1. 5 Things Facebook Must Do To Be Really Useful
By David Nour
Louie Bernstein, CEO of MindIQ forwarded this blog posting from Alex Wolfe awolfe@cmp.com at
InformationWeek:
So Mark Zuckerberg was telling the audience at the Web 2.0 Summit the other day how he’s going to double
Facebook’s workforce, presumably to broaden its appeal beyond its 47-million current users. (What, all those
students and on-the-job time-wasters aren’t enough?) Here’s an idea for you, Mark: Make Facebook into a truly
useful tool, one where you can do more than just post pictures and ping people you’re already in contact with
anyway.
I’m not going to natter on about Facebook’s current pluses and minuses. We all know it’s enticing, yet I defy
anyone to explain exactly why. Also, if you’re like me, you spend far too much time on the site, with diminishing
returns for each successive session. True, Facebook does allow you to glom onto a wealth of third-party
applications, and bring them into your page. So it’s not fair to slam the site for a dearth of apps. However, if you’re
a casual user like I am, you can’t find these things. All of the apps I’ve come across are ones which my Facebook
friends have roped me into.
OK, so here are my prescriptions for what Facebook needs to do to morph from a cool meeting place, which is hot
today but could easily becoming passe within a year, to a site that’s the killer social-networking app on the Web.
1) Drag and drop onto your page. Currently, the process for accessing apps is confusing and cumbersome. Why not
adopt a paradigm that allows users to freely configure their Facebook pages, and effectively turn them into their
own personal Web sites?
2) Make it completely — not almost — open to third-party apps. As Zuckerberg admitted at the Web 2.0 Summit,
while Facebook is open to third-party apps, it retains the right to drop any app from its platform. When this policy is
applied to malicious apps, it’s fine. But if you’re talking about an outside developer who’s poured his or her whole
company into improving Facebook, it’s not so good. Hey, this even means a Microsoft-type company could be cut
off. Either you’re open, or you’re not. Facebook should be open. That’s two recommendations. I’ve got three more
at my blog.
Top 10 Ways to Use Facebook to Promote your Business for Free
There are plenty of social media platforms that you can participate in today, and they all have their pros and cons.
The best way to choose a platform to participate in is to look at the people that hang out there. In my opinion,
Facebook is one of the best platforms for networking-both personally and professionally. I also use Linked In and
Twitter. Linked In is nice for having a more or less static professional profile online. Twitter is good for quot;blastingquot;
bits and pieces of news to friends and clients. The one social networking group I am not part of is MySpace. Privacy
controls are more lax at MySpace than I prefer. Of all the social networks, Facebook is the real gem when it comes
to all-round marketing and networking.
I have been using Facebook for the past two years, and it is an excellent marketing tool. Here are 10 ways you can
use Facebook to promote your business for FREE!
1

2. 1. Create an Excellent Profile- This is THE first step in utilizing Facebook efficiently. If you think of Facebook in
terms of a marketing campaign, your profile page can be considered your quot;brand.quot; Here is my profile. A strong
profile should include: a professional picture (please resist the urge to put up pictures of yourself in this year’s
Halloween costume-unless of course that is part of your brand), your contact information, your website address, and
your personal interests. You don’t have to list out all your personal interests-you can stick to listing just you
professional interests if you prefer.
2. Add Friends- This is what makes Facebook really special-the relationships it allows you to build and sustain. The
more friends you have, the more affective your marketing and networking efforts will be. The most simple way to
add friends is to use Facebook’s own tools to search for current friends already using the platform. Once you have
added all current friends, you can start adding acquaintances. One unique feature of Facebook is that is allows you
to look at friends of friends. You can build up a huge network this way in no time.
3. Join Groups- You can join online groups within Facebook that are related to what you do. There are groups for
consultants, coaches, and trainers…almost all professional service providers have some type of an online group. I
am part of many marketing groups and have made quite a few contacts that way. So, find a few groups that suit your
tastes and get to mingling!
4. Create your Own Group- Can’t find a group that really fits your style-create your own! You can add members,
publish articles, carry on discussions, and probably meet quite a few prospects.
5. List your Events- Hosting a Teleseminar or speaking somewhere? Create an events page and invite all those you
want. You can even see how many RSVP and get feedback from attendees. Marketing doesn’t get easier (or
cheaper!) than this.
