When it comes to Internet marketing, many companies are still stuck in the ME phase, the web site is all about them, the social media campaign is all about them, their blog is about how wonderful they are, their youtube channel is all about them and their new factory, etc.  The Internet was actually created (Thanks Al Gore) to be a ‘place’ to exchange information.  People go online to seek information, to connect, to share, to shop, to learn. Is your company contributing to those who wish to learn? Are you adding value to the Internet? Are you helping to build the online community?

Here are a few pointers to help your company start sharing and contributing to a better Internet / Online world:

1.) Participate In Forums.
Find industry forums and share your insight into issues, challenges, etc. Offer solutions, offer white papers.

2.) Be Social.
Engage your prospects and clients via the various social media applications. Make it a mission to serve others through your online existence.  Dell Computer company has led the way with it’s social presence on Twitter. They began helping frustrated dell users by pointing them to the right place to get help.

3.) Blogging.
Blog about industry standards or how your clients can get the most out of your products / and / or services. No one really cares that much about the company picnic and what your IT department did to that poor watermelon.

4.) Your Web Site.
Your web site should be a useful education center that happens to sell your products or services.  Make it easy for folks to navigate, but more importantly, make it easy for people to get the information they are seeking rapidly.  An educated prospect or client makes for a much better client. A good example of educating clients can be seen on the AllState Insurance home page.  They are offering tips on how to shop for insurance, etc.  Useful information for the consumer before they buy.

5.) Videos.
Yes, it is true that a well done video can be a great Internet marketing tool, HOWEVER, a poorly done video can hurt you more than it can ever help you.  Try to avoid giving tours of your building (no one really cares.) Create a video that educates or stirs an emotion in your prospects or clients. For a great example of video marketing, be sure to check out the Blendtec YouTube channel

The key with any online presence is to make a contribution to the Internet society.  So, what will your company do to help build the Internet?

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