The Role of Social Media as an Online PR Tool

Social media and networking is a tool every PR and marketing professional must use, not only for their clients but also for themselves. If you have a background in communications, PR or marketing then you can learn how to use social media to your advantage. Many traditional PR concepts can be adapted for use on social media and networking sites.  First, you must be clear about the brand image and the marketing message you want to convey. Second, you have to set goals for what you want to accomplish with your social media presence. Third, you have to create a plan of attack and outline what you will do to build your social media presence each week.

Social Media & Referral Marketing

Social media, in the simplest terms, is a tool to facilitate successful referral marketing online. Think of the “Share” button as your best friend.  Every week social media sites create more cross over to make it easier and faster to share your content with others and ask them to share it with their contacts. The best referrals you can get are from your past or current clients/customers. Use your email contact lists to connect with them on social media and networking sites and encourage them to share, suggest and recommend your business. Provide valuable, useful, relevant  information and use your social media presence to establish your expertise, credibility and brand.