6. Syndicate your Blog- You can syndicate your blog on your profile page. This basically means that every time you
make a post, it will automatically show up on your profile page. More Exposure = More Readers = More Potential
Leads.
7. Reach OUT! – Are you a fan or admirer of someone’s work? Reach out to them on Facebook! Many colleagues
of mine check their Facebook messages more regularly than their email. They are also more likely to respond to
Facebook messages. Don’t feel comfortable sending out a message to someone you don’t know? No worries! Leave
them a “I enjoy your work!” blurb on their wall. (All profiles come with “virtual walls” where friends and
acquaintances can leave comments.)
8. Send Virtual Gifts- Want to show your appreciation for someone? Send them a virtual gift. You can choose from
a bunch of balloons to a potted plant that actually sits on the recipient’s profile and grows over time (my favorite).
9. Use the Marketplace- Facebook has an online marketplace that allows you to list your services and products for
free. This is a great way to gain exposure. You can also list certain things you are looking for. I often find some
great books through the Marketplace.
10. Create a Community- Perhaps Facebook’s greatest benefit is that it allows you to create a community. It
provides you a group of people who are constantly connected to you, and are open to hearing your message. Write
on people’s walls, respond to their comments, and introduce them to each other. So…start building your brand and
leveraging social media networks for marketing!
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2

3. This entry was posted on Sunday, November 18th, 2007 at 3:35 pm and is filed under Marketing Tools for Your
Service Business, Marketing Your Business, Social Media Marketing. You can follow any responses to this entry
through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site.
« Dear Shama…Help! I Hate Selling
The Number#1 Key to Marketing Successfully On Facebook…Or Anywhere Else »
27 Responses to “Top 10 Ways to Use Facebook to Promote your Business for Free”
1.
Mike Zeuthen Says:
November 18th, 2007 at 6:17 pm
This is the best way to promote your business on Facebook. Then use Facebook ads to advertise your business to
your target audience.
http://apps.facebook.com/businesstwo/
Business 3.0.
2.
Michael Bailey Says:
November 19th, 2007 at 7:37 pm
Great list, and you are right, it does go well with my Social Networking Whitepaper.
I have some other thoughts as well which I need to get out of my head - I think putting them out here for others
is a great thing to do.
3.
Dutto Relaciones Públicas | Archivo: » 10 maneras de promocionar tu negocio usando Facebook Says:
November 26th, 2007 at 7:01 am
[...] After the Launch nos señalan10 formas de usar Facebook para promocionar [...]
4.
Internet Marketing Best Blog Posts of 2007 » techipedia | tamar weinberg Says:
December 26th, 2007 at 8:01 am
[...] 10 Ways to Use Facebook to Promote Your Business for Free (After the Launch): How do you promote
your business on Facebook? Easy. [...]
5.
SpinningSilk Multimedia - web design, print, portable media - Greenville,SC Says:
December 29th, 2007 at 4:40 pm
[...] At the close of the year you will find all kind of web site and blog tell you about the “best of” for the year
closing. One of the sites I frequently visit and subscribe to is Problogger.net . One a recent post the author posed the
question, What was your most popular post in 2007? I left a response myself that my most popular post (In terms of
comments and visits) was one called, The Power of real conversation in marketing your business. Interestingly
enough I read what some others stated as their most popular post and they seem to have a fairly similar theme to my
most popular post. One was called, Top Bloggers Reveal How To Build Traffic Offline Without Spending A Dime
and the other one I felt needed a mention was Top 10 Ways to Use Facebook to Promote Your Business for Free.
[...]
6.
linkerjpatrick Says:
3

4. December 29th, 2007 at 4:42 pm
Great tips. I have give a link to this post on my own blog for the benefit of my own clients. It’s great to see that
some are recognizing social networks as being valuable and far from frivolous.
7.
Dallas Internet Marketing Firm | Outsource Marketing & Consulting Services - After The Launch Says:
December 29th, 2007 at 5:46 pm
[...] 7. Find one social network and participate in it fully- Sure, you may belong to LinkedIn, Facebook,
MySpace, Twitter, and some other networks whose name you cannot pronounce. But, are they really helping your
business? This year choose one platform and work on creating your brand awareness. I recommend Facebook. Want
to know how to market your business on Facebook? Check out this article-Ten Ways to Use Facebook to Market
your Business. [...]
8.
Ranking Social Networking Sites: Which Ones Make the Cut?
