Having a plan for social media for small businesses is probably the best way to feel in control of what you are doing. If you just start out by setting up your Facebook Fan Page, Twitter account, write a few articles, and then send out your newsletter you could quickly get overwhelmed by the time commitment. The reality is that you have a business to run.
Creating a simple check list, like the one featured on Small Biz Survival might be the answer to your prayers. "Daily goals could include updating your Facebook and LinkedIn status, responding to all comments on your blog, tweeting five interesting links (not counting any links to your own stuff) on Twitter, and engaging a few friends in conversation." Becky McCray advises.
Create an actual social media checklist that you have on a sticky note next to your computer. Take Becky's ideas and as you do each item everyday you can feel like you are making your way through this social media universe.
The key is: You don't have to do this for hours everyday. You don't have to be tied to your computer every moment. You can limit the time you spend and still make an impact.
Create your goals and the services you are going to use to reach them and slowly start getting your voice out there. Don't get overwhelmed. Here is a good article that features some of my thoughts at the bottom of the article - read, but don't feel overwhelmed.
If you want to see what all your social media possibilities are for your daily checklist you can see what Chris Brogan has to say, but don't feel you have to do all or any of these everyday. They are just ideas to help you see what is available with social media.
Photo Credit: counteract.
