Ask James Caan: How do I use social media effectively?

Small business agony uncle: James Caan

3 November 2014

Small business agony uncle James Caan explains how social media can help get your business known.

Dear James

I am a recent start-up finding it difficult to get my name “out there”. I have tried using social media (although pretty sporadically). Can you suggest how I can make myself more present?

Bethany Loxdale

First, there is no time for sporadic efforts in business.

If you really want to make a difference in your industry, you need to be driven to succeed — and this is especially true when it comes to digital marketing. Social media has revolutionised the way we do business. There is no excuse for ignoring that and if you do, you’ll never get anywhere!

Since I started blogging as a LinkedIn Influencer I have gained more than 2 million followers and I can’t tell you how much of a difference it has made to my business ventures.

Bearing in mind these things are free, I always advise people to take the time out to become a social-media expert because marketing costs are always the biggest challenge for any new business.

Social media is a must and should be a critical part of your strategy.

Secondly, begin to understand the importance of networking. When you start a business your main priority is gaining customers.

How do you do that if nobody has ever heard of you or your product? Networking may be a little tedious, but it is the easiest way of penetrating your market and meeting other like-minded people who could turn into potential clients.

You can download my free Business Secrets app for exclusive tips and access to my audio books.

Ask James Caan: How do I use social media effectively?

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