By: Shama Hyder
Fellow blogger and reader, Mark Salinas, asked this question:
“I have yet to explore the world of Facebook or Myspace for that matter. I guess with so many different avenues or
options if you will…..what are the advantages of Facebook vs. any other? Does it have a stronger presence with
Google, is an easier interface to navigate through, is the infrastructure reliable (unlike Twitter)?”
Mark-Thank you for the fantastic questions. These questions keep coming up in my presentations and speaking
engagements as well.They have lead to this article!
LinkedIn- ***
Pros: A professional crowd, great place to get and give recommendations, allows for an interactive online resume.
Cons: Too static-can’t make out a person’s personality, can’t reach out with ease, level of interaction between
members is fairly low.
How to Use it: LinkedIn gets 3 stars. Not a great marketing or relationship building tool. Use it to build a
“professional resume” online and get feedback from colleagues, clients, and bosses. Spend no more than 30 minutes
a month.
MySpace- **
Pros: Well established, huge number of users, flexible.
4

5. Cons: Lot of musicians, kids, and hippies (okay, so that’s an exaggeration and not necessarily a con-but it’s not a
perfect B2B market.) Lax security. My inkling is that most users are looking for relationships-and not to network for
business reasons.
How to Use it: 2 stars here. Use it ONLY if 1) you already have a profile, etc. 2) Your target market uses MySpace.
Don’t use it if you are in the B2B market or need to target professionals. If you do use it, make sure your profile is
very professional and shows no signs that you are looking for more (read: romance)…unless, ofcourse, you are.
Twitter- **
Pros: Easy to setup and use, lots of marketers and PR folks use it
Cons: Experiences lots of down time, can be addictive
How to Use it: 2 stars here. Setup a profile, and follow people you care to listen to and share with. Write a new blog
post? Hosting an event? Share it on Twitter. Just don’t spend more than 15 minutes a day on it.
Facebook- ****
Pros: Flexible, clean interface, lots of applications, easy to interact, build community and market
Cons: Spammers are now catching on to the coolness of Facebook, applications that you wish were never created
(i.e., buy your friends, virtual zombie bites…this list is long).
How to Use it: Definite 4 stars! Setup a profile that conveys your brand. Add friends. Network. Find JV partners.
Build community. Read: Top 10 Ways to Use Facebook to Market your Business for Free.
ShareThis
This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 1st, 2008 at 4:07 pm and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this
entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
« A Most Intriguing Conversation about Facebook
3 Responses to “Ranking Social Networking Sites: Which Ones Make the Cut?”
1. Steve Munroe Says:
July 1st, 2008 at 6:36 pm
Nice summary of the most visible SN tools out there. I agree with your assessment of Linked-In, it’s way to
static.
Twitter is ok, but it marketing value is questionable. With Summise (http://summize.com/) I wonder if there
might not be an opportunity to slip in occasional thread related ads…? to increase it’s marketing potential.
Facebook is my SN tool of choice. it does have it’s problems (i.e. the annoying add friend apps) but it does
seem to be settling down onto an ok advertising strategy. The contextualised ads on the left, under the search
and app list works fairly well.
Regards,
5

6. Steve @ http://www.worklifeinnovation.com/blog
2. Elizabeth Marshall Says:
July 2nd, 2008 at 11:01 am
Shama,
Great post! I tend to agree with your rankings. Here’s my take:
LinkedIn is a must have, but is not the place where entrepreneurs will get the most traction.
Twitter was cool and useful..until it kept going down and experiencing so many technical issues. I haven’t
given up on it yet, but I am not going to invest more time until they fix the tech issues.
MySpace - Too hard to maintain your professionalism and your brand. Unless you are a musician or a band
that needs the youth to spread your message.
Facebook - what can I say? It rocks! Seriously, I can document many examples of new connections, new
opportunities and new clients that have resulted from the time I spend there. I give it 5 out of 4 stars.
Keep up the great work!
Elizabeth
3. Jay Ehret Says:
July 3rd, 2008 at 1:43 pm
Shama, I give LinkedIn a little more credit. The past week I’ve been involved in my LinkedIn project,
contacting all Age of Conversation II authors and inviting them to my LinkedIn network.
I have made several new personal communications, received a couple of blog links, and have some new
possible business connections. In fact, I found your blog because you accepted my LinkedIn invitation.
Thanks for the great analysis.
