Facebook, Twitter, etc. Are you kidding me?

8 replies
After logging some Quickbooks activity, I noticed a question in the live community box and was compelled to comment on this. The question was:

" How many small business owners out there are using Facebook (and other social networks) to promote their business? "

Answers given from TONS of businesses that have no business being on social web platforms.

As an offline consultant I can tell you that i've seen businesses who throw themselves at every available marketing opportunity, REGARDLESS if it fits their product, service, industry, etc.

All too often, small business are blindly tossing themselves in social networks 'because it's the thing to do.' I am sorry, but that just isn't the correct course of action for some businesses.

I was consulting for a metal distribution company who cuts metal and ships it out according to custom spec, etc. (ALL B2B and the occasional hobbyist or large scale DIY handyman at home). During the meeting, they were talking about getting on facebook and twitter and other tools of the like because someone said it would be a good idea to generate business.

Are you kidding me?
Yeah, beacause your customers (industrial purchasing pro's) are definitely following and finding you on facebook.

Just because your company is on facebook (or take your pick of web 2.0 platforms) you think you're going to drum up MAD business? No. Some companies don't belong in the social space and all too often I stumble upon (no name pun intended) so many irrelevant businesses that are 'attempting' to promote via social web platforms.

Businesses need to take their time to evaluate the best marketing plan an be selective about the tools that they choose to use. Just because so many businesses are like, 'let's get into facebook, blah blah blah' 1) doesn't mean it will work and 2) will most likely be an abysmal failure for the wrong type of business.

Now don't get me wrong. Social web platforms are obviously the RIGHT choice for many businesses looking to expand, raise awareness, etc., and I will let them know right off the bat if they are great candidates. Otherwise, just more wasted time and marketing dollars down the drain.

Ok, i'm done!
#facebook #twitter #watch
  • Profile picture of the author freudianslip27
    Interesting share,

    Yes, some of those businesses don't quite sound like they would benefit from throwing themselves at facebook.

    Though if it was someone like a small time plumber, I could see people thinking it was "cool" he was on facebook. It could add social proof as people post on his wall about jobs well done.

    Matt
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    • Profile picture of the author Eric Stanley
      Originally Posted by freudianslip27 View Post

      Interesting share,

      Yes, some of those businesses don't quite sound like they would benefit from throwing themselves at facebook.

      Though if it was someone like a small time plumber, I could see people thinking it was "cool" he was on facebook. It could add social proof as people post on his wall about jobs well done.

      Matt
      Ah yes, the 'cool' factor, definitely hear you there. But in this case, if I am looking for a plumber, I don't really think i'll be cruising around fbook for testimonials. I'd rather be directed to his site via google local or what have you, and then read something on this site, etc.

      Good discussion, let's keep it going.
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  • You make a good point...
    Yeah it rather looks quite absurd when you see traditional brick and mortar businesses promoting themselves through a facebook group... It is rather poor
    I personally think it makes any business look rather tacky... Most times out of ten, these businesses don't even have their own websites, and when they do they are even more tackier!
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  • Profile picture of the author Anthony Smith
    Good thoughts my fellow new yorker, and I definitely agree. If you own a bar/restaurant, it's brilliant and useful. If you own a hardware store, not so much. I find it amusing when i come across those profiles, gives me a tickle.
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  • Profile picture of the author Eric Stanley
    You got it. You wouldn't believe the profiles i've seen. This just goes to show the 'bandwagon' effect that many companies experience when they are looking to improve their marketing response. It's really like a chicken with its head cut off, clinging to anything and everything before the last breath.. Odd analogy I know, but its an epidemic.
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  • Profile picture of the author danhughes
    But, if searching for a plumber, and sh/e had a YouTube DIY video, or an advice group on Facebook I would probably pay twice as much to get him to fix my toilet. I don't think we should ever underestimate the value and power of putting a real human face on your business.
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  • Profile picture of the author Kelvin Brown
    I am in agreement with Dan. Maybe there are businesses that should not be on facebook. I have not yet seen an example of one. I highly recommend plumbers be on facebook. And any other social networks. Regardless as to if they have, their own " website ".

    Maybe they feel more comfortable using facebook as there is no coding at all, just simple typing, or uploading of videos if they have gotten that far.

    And remember, all the links from social sites, at times sending traffic back to your regular website.

    You could be a plumber, landscaper, or printer. Once a week you could provide articles, simple tips and instructions. Maybe you just want an easy way to let people know you are on vacation.

    Bottom line, I just don't see how having facebook for these businesses is a no-no.

    kelvin
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