Do small businesses leverage social marketing for their lead generation? A Citibank Small Business survey reports that most do not use or find social media marketing effective. In an eMarketing article "Does Social Media Work for S mall Biz?" (Oct 27, 2009), only 12% reported any effectiveness for their business. The vast majority, 63 % said it was not.
It would be helpful to determine the product/service breakdown of these businesses and more on their experiences (what vehicle did they try, for how long etc). We believe that social marketing can work - and may be vital for SMB's (small and mid-sized businesses), especially if they are in a competitive environment. A simple Facebook Fan page could help increase awareness and drive sales - or a blog that positions the business owner as a thought leader. Would this work for a dry cleaner...why not? For an auto dealer - you bet. A funeral home... a local computer repair center... a landscaper... yes yes yes. It just takes the right strategy.
We see this survey with a glass half full - in presenting opportunities for SMB's to successfully leverage social media marketing. In future think-ebiz social media articles, we will show-case strategies for social marketing for different businesses and verticals.