The Number#1 Key to Marketing Successfully On Facebook…Or
Anywhere Else
6

7. No Man’s Blog has a great post about the top Facebook applications.
All the Facebook applications have been divided into three main categories-
Identity formation - 43%
Phatic Communication - 37%
Other - 20%
Identity Formation Applications are applications that relate to one’s self: personality quizzes, movies I like,
horoscope applications, favorite quotes, etc. This is good proof that people use social networks mainly to reinforce
and extend their identity. Social networking isn’t about friends first. It is first and foremost about defining and
solidifying who we are. Then, it is about building our network. The keyword is OUR.
Here is a visual that may help define how Social Networking really works:
What does this mean for us when trying to market through social networks?
1) Focus on the People- People still don’t care about what you have to offer. They care about what they can GAIN
from that offering. How can you HELP THEM? That is the constant question to be asking yourself when marketing
online. And you know why? Because, that is the same question your target market keeps asking themselves. What’s
in it for me?
2) Appeal to their Sense of Identity- Instead of placing an ad in a small box on the page, get people involved!
Create a quiz they can take. This is why Cosmo and Marie Claire magazines continue to use quizzes in their
magazine. Not only that-they advertise the mini-quiz on their front cover. They realize that people don’t buy the
magazine because they want to flip through ads. They buy it because it enforces their sense of identity. The
magazine is an extension of their identity. How can you frame your business as an extension of your target market’s
identity? The biggest brands out there know how to do this. People will vehemently argue which brand tastes better-
7

8. Coca Cola or Pepsi. It defines them in a way. After The Launch clients often come to us because we know how to
create the connection between people’s identities and a certain brand using marketing.
3) Focus on Creating a Community- The first step in social networking is establishing an identity. The final step is
being part of a community. If you use social media sites to spam network, it will backfire. People don’t like being
associated with anything they didn’t CHOOSE to be associated with. Instead, use social media sites to share
information, listen, comment, and build relationships. If you focus on creating a community, you will not only
establish your brand, but you will also create a network that WANTS to hear your message. This is the best outcome
any marketer can ever dream of.
Facebook – The New Face of Business
By Chris Kauza
Technology Editor
According to Forrester Research, Facebook is the closest and fastest growing competitor to MySpace, with more
than 60 Million active users (January, 2008). Earlier this year, Forrester predicted it will have the same number of
users as MySpace by early 2009. OOPS! Somebody forgot to update the memo...
Who are Facebook users?
more than half of them are past college, with their average age being 25 years old or older
•
Facebook is the 6th. most visited site in the U.S., with more than 65 Billion page views a month
•
half of all active users return to it daily, spending an average of 20 minutes or more on the site.
•
Impressive, but can Facebook really help you be a more effective networker? It depends on your purpose...
I see Facebook and LinkedIn as two social networking platforms that should be integral to all of your professional
networking. They help establish your credibility as a networker, and also serve as a platform to help others get to
know you better – whether before or after an in-person meeting. It's fairly quick and easy to set up your profile, and
you can be as active or passive with these as you like, and still receive lasting benefit.
I have also found the Facebook groups to be more active, interesting and diverse – yet focused at the same time;
think of it as an example of “Long-Tail Economics”. You can be focused on your niche and simultaneously exposed
to a global community. Granted, there is still the issue of what is and is not relevant information to you, but
Facebook's platform seems to be more effective at helping users sort this out than MySpace.
As with LinkedIn, I have used Facebook to reach out to people and build new networking relationships. I have not
only expanded my circle of influence online in these communities, but I have also been able to expand my
knowledge and expertise as well; some examples:
I have added an application that will help me learn Chinese
•
joined groups that give me travel tips on various cities I have (or will) visit
•
reconnected with old friends (reconnected with two high school friends in the last two weeks)
•
I am able to “see what my friends are up to” with the real-time status updates & integrated online chat
•
functions
8

9. I can be as professional as (and simultaneously a little more personal than) I am on LinkedIn. For example, I
originally started out on Facebook as I did on LinkedIn page – open only to people I knew really well. But after
joining a few groups and starting to expand my network, I started meeting new peopleand seeing a more powerful
web application emerge.
One example of how I am using Facbook to promote a business organization and relationship creation, is through
my work with a new non-profit that uses Facebook as a cornerstone in our Marketing plans. If you look at the Board
Members page, you will notice that each of us has tiny little buttons under our pictures, leading you to our profiles
on other social networking sites. This makes it easier for people to find out more about us, and thus promote better
connections. Think of it as the electronic equivalent of being in a meeting room, wearing a name badge, extending
your hand to someone nearby and introducing yourself. In most cases, the person will reciprocate and an interesting
relationship can be created.
