Social media has become an essential component of the successful marketer’s toolkit, and its integration with traditional public relations solutions yields the most tangible results. Building and maintaining positive public relations is the essence of any business – but owners who embrace a multi-tiered public relations plan and use it to position themselves as knowledgeable, helpful, and accessible in their local and regional tech markets are often the most successful.
In addition to providing top-notch service to each prospect and client, business owners should seek out opportunities to write and place press releases, articles, and op-eds in local and industry publications. Each printing increases visibility, maximizes messaging, and enhances image. Business owners can also further their reputations as experts in the manufacturing and technology industry by securing speaking opportunities at relevant public, B2C, and B2B events and by sponsoring local charitable and civic events.
Public Relations Inform Your Social Media Strategy
The results, experiences, and insights gained through public relations efforts will amplify your social media marketing strategy. First, it is imperative to research available social media applications, including Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and YouTube, among others, to determine those that will most effectively deliver your message to your target audience. For instance, a business serving a high number of professionals may find the most leads via LinkedIn, while producers may enjoy increased inquiries as a result of product demonstration videos posted on YouTube. For your technology or manufacturing company, LinkedIn or Facebook will provide the best current leads for the industry.
Making Social Media Work For You
Business owners should share public relations outcomes, including press releases, blog posts, presentations, and links to published articles via social media. There are free web-based tools that allow users to post to all their networks at once (e.g., Ping.fm). Additionally, posting links to helpful or interesting industry articles that provide social media followers the latest news and information within the tech world is always popular. Business owners can further their success in building a fan base, and promote their brand, message, and image, by creating tips and insights to share via their networks.
Social media marketing can easily be incorporated into your daily routine if you create a social media marketing calendar that includes product or service-related tips, upcoming events, articles, and links to industry news articles. Start with a two-month schedule and plan to post 3 to 5 times per week.
By tapping into your existing public relations efforts, industry knowledge, and personal news, you will quickly enhance your professional reputation and engage with your target market in a new and accessible way. To find out more about creating and following an integrated public relations and social media marketing strategy, or if you would like assistance in getting started, contact an integrated marketing firm.
____________________________________________________________________________________
Linda A. Fanaras is the President and Founder of Millennium Agency (www.mill.agency) located in Boston and Manchester, NH. She can be reached at 877-873-7445 or lfanaras@mill.agency.
About Millennium Agency
Millennium Agency is a nationally recognized, top woman led B2B branding, positioning, and digital marketing firm who knows how to create value that emotionally influences your customer’s buying decision, giving you the competitive advantage. As your trusted partner in B2B software technology and manufacturing, we provide the branding and positioning framework that make an impact – so you can focus on what you do best – run your business successfully. With offices in Boston and New Hampshire, and a worldwide presence, the professionals at Millennium Agency would like to learn more about your business. Visit www.mill.agency or book time here.
