For all practical purposes, I will demonstrate one way that companies can benefit using Social Media. Answer: Through Status Updates When used correctly you can:

• Generate Leads
• Create Brand Advocacy
• Generate Opt-Ins
• Create TradeShow Buzz
• Secure meetings when traveling

Lets just cover the Big Three LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. If your company will spend a small amount of time building a targeted following with each, then the above listed results can happen on a regular basis. When utilizing status updates you want to create thought provoking and action requiring headlines. Just like you do in your business in front of your customer you can engage in qualifying questions and event announcements that will create the above listed results.

Some things to think about: Be sure to bring value to your community with a 12:1 Ratio: meaning be sure to post 12 useful updates that require no commitment or acknowledgement to your company in order to post one that will drive results for your company. This creates authenticity with your community. Next, when you do post announcements, events, or qualifying questions be sure to provide links to your site, opt ins, or blog in order to bring your connections to the next step in your sales process.

These are some example updates that can help you get started in creating opportunities for your business:

EXAMPLE 1: “I will be at the ACME convention in February, looking forward to exhibiting, www.acmecompanywebsite…” You will be surprised but this you may have others who reply back letting you know they are attending and want to meet up to discuss opportunities.

EXAMPLE 2: “How do you currently approach your XYZ category?” This question is built around your qualifying questions in your business. Again be ready for responses back that you can potentially turn into opportunities. This is a soft lead generation approach through Social Media that will be widely accepted as it is not aggressive marketing.

EXAMPLE 3: "Join us for a -TOPIC- no cost webinar with live Q & A today at 4pm EST with –LINK-“ this may require putting together a webinar, but when people sign up you secure their contact info to take it to the next step. Hopefully these three examples get the wheels turning and helps your business take the next step in capitalizing in using Social Media for Business

So can you name one reason?.