Social Media is All About Brief, Value-Packed Engagement
MEQUON, Wis. – PUBLISIDE Personal Publicity owner/publicist, Gail Sideman, has learned two things this summer: 1) many adults wish they could go to summer camp and 2) there are a lot more people who don’t realize the value of using social media for business than who do.
In an effort to combine a bit of both, sans cabins and canoes, Sideman is helping to guide business people through the quagmire of social media.
“Social media, when used with thought and consideration to what your target audience wants, needs and expects from your business, may boost publicity and recognition better than any promotional tool available,” said Sideman, who contributes professional advice to national social media and business blogs.
Among the tips she offers people whom she coaches are: 1) always provide value to your readers/followers; 2) engage; people follow those who have their followers/fans interests at heart; 3) be real; customers and other business people hire and patronize those they like and trust; 4) post with consistency so followers/fans know and get into the habit of seeking quality industry information from YOU.
“Social media is a publicity tool that must be used much more transparently than other promotional practices,” Sideman said. “There is quick backlash to people who only promote themselves or are found to be phony or unethical. Social media will expose those blemishes quicker than most outlets.”
Sideman will host a “Social Media Mini-Camp” at Fiddleheads in Mequon (10530 N. Port Washington Road) on Thursday, August 20, 2009 from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. to highlight and expand upon her basic social media business tips. There is a fee to attend, which includes snacks. There will also be some surprise giveaways to attendees.
The interactive, informal program, which is scheduled for the restaurant’s patio for a quasi camp feel (it will move indoors for inclement weather) will provide information about the most valuable uses of social media, including Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn to publicize businesses.
“Social Media Mini-Camp” will be capped at 25 people to keep the group small enough to answer questions and offer on-site tips for people who ask targeted questions during the program.
Contact gsideman@mac.com for details and payment information.
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Five North Shore police departments are teaming up on a new blog that provides residents with the crime prevention and safety tips, and news about community service projects and events throughout the area.
