Best Social Media Practices For Small Business Owners

Social Media if it were to have a "birthday" I guess would be around 10 years old as we look at it today. While it has evolved and continues to do so monthly it seems like, we really need for small business, basic tips for using these platforms. I would like to chime in on my thoughts I typically share with my small business associates.  
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First, businesses need to realize you sell on social media. You create awareness of your brand.  Thus marketing of your business and to an extent, yourself is what you want to achieve here. Be visual in everything you do today with social media.  Words have become obsolete-at least cut way down. Your audience wants to see images and video not read everything. They seriously in today's hectic world, don't have the time and chances are, they are viewing you from their smartphone, laptop, or tablet.  Not sitting in their office or home on the desktop. 

Fan interaction is essential. Have real time conversations with your followers. Do not create a bunch of fans, then sit back and say"look at me!" If these same fans comment or ask questions about your brand or you, reply back!  
My last thought is use the tools you need to use. Do not be on social platforms that will do nothing for your brand or your business. Take time to see what works for you and then work at it.  Bigger is not always better in social media.
 
Roy Garton 
FDMC Social & Digital Media
www.floridadudemarketingconcepts.com