It has often been said that social media involves interaction with potential customers more than direct selling. Here’s an explanation for the uninitiated:

Understanding the Difference Between Online and Offline Dynamics

Image via Wikipedia

The concept of marketing with social media is similar to a conversation. Imagine you meet someone at an event who could eventually become a potential buyer. They immediately strike up a conversation with you. What is the first thing you would say to them? Would you rant about the greatness of your products and services? Would you continue to ramble without letting them get a word in edgewise? Or would you listen to their words, needs and what they are really saying?

People want to be heard, their opinions known and they want someone to listen to their needs. When you solve the problems and meet the needs of your target audience, you will sell your products and services. In social media, meeting the needs of the people spells: finding out what your audience is saying and giving them something valuable, getting them involved with fun exercises and contests to help them form a unique affiliation with your brand, and distributing valuable content. Only then will your fan base grow which will increase your sales in the long term.

~Excerpted from The Correct Way to Increase Your Facebook Fan Base (SocialUps) [image added]

Come back tomorrow for a real-world example of this technique in action.