I think the Groups function on Facebook is one of its strongest networking features, and we will discuss that further
in a future issue. For now, establish your profile on Facebook and take a look at who else you know is already on
there (you may be surprised!). You can find me there – feel free to “add me as a friend” (Mention The National
Networker in the invite). The National Networker fan page is there - you can become a fan by clicking here. Check
out some of the other groups available for you to join. Don't find one that suits you? Create your own and tell me
about it – we may profile you in an upcoming issue!
In the meantime, if you have questions about these or other technologies, feel free to email me at
ckauza@soltusgroup.com or to connect with me on LinkedIn.
____________________________________________________________________
Posted to THE NATIONAL NETWORKER. To subscribe for your free newletter, go to
www.TheNationalNetworker.com. For the complete National Networker Relationship Capital Toolkit and a free
RSS feed, go to: http://thenationalnetworkerweblog.blogspot.com.
Posted by AJKovitz at 10:02 AM
Why Social Media will NEVER Work for You
January 7th, 2009
Because social media doesn’t “work.”
You work IT. Or, you don’t. It’s a choice.
Every time I speak, inevitably someone will assert: “I have been on Facebook and Tweeter (Twitter) for a while but
it hasn’t gotten me any business.”
And I have to think, “it” hasn’t gotten you business. What does “it” have to do with anything? “It” serves 150
million people (the number of users Facebook reached today), and you expect it to focus on you?
Frankly I am a little tired of people expecting social media to work. It doesn’t. You DO! You have the ability to
connect with 150 million people on Facebook ALONE. What do you do with this ability?
9

10. Think of Facebook and Twitter and Linked-In as coffee shops. Just coffee shops teeming with people and no
limitation on physical space. Oh ya, you have to bring your own coffee. No big deal. Everyday people come to this
coffee shop to do their thing (write notes, relax, connect with others). They DON’T come there to listen to sales
pitches, but they ARE opening to learning new things and making new friends.
If you came to this coffee shop everyday and left each day saying the coffe shop doesn’t get me business, what are
you really saying?
So, perhaps a MUCH better question is: How do I WORK social media? And how do I work it correctly?
I am working on answering this, not as a blog post, but as a book. Keep your eyes open.
You’re Action Check List-
By: Shama Hyder
In the academic world, there is a saying: Publish or Perish. You either get known for your research or
you...well...perish. That's what this year is going to be like. You can either give it all you got, or you can sit on the
sidelines.
That being said...here is your checklist for 2009!
1. A Well Functioning Website: This doesn't just mean that buttons take you to the right page. I am talking a
website that FUNCTIONS as an online marketing tool. I can't say this enough: Your website is your
GREATEST online marketing tool. It should be. It is the best investment you can (and should) make. If you
have this in place, awesome! If not, create a plan to get it there.
2. A Traffic Generating Strategy: Pick 2 techniques to drive traffic to your site. You can do more than 2, but I'd
rather you picked 2 and stuck to them! You can drive traffic using social media, search engine optimization, or any
other way you choose.
3. A Social Media Presence: If you didn't do anything with social media in 08, you need to start in 09. There is no
getting around this. Pick at least 2 social media networks and setup your presence- if that's the least you can do! If
you don't do this now, you will regret it in 2011.
4. A Content Strategy: Whether you write a blog, a newsletter, or just have some articles on your site. You need to
have a content strategy in place. This year will FORCE you to educate your market. The buyers who used to say,
quot;sure, why not?quot; will now be more inclined to explore their options. Be ready with your reasons!
5. Bonuses: Little touches will take you far in 09. If you sell dog food, add a treat to every order. If you sell a web
design service, throw in a 30 minute training session. Decide now what you want the bonuses to be. Then, let the
word spread!
6. Support Network in Place: Teams get more done! If you have employees, make sure they understand the
company goals for 2009 and the role they are meant to play. If you are a solopreneur, make sure you have a list of
quot;go-toquot; people for your needs. Create a resource list of people you MAY need. Do this now, before you actually
need their services. Example: Virtual Assistant, Technical Support Genius, Web Designer.
