Is it just me, or does it seem like Social Media and Social Networking are going to be the big buzz words of 2010? Every day I am bombarded with invitations to come hear the newest expert talk about how you can become the next expert too. There are a lot of tricks and maybe a few tips discussed about how we all need to be online and embracing the new tools for networking, marketing and PR.
I happen to agree! For real estate investing in Memphis, especially those building brands and long-term businesses, embracing Social Media is an absolute must. At MemphisInvest.com, I have made it my personal mission to learn and absorb as much about Social Media in 2010 as possible.
I gave a talk two weeks ago (yes, I'm one of those "next experts") to the Mid-South real estate investors association in Memphis about the need to secure and take control of your online presence. Regardless of your line of business or situation in life, we are all in need of a web presence simply for the ability to control our image and the story that others hear about us.
My talk focused on getting online and getting involved to promote your brand, your image and stimulate activity for your company. Many on hand were individuals that didn't have a particular company to brand or promote, but by the end of the evening they understood the need to get online.
It is becoming more and more commonplace for banks, lenders, insurance companies, hiring firms, colleges, etc., etc. to run the names of those wishing to do business with them across several social sites and through an online name search, just to see what comes up. If you are not in control of your image and your message, then there is no telling what will come up. Whether it's having a presence on a simple media tool like Youtube or Facebook, or going elaborate with hosting your own blog; controlling the message about you personally or about your company, is going to be vitally important for 2010!
If you would like to receive a copy of the presentation I made, including 5 do's and 5 don't's for Social Media, you can post a message at the bottom of this post and I will forward that to you. Don't forget to make sure I know how to email you.
Chris
