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A few weeks ago, we discussed how to get the most out of social media and why it may not be working for you.
If you’re trying to get started with social media marketing, you may be wondering what tool to choose.
Is there a “best” social media marketing tool for freelance writers?
Well, that answer is complicated.
I’d have to say the answer is yes…and no.
Yes, there is a best social media marketing tool for you. But no, there is not a one size fits all ideal social media marketing tool for all freelance writers.
That’s good news, though. There’s no one ideal tool because we’re all different and also because social media success isn’t necessarily based on the particular tool that you use, but rather on how you use that tool.
Social Media Tools I have Used
Personally, I’ve used a wide variety social media marketing tools including:
- StumbleUpon
And more recently, I’ve started with Quora and Amplify.
Of these tools, I personally enjoy using Twitter the most and I’ve enjoyed using Facebook (for business use) the least. Of course, it’s really too early for me to tell how things will work out with Quora and Amplify, since I basically just started using them a few weeks ago.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Choosing a Social Media Tool
Are you unsure of which social media tool to use? Here are two questions to help you determine which social media tool is the best fit for you:
- Will I enjoy using this tool?
- Are any of my prospects or clients using this tool?
It’s really that simple!
If you don’t enjoy using a particular tool, you probably won’t use it and that means it’s the wrong tool for you. Plus, you should try to be where your clients are. So, if you learn that most of your clients are on Quora (for example), you may want to consider establishing a presence there.
How did you decide what social media tool to use? What is your favorite social media tool?
8 responses so far ↓
1 Twitter Trackbacks for What is the Best Social Media Tool for Freelance Writers? : WritingThoughts [writingthoughts.com] on Topsy.com // Feb 8, 2011 at
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2 John Soares // Feb 9, 2011 at
Laura, I really like your two questions. I’d add a 3rd:
3. Will I get a good return on the investment of my time spent using this tool?
Over the last week I’ve been increasing my connections on LinkedIn and learning more about how to make the best use of it. Many of my existing and potential clients are on there (I’m a freelance writer for college textbook publishers), so it just makes sense right now.
I’m also fairly active on Twitter, but find it a bit chaotic. I use Facebook primarily for friends and family and hobbies.
3 Laura Spencer // Feb 9, 2011 at
Hi John,
Great addition! You won’t get much of a return if your clients and prospects aren’t there. Thanks for your comment.
I probably should also add a warning about budgeting your social media tool time. Some of them can be quite addictive and your returns diminish if you spend too much time (as in all day) there. The trick is to be active, but not let the tool suck up all your time.
4 John Soares // Feb 9, 2011 at
Hear, hear on managing time on social media. Twitter especially can be a huge time suck.
5 Laura Spencer // Feb 9, 2011 at
John–Well, I think they all can be. I’ve heard of a people wasting a lot of time on Facebook too. 🙂
6 Chris // Feb 10, 2011 at
Hi
I am an active facebook user and use my facebook status to let all my friends and family know when I have posted a new blog entry. I do encourage my faithful crowd to subscribe to my blog and have added a few subscribers. I think regardless of what social media you peruse, it takes time and dedication to gain a following.
7 The 5 Characteristics of Successful Bloggers // Feb 11, 2011 at
[…] were helpful. From design bloggers to freelance writers, bloggers who did their best to anticipate problems and offers solutions to their readers scored […]
8 Laura Spencer // Feb 11, 2011 at
Thanks Chris!
You’re right. It does take dedication. A lot people think that it just happens, but you do have to work at it and stick with it.