7. Business Budget Set: Decide how much you will invest back into your business. (You know you have to do this
right?). Set your budget now. This includes business books, conferences, e-products, etc. If you set a budget, you
won't feel inclined to buy everything that comes your way.
Alright! Let's make this year our best year yet.
WANT TO SEE MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS ONE?
See Shama's Marketing Blog.
10

11. WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this
complete blurb with it: Online marketing expert, Shama Hyder, publishes the praise winning 'Online Marketing
Tips' weekly eZine with subscribers around the world. If you're ready to start leveraging the internet to grow
your revenues, get your F'REE tips now at www.ClickToClient.com
Which Social Media Network Are You? A Quiz.
January 3rd, 2009 10
1. You started developing your REAL personality in..
a. Highschool. Didn’t everyone?
b. College was when it all started to come together…
c. Not until I started working. That’s when I got to know my real self.
d. It’s a journey! It’s a journey!
2. Your life is …
a. An open book.
b. All about the relationships!
c. Work.
d. Box of chocolates, or wait…is it a bouquet of flowers?
3. Your favorite subject in school was …
a. Art and Music.
b. English
c. Math and Science
d. Cafeteria. Lunch time! Also whatever I was in the mood for that year.
4. Your room is best described as…
a. A canvas that reflects my soul.
b. Covered with pictures, momentos, and notes.
c. Minimalistic.
d. Depends on what day it is. Monday-super clean, Tuesday- craft day, Wednesday- lost socks…
5. Your ideal night out is…
a. Listening to the hottest live band in town.
b. A dinner and movie with close friends.
c. Dinner at home, followed by a book.
d. A party with my 1000 closest friends.
Mostly A’s: MySpace: You bloomed early. You aren’t shy, like live music, and need outlets for your creativity.
11

12. Mostly B’s: Facebook: You are growing fast! You have made your share of mistakes but continue to learn and
grow. You probably love taking and sharing pictures. The relationships in your life are key.
Mostly C’s: Linked-In: Work is worship. Your work defines you, and you are constantly looking at climbing the
ladder. Ambitious and smart, just be careful not to close yourself off.
Mostly D’s: Twitter: Here today, there tomorrow. You know how to roll with the punches, go with the flow, etc.
And, you don’t mind holding 10 conversations at once. Overall a jolly person. More the merrier right?
Auto Responding on Twitter: A Do or Don’t?
December 29th, 2008 7
There is a hot discussion going on down at Chris Brogan’s blog. Chris argues that social media is no place for
robotic behavior. I agree. Being a valuable human being is important in life and social media…go figure.
Specifically, he expresses his loathing for auto responders like Tweet Later which allow one to automate messages
to their followers. And looking at his comments, it seems like many agree with him. Lots of Amens. While I deeply
respect Chris and 99.9% of the time agree (vigorous head nodding and all) with him. This time, I disagree.
Like all tools, I think auto responders have a place. They can be used intelligently and with good intentions OR
they can be used as tools to spam people. It’s about the choice isn’t it?
Auto responders are akin to wearing bright colors in fashion. Done right, it is a definite do. Done wrong and it’s a
major fashion disaster.
I use Tweet Later to do a few things…
1) Automatically follow anyone who follows me. Why not? If you can take the time to follow my tweets, why
can’t I do the same? By following me, you show me a sense of trust and respect. I appreciate it that, which is why I
use it to…
2) Thank you. Yes, I do automate my gratitude. What’s wrong with that? I am GENUINELY grateful when
someone decides to follow me. They have chosen to give me the time of their day. Whether it’s a second, a minute,
or an hour. I am honored. When my entire family calls me at midnight on my birthday, I email them ALL in the
morning thanking them for their love and thoughtfulness. No one minds. I am sincerely grateful.
3) Provide a link to my about Shama page. NOT a sales page. The most COMMON direct message I get from
new followers is: So, what do you do? Or, tell me about yourself. Can I do this in 140 characters? Ummm..I can try.
But, a link is more efficient and a fairer answer. I don’t make money when people click. This is also a sincere form
of sharing.
My feeling is that when someone says they HATE receiving automated messages, they are really saying they
hate not being acknowledged as an individual. And I think, herein lies the culprit. We judge intentions.
Automated Message (same content) = You don’t care about me! You are only trying to spam me!
12

13. Personal Message (same content) = Ah, you do see me as a person!
So, is TIME how we measure intentions now? If I take the time to personally write out the same message I could
have automated, it some how becomes more valuable? And valuable ENOUGH to you to justify hours of my time?
