On February 15, 2013, online marketing firm fishbat responds to an article posted on Social Media Explorer that detailed common mistakes that several leading businesses make in their social media strategy.

According to the Social Media Explorer article, mistakes made by businesses include not taking social media seriously to omitting a social media plan. One of the biggest mistakes reported is that businesses neglect their social media plans. Most businesses have no idea what to say in posts, what their tone is going to be, or who will manage their online presence. A good ROI (return of investment) is stressed, but achieving positive ROI depends on a business having clear goals and resources devoted to them.

The article also emphasizes the importance of content strategy. A business must have a constant stream of “interesting, relevant and valuable content” that relates to your audience. Too little or irrelevant content will disrupt the relationship building process with a potential customer. In addition, businesses often forget to include the human element. The article states that people should be treated the same whether it is in the real or virtual world. What a business says and how a message is delivered, claims the article, is part of a brand’s image.

Justin Maas, Vice President of Client Relations at the online marketing firm fishbat, offered his comments about strengthening social media strategy. “When engaging social media, it is very important to establish a good rapport between yourself and your customers,” states Maas. “If a relationship is not tended to, your brand may suffer from lack of recognition or support. Treat your customers how you treat your friends and family. Know what they are looking for, and deliver tenfold.”

fishbat, Inc. is a full service online marketing firm. Through social media management, search engine optimization (SEO), web design, and public relations, fishbat strives as a marketing firm to raise awareness about your brand and strengthen your corporate image.