The year is fresh, and most likely you're thinking about the year ahead. As you plan and strategize your marketing plan for 2012, keep in mind that social media is ever evolving. While we don’t have a crystal ball to predict what the next big app or site will be, we can certainly speculate (and social media experts have) the manner in which we will use social media going forward.
The best way experts can predict the future is to look at the past. In 2011, we learned how powerful social media can be: From Alec Baldwin using Twitter to tear apart the airline industry to everyday customers putting a stop to bank fees by organizing planned protests on Facebook. Experts agree you can expect more of the same in 2012. Therefore, monitoring your business' online reputation through social media is essential for keeping your good name.
Also, interaction with your customers and followers will be increasingly important when it comes to brand awareness. Customers want to engage with companies they like, and businesses need to take note. In fact, a study done by Socialbakers found that 95% of Facebook wall posts went unanswered. This is another example of businesses thinking it’s enough just to have a social media presence without engaging their customers. People don’t want to be ignored, and when they are they'll seek attention from your competition.
In 2011, we saw how Google’s Panda changes and other search engines became pickier when it comes to content. Algorithms are getting better at appraising content and throwing out pages containing low-quality information. The introduction of Google+, which enables users to rank SEO, encourages content of the highest quality. Experts have found that more and more people are relying on content versus advertising when making buying decisions. It appears that Internet content is replacing television spokesmen. So it's vital your message is crafted the right way.
But regardless of what happens in 2012, there is one thing you can count on…social media is here to stay.
For more information on social media marketing and how it can work for you, contact Machus today.
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