It depends because the site that is the best for your business is really the one that works best for you.

Ok, so what do I mean by that?  I mean you have to find the one that best works with your personality, style, corporate culture, target audience, and needs.  There are literally hundreds of social networking sites (actually, let’s start calling them business networking sites).

The big three that I talk about all the time are Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter.  If you’re a member of the Salem Chamber, don’t forget Face2Face.  BUT, that doesn’t necessarily mean these are the only ones or that either of these is “it” for you. Each one has it’s unique characteristics.  And, there may be a niche networking site that generates more leads and relationships for you than the big three.

So how do you determine which one is best?  Let me first say that it is not an overnight kind of deal.  Just like any other marketing strategy, it will take time and some testing, measuring, and tweaking to fine tune your strategy.

Here’s my suggestion;

1. Setup profiles on all of the big name networks.  Follow a branded approach so that you present your company brand consistently among the networks.
2. Also research and find either 2-3 niche networks or groups within the big three that are your target market.  A great place to start is to go to Ning.com and search niche social networks to find one that interests you.
3. Start building connections, friends, followers, etc. on each site by inviting select current contacts to connect with you AND by carefully selecting others who are a) like minded or b) are in your target demographic.
4. Start writing articles (aka blogging) to a) position yourself as an expert, and b) test response to your articles
5. Connect your articles so that they automatically post to your online profiles.  Some call this magic … and I would agree.
6. Engage, provide value, and build relationships.  See who responds and on what sites.  Determine which site(s) you are most confortable on.
7. Get married to the process, NOT to a particular site.  What works today may be outdated a year from now … but if you engage in the process, and are willing to adapt and change as necessary, you will always be ready to thrive.

Make no mistake, online business networking is here to stay.   Business is being done.  Relationships are being built.  Time is being leveraged (yes, you read that correctly).  Brands are being built.

I strongly encourage you to incorporate online social business networking into your marketing plans.  If you’d like help getting started and determining the best strategy for your company, give us a call at 503.581.4554.