ADP WINTER, 2014 | Vol. 23 No. 3                 
ADP ADVISOR
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Six steps for starting your company in social media

A report from online small-business marketer Manta shows that 50 percent of smaller businesses have increased time spent on social media by nearly 55 percent. They're using platforms like Twitter® and Facebook® to generate sales leads and new business. If you're thinking of dipping your toe into the social-media waters, here are six steps for getting started.

1. Ease into it

Begin with a personal Facebook® or LinkedIn® account. Follow people on Twitter®. Once you get a feel for it, you'll be better able to see how to use social media to your company's advantage.

2. Create a plan

There's no "do over" with social media, so be thoughtful about how you use it. Develop a written strategy and make it available to anyone in your company who uses social media to promote your business.

3. Make time for it

Decide how often you'll be using social media to boost your business, then commit to it. Schedule it just as you would a regular client meeting or call.

4. Tell your story

Share the same things you're already telling your customers, employees, and vendors through more traditional media. It could be a tweet about a book you found inspirational, a weekly blog that showcases employee innovations and new products and services, or just about anything else you think will tell your story.

5. Form the right team

Typically, marketing, sales, and public relations leaders are active users of social media. But it doesn't have to be limited to those functions. Decide where it makes the most sense in your company to be engaged in social media.

6. Listen

Social media is a great way to learn what people are saying about your company, its products and services, employees, and your brand. Sometimes, what you hear won't be positive, but once you know what's being said, you can address it quickly and strategically. Your openness in reacting to a problem will tell your customers and employees a lot about your brand.

ADP TotalSource® is well versed in HR developments and stays on top of new rules that affect social media in the workplace.


This article was condensed from an in-depth write-up in ADP's Bottom Line magazine, offering expert insight into today's most pressing HR management and compliance challenges. Visit the Bottom Line home page to download the current and archived issues.

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