The questions abound with social media and marketing in a new communications environment.

How do I convince people that this is important?

How can I marry social media with my existing communication efforts?

How does this translate into sales?

How do I prove ROI?

How can we succeed with social media?

I have the answer for you. Are you ready for it?

Hard. Work.

Once again, I’ll say that social media isn’t an answer to your prayers. As Chris Penn so brilliantly said, it’s not a rescue for your failed business plan. It’s not a silver bullet or a pile of magic beans.

It’s strategic, focused work that requires research, preparation, internal education and training, careful selection of tools and tactics, a holistic business approach, and careful testing and analysis to figure out what’s appropriate for your business. There are challenges and risks. It takes time, resources, and commitment as well as a willingness to fail on occasion. It takes work, folks.

There are lots of talkers out there, telling you its as simple as “joining the conversation” or “connecting with your community”. And while those are important tenets of a successful social media-ready culture, it’s not enough to just say it.

The tactics will change, evolve, and adapt to your particular company, culture, and industry. But one fact will never change. There is no easy way or short cut. Social media deserves the same dedication you’d give any other important business decision, and you will absolutely reap what you sow.

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