective social media marketing. Research shows that just before or after the hours, around meal times and Tuesdays and Thursdays are the prime posting times. There are business-specific preferences that should also be considered such as weekend postings for restaurants and bars.
Topics
Social media platforms are not an opportunity for brands to talk about themselves. In fact, 85% of the chatter should be about topics that are fun, timely or valuable. Like a good dinner guest, it is impolite to monopolize the conversation talking about oneself.
