You may have seen the MI6 disaster this week. The new head of MI6, Sir John Sawers, is at the centre of a security breach after his wife published family holiday photographs and other personal details on the Facebook website. A classic example of not using social media wisely. As a small business using social media can be a quick win for boosting and maintaining business. Sites such as Facebook and Twitter mean you can display everything from photos, videos, discussion forums, personal and professional profiles and links to other online materials or news. And these can all promote your company and your brand. But be careful not to get it wrong, here are a few simple rules to help:
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Make sure your social media is still targeting your audience - some social media sites are geared toward teens and young adults, while others cater to business professionals
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Consider your demographics and tailor your marketing messages to appeal to different demographics, the same as your would for your traditional marketing materials
- Think about mixing business and pleasure - anyone can be found online these days, make sure you have made a decision about what you are happy being online
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And finally, be professional at all times - it can be easy to get sucked into the less formal arena of social media
