Using Web 2.0 in business can be beneficial as it increases a company’s visibility and influence online through a broad range of media. Web 2.0 is generally made up of social networking, video- and image-sharing sites, web applications, and other online communities where participants can collaborate and interact with each other in real time. The best tips for using web 2.0 in business are spreading the network across diverse channels, setting up professional profiles, keeping a consistent message, and focusing on relationship marketing to build followers.
When considering the use of web 2.0 in business marketing activities, it’s important to diversify efforts by participating in many online communities. That means selecting the best performing web 2.0 sites and engaging others through healthy dialogue on topics pertaining to business objectives. Begin by building a corporate blog, sharing new informational posts, creating videos, and using web 2.0 applications to influence those who may potentially become loyal customers and fans.
In addition to using a diversified approach with web 2.0 in business, be sure to set up professional-looking online accounts and profiles wherever the company participates. Choose a business page or profile whenever possible, as opposed to a personal profile. Select the appropriate category or industry for the company for ease in searches. Use a corporate logo that projects the right image for the business. Be mindful that everything posted to the profiles reflects the company values to the rest of the world.
Web 2.0 in business can be used effectively to spread a focused message that meets the company’s objectives, whether it is just for sharing more information or trying to engage people online. Web 2.0 should not just be a platform for soliciting new sales. Instead, use web 2.0 in business to get people interested in the company, its goals and its value to the online community. Send out a consistent message and invite those who express interest a chance to learn more. By using this approach, rather than pitching sales online, web 2.0 can be an effective way to earn attention that is more positive.
Perhaps the best tip for a web 2.0 in business approach is to work on building relationships with others through all the online media tools that are available. Encourage people to follow web 2.0 accounts in all forms by providing an incentive to do so. Hold contests and other fun activities to get more people to become followers on web 2.0 channels. Ask people to share with their networks through web share applications imbedded in web 2.0 profiles. The more followers a web 2.0 profile generates, the larger the network of influence can be for a business to share a message online.