Tools

The great thing about social media is that it’s always evolving, and most of the time it’s for the betterment of your marketing strategy. These changes (some simple, some BIG) will help you reach out to customers in the social media world more effectively.

We’ve got the simple changes, the upgrades and the just plain complicated (in simplified form, just for you). See what’s new in the world of social media that can help you today.

The Complicated—Facebook Home
Let’s start with the complicated. You’re probably thinking, “Facebook, Huh?” It’s okay, we’re wondering the same thing. Is it a phone? Nope. Is it an operating system? Try again. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg says Facebook Home is an application that turns android phones into a Facebook phone.

So what exactly does that mean?

It means people with the application will see Facebook news front and center without ever having to open an application. Facebook’s Chat will always be on so people can communicate with users that way. Plus, notifications from other social media sites will take a backseat to Facebook.

For you, it means your current social media presence should be evaluated. If you don’t have much emphasis on Facebook currently, it may be worth looking into increased emphasis.

The Simple—Facebook Direct Comments
It’s time to get personal—or at least more personal than you’ve been on Facebook. A simple and much needed upgrade to your Facebook profile now allows users to make a direct reply to a fan who has made a comment on your wall, photo or status.

In the past one of your fans could post a question or statement that needs a reply, but tons of people commented after it before you could respond. Now you can simply click ‘reply’ to that particular comment and the person will be notified. Facebook then puts your reply next to the original statement or question.

The change means better customer service and an easier way to connect with fans. Kudos to Facebook for implementing a change to make marketers lives easier.

The Upgrade—LinkedIn Mentions
At last, what Twitter and Facebook have already done we can now do with LinkedIn. The professional networking social media site has included direct mentions in its updates. If you have an article you know one of your clients would love or want them to see your post, simply type your connection’s name and select their profile. They’ll then be notified that you have content or a message just for them.

Use it to make sure you’re targeting the right people with your content, and ensuring that they see it. Again, the upgrade gives you the opportunity seek out specific people and make them feel special.