4 Top Social Media Marketing Trends For 2011

There is no doubt that social media is growing like wildfire and if a business wants to make an impact, they need to embrace social media marketing in 2011. While social marketing trends have come and gone, some slowly fizzling like MySpace and some bombing quickly like Google Buzz, there are a few social trends that are setting the stage for the future of marketing. Let’s take a look at the 5 top social media marketing trends for 2011:

1. Incorporate And Grow Your Social Media Marketing in 2011

Since social trends in 2011 will continue to skyrocket, it is important for businesses to get in on the action now. This is the best time to incorporate social media into your business’s marketing plan. If you already take part in some social marketing, then step it up a notch. The key is to look beyond Facebook and see where your customers are gathering. Think about how you can use these other social media sites:

• Twitter
• Linkedin
• YouTube
• Wikis
• Google Places
• Facebook Places
• Foursquare
• Blogs ( Both yours and others)
• Online Forums and Message Boards

2. Mobile Phone Marketing

The growing use of Smartphones is another area showing fabulous momentum in social trends in 2011. More than just SMS, mobile phones can now handle mobile websites, SEO, applications, location based searches, and visual banners. Mobile marketing is still relatively new, so it is easy to break into and is a very affordable way to market your products or services. Just like marketing with any other venues, you must plan and set measurable goals. Do some research to find what works best for your business. Start with something basic and if works well, increase your efforts.

3. Videos Attract Visitors

Just looking at the increasing numbers of YouTube subscribers goes to show that people want to watch videos. A video provides another level of intimacy and interactivity that the written word cannot provide. A video is the epitome of social media marketing in 2011. Large companies with famous brand names are adding video marketing to their bag of tricks and the rest of the business world, no matter how small or large, should follow. It is very easy to create a video with a webcam, or hire one of the many agencies that are forming to create one for you.

4. Unique And Relevant Content Is King

With Google’s Panda update still fresh in everyone’s mind, providing unique and relevant content on your website is the best way to attract potential clients to your website. The more people visit your site, the more money your company will earn. Make sure you are providing your target market with the information that they want to see. Don’t just push products and preach to your customers, provide them with useful information and create a trusting relationship. A great way to do this is to share industry related news, informative tips, provide exclusive discounts and sales, and encourage discussion within the online community.

These 4 top social media marketing trends for 2011 are just the start of how you can utilize the internet and social media websites to increase sales and grow your business. With a little research and strategic planning, you will be well on your way to a financially successful year.