The growth of social media has exploded on to the web – and there are no signs it will be slowing any time soon. While Tweeting, poking and tagging may primarily be consumer-based activities, it would be unwise to assume there are not social network marketing opportunities to help promote your business.

A word of caution though, getting involved in a social network or two with the sole purpose of selling can quickly turn customers away. The key to successful participation in any social media marketing is to do so genuinely, to value relationships and not to take goodwill for granted. So, what are some of the best social media marketing techniques that can work for your business?

Get Social Media Marketing Working for You
The choice of social media platforms continues to grow – with a plethora of social networking websites to choose from. While hugely successful sites such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube may be taking all the plaudits, there are many more social networking websites to consider. Your first goal is to establish where your target audience is active, and then 'get on board that bus'.

A final word of warning before we move on to review the 20 social networking tactics for business. Don't dive in too soon. Take some time to monitor and learn from your customers' existing activity. This will enable you to participate in a similar fashion, rather than sticking out like a sore thumb.

20 Ways to Use Social Media to Promote Your Business
The following 20 social media marketing tactics will enable you to genuinely participate within social networks while simultaneously promoting your business successfully.

1. Highlight – and link out to – industry news or world news relevant to your field.
2. Share your own thoughts on topics related to your business.
3. Feature links to insightful articles and include an explanation as to why they are valuable.
4. Be helpful; share some of your expertise to help build a positive reputation.
5. Ask questions to get feedback and invite discussion on industry topics.
6. Recommend other social media users –they will usually reciprocate your recommendation.
7. Hold a contest and publicise it across your social media profiles. Competitions can spread like wildfire across social networks.
8. Announce business updates, including links to new products or special features.
9. Link to your website content occasionally; too often might seem pushy, but this doesn't mean to say you cannot do it at all.
10. Link to rich media content, such as webcast presentations or videos that enhance your message.
11. Announce – and link to - the publication of your latest email newsletter.
12. Similarly, link to your latest blog post with a brief summary.
13. Post discount coupons and other deals exclusive to your social media audience.
14. Personalise your profile with your company logo and colours, and maybe even an image of yourself.
15. Think quality, not quantity. You don't need to be the most prolific participant to impress.
16. Don't be afraid to share some personality.
17. Pick up tips and tricks from other experts in your field.
18. Share links to your social media profile, or profiles from your website, newsletter and regular email signature.
19. Combine your content across multiple web platforms, including your website and social media profiles.
20. Identify the best times of day to engage with your target audience.

In conclusion, remember that whether you are tweeting, poking or tagging, be yourself and enjoy participating in the social conversation. If you would like help improving your social media marketing activities, if you would like to find out more contact us.