Because, if I reply to you, I want to make sure I reply to all.
I don’t get offended when someone I follow says thank you. Perhaps I am too optimistic in my approach to life,
but I like to believe in people’s innocence and good intentions until proven guilty. Spam me, and you WILL irk me.
I think there is a fine line between disrespecting someone (spamming them with innane links or continuous
irrelevant questions) and using auto responders to share something worthwhile.
And with that ladies and gentlemen, I must conclude that auto responders are indeed a DO. But you must be
careful not to abuse the tools.
How to Create a Fail-Proof Online Product
By: Shama Hyder
I am usually not a huge fan of the traditional “internet gurus” because often their message feels hype-filled to me. I
have found very FEW actually deliver on their promises.
However, I ran into some great video by Eben Pagan the other day. Just 45 minutes of very good online marketing
advice. No pushy sales pitches. If you like, you can see the video here.
My favorite part of the video was when he gave advice on how to create a fail-proof online product. Or at least
shared how to dramatically increase its chances of being successful. Now, here is a guy who has done TONS of
product launches, so he knows what he is taking about.
Here are his 3 recommended questions to ask yourself plus my 2-bit.
1. Is there an irrational desire or urgent pain? Before you create (or worse…launch) your product, ask yourself
this question. Does your product solve an URGENT pain or fulfill an irrational desire? Eben shares the example of
video games. They don’t always make sense, but there are PLENTY of video game fanatics out there.
I’d say that Tim Ferris’ book, The 4 Hour Work Week, did a good job of capitalizing on an irrational desire. People
want to work less and earn more. That’s an irrational desire. The social media marketing eBook I am madly
working on these days will aim to solve an urgent pain for anyone who is frustrated with how to make the most of
social media sites from a business perspective. Does your product solve an urgent pain or feed an irrational desire?
2. Are your prospects ACTIVELY looking for a solution? I see a LOT of people make this mistake when they
start out in the online world. Let’s say that “Sam” starts a social media site because he sees how successful
Facebook and Linked-In are. But, what would compel people to join his site? Unless he has a VERY unique angle
that people are craving, the venture will fail. Because people aren’t actively looking for one more social media site
to join.
Or, let’s take “Jane’s” example. Jane decides to sell shoe polish online. But, what if no one is looking?Creating
desire for a product is MUCH harder than catering to a current demand.
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14. How do you determine demand? By using keyword search tools to see what people are searching for, and how
many times a keyword or phrase is being searched for. A good tool in this case is Word Tracker. Another good tool
that just came to market is Market Samurai. (I just got it yesterday, so I am still playing with it. So far, so great!).
3. Does your prospect have NO or very FEW perceived options? In other words, are you playing in a blue ocean
or a red ocean? A red ocean is a metaphor for a niche that’s filled with blood-thirsty sharks. There is just TOO much
competition. A circus is a good example of a red ocean. Too many entertainment choices are really drawing crowds
away from what used to be the ONLY American form of live entertainment-the circus.
A blue ocean is where you create your own category. Cirque Du Soleil created a NEW category. They combined
circus theatrics with classical music. They turned the circus into an art form. They are no competitors, because you
have managed to differentiate yourself so brilliantly. By the way, I HIGHLY recommend you read Blue Ocean
Strategy once in your lifetime. It’s a classic and contains many more examples of blue ocean categories.
So, what are your thoughts on online products?
Top 10 Ways to Use Facebook to Promote your Business for Free
November 18th, 2007
There are plenty of social media platforms that you can participate in today, and they all have their pros and cons.
The best way to choose a platform to participate in is to look at the people that hang out there. In my opinion,
Facebook is one of the best platforms for networking-both personally and professionally. I also use Linked In and
Twitter. Linked In is nice for having a more or less static professional profile online. Twitter is good for “blasting”
bits and pieces of news to friends and clients. The one social networking group I am not part of is MySpace. Privacy
controls are more lax at MySpace than I prefer. Of all the social networks, Facebook is the real gem when it comes
to all-round marketing and networking.
I have been using Facebook for the past two years, and it is an excellent marketing tool. Here are 10 ways you can
use Facebook to promote your business for FREE!
