I agree on its importance, but I do want to warn small (or any size for that matter) businesses that jumping into social media marketing isn’t something that they should do just because it’s new and “relatively inexpensive,” especially if they haven’t logically put social media into their overall marketing and business plans. I see so many companies jumping on the social media bandwagon with little to no regard of its reach and application. Strategy is still key.

Just to put it into perspective (for me, at least) If I gave my 15 year old the keys to the car, while she’d have new freedoms and access to a wider world, it’d pretty dangerous to let her go without the proper education and training. Companies need to think it through just like that. Stay off the super information social media highways until you 1) know where you want to go, 2) know how to get there and 3) who’s going to be there once you’ve arrived.

Thanks so much for stopping by The Brand Chef’s kitchen… It’s good to have you ’round the table to join the conversation.

Keep Cooking!
Andrew B. Clark
The Brand Chef

I think what happens is small businesses find themselves settled down or content with what they’re routine is. They don’t want to move things around for something that doesn’t see instant sales. These business owners need to understand the true value in this space. It’s not directly about the sales, it’s about developing relationships; the sales become second nature. Brands need to tell their story and offer value to their communities to build up their brand equity.

Small business owners need to sit down and rework their ‘system’. This may mean the owner might have to delegate some responsibilities their used to doing.

The bottom line is nobody can ignore this space. Everyone (small, medium, big & even personal brands) must listen, engage, and create value for their community.

Great post Chef!
@EricUngs

It is a true testament to marketers and the strategies that you and I put together to watch the numbers in the survey jump like they have. I’m curious as to how many of the “non-believers” can hold out much longer. While it’s not for EVERYONE, it is available to them. Their target market will be there – eventually. It’s just a matter of how to find them and bring them into the fold!

Thanks for stopping by the kitchen, sir. It’s a true honor.

Keep cooking!
Andrew B. Clark
The Brand Chef