Its true that social media is changing the way that we sell our products, ideas and services. Businesses who are not using social media tools like facebook and twitter are going to miss the boat, waving to the passengers as they venture off into the deep blue sea of relationship marketing. 

But social media is not a strategy unto itself. 

To dive into the vast ocean of niche markets and consumers waiting for your product, you must use social media in COMBINATION with other forms of more “traditional” marketing. 

But… I thought social media was the cost effective, non-traditional way to market your business? 

It is… but marketing still doesn’t come free. It is certainly cutting out the middle man, putting advertising back into the hands of business owners. Its CLOSER to free. 

But remember:

1. Not everyone is using social media.
2. Not everyone is using social media … effectively. 

If you use social media alone you will miss a HUGE percentage of consumers. 

Why else should I combine traditional marketing with social media?

This is nothing new! The model for any marketing campaign is called “The Marketing Mix.” Why do you think it has ALWAYS been called a MIX? Because you have to combine methods. 

“All of our campaigns involve a combination of traditional marketing, plus social media,” said IBM VP Sandy Carter. “We actually don’t believe in a solid social media campaign. We always combine it.”

Some Examples and Suggestions: 

1. Combine an in-person event with an online discussion forum so participants can connect before and after the event. This is what I call “Social Media in Real Life.”

2. Use your business cards to find potential clients on Facebook. You are already connected in person, so connect online. 

3. Use real postcards or greeting cards for your clients, in combination with social media tools. 

4. Seek news coverage for your blog. 

What are your ideas or experiences? Post them here!