1. Create an Excellent Profile- This is THE first step in utilizing Facebook efficiently. If you think of
Facebook in terms of a marketing campaign, your profile page can be considered your “brand.” Here is my
profile. A strong profile should include: a professional picture (please resist the urge to put up pictures of
yourself in this year’s Halloween costume-unless of course that is part of your brand), your contact information,
your website address, and your personal interests. You don’t have to list out all your personal interests-you can
stick to listing just you professional interests if you prefer.
2. Add Friends- This is what makes Facebook really special-the relationships it allows you to build and sustain.
The more friends you have, the more affective your marketing and networking efforts will be. The most simple
way to add friends is to use Facebook’s own tools to search for current friends already using the platform. Once
you have added all current friends, you can start adding acquaintances. One unique feature of Facebook is that is
allows you to look at friends of friends. You can build up a huge network this way in no time.
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15. 3. Join Groups- You can join online groups within Facebook that are related to what you do. There are groups
for consultants, coaches, and trainers…almost all professional service providers have some type of an online
group. I am part of many marketing groups and have made quite a few contacts that way. So, find a few groups
that suit your tastes and get to mingling!
4. Create your Own Group- Can’t find a group that really fits your style-create your own! You can add
members, publish articles, carry on discussions, and probably meet quite a few prospects.
5. List your Events- Hosting a Teleseminar or speaking somewhere? Create an events page and invite all those
you want. You can even see how many RSVP and get feedback from attendees. Marketing doesn’t get easier (or
cheaper!) than this.
6. Syndicate your Blog- You can syndicate your blog on your profile page. This basically means that every
time you make a post, it will automatically show up on your profile page. More Exposure = More Readers =
More Potential Leads.
7. Reach OUT! – Are you a fan or admirer of someone’s work? Reach out to them on Facebook! Many
colleagues of mine check their Facebook messages more regularly than their email. They are also more likely to
respond to Facebook messages. Don’t feel comfortable sending out a message to someone you don’t know? No
worries! Leave them a “I enjoy your work!” blurb on their wall. (All profiles come with “virtual walls” where
friends and acquaintances can leave comments.)
8. Send Virtual Gifts- Want to show your appreciation for someone? Send them a virtual gift. You can choose
from a bunch of balloons to a potted plant that actually sits on the recipient’s profile and grows over time (my
favorite).
9. Use the Marketplace- Facebook has an online marketplace that allows you to list your services and products
for free. This is a great way to gain exposure. You can also list certain things you are looking for. I often find
some great books through the Marketplace.
10. Create a Community- Perhaps Facebook’s greatest benefit is that it allows you to create a community. It
provides you a group of people who are constantly connected to you, and are open to hearing your message.
Write on people’s walls, respond to their comments, and introduce them to each other. So…start building your
brand and leveraging social media networks for marketing!
Which Social Media Network Are You? A Quiz.
January 3rd, 2009 10
1. You started developing your REAL personality in..
a. Highschool. Didn’t everyone?
b. College was when it all started to come together…
c. Not until I started working. That’s when I got to know my real self.
d. It’s a journey! It’s a journey!
2. Your life is …
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16. a. An open book.
b. All about the relationships!
c. Work.
d. Box of chocolates, or wait…is it a bouquet of flowers?
3. Your favorite subject in school was …
a. Art and Music.
b. English
c. Math and Science
d. Cafeteria. Lunch time! Also whatever I was in the mood for that year.
4. Your room is best described as…
a. A canvas that reflects my soul.
b. Covered with pictures, momentos, and notes.
c. Minimalistic.
d. Depends on what day it is. Monday-super clean, Tuesday- craft day, Wednesday- lost socks…
5. Your ideal night out is…
a. Listening to the hottest live band in town.
b. A dinner and movie with close friends.
c. Dinner at home, followed by a book.
d. A party with my 1000 closest friends.
Mostly A’s: MySpace: You bloomed early. You aren’t shy, like live music, and need outlets for your creativity.
Mostly B’s: Facebook: You are growing fast! You have made your share of mistakes but continue to learn and
grow. You probably love taking and sharing pictures. The relationships in your life are key.
Mostly C’s: Linked-In: Work is worship. Your work defines you, and you are constantly looking at climbing the
ladder. Ambitious and smart, just be careful not to close yourself off.
Mostly D’s: Twitter: Here today, there tomorrow. You know how to roll with the punches, go with the flow, etc.
And, you don’t mind holding 10 conversations at once. Overall a jolly person. More the merrier right?
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