There are so many misconceptions about Social Media when it comes to growing your business. The fact is, Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.) is the new way to engage your clients. If you don't embrace it, you will be leaving money on the table that your competitor will be more than happy to pick up. Additionally, if you go about implementing it haphazardly, that is exactly the kind of results you will get back.
Many seasoned business owners say "What happened to good old-fashioned networking and building relationships?" Well, this is networking Phone Number List and building relationships, only online instead of in person. So, instead of going to 4 in-person networking events next month, go to two really good ones and then take the time you would have used going to the other two and spend it on-line. It not only doesn't cost you anything, but it is also a saving in gasoline and the cost of a lunch...not to mention a money maker from the relationships you will be developing.
You want to be where your clients are and that is online. Log into forums that focus on your business, i.e., if you sell cars, go onto car forums; if you sell wigs, go onto forums that discuss thinning hair; if you sell beer, go onto beer/wine forums. Start by "listening in", answering questions, and offering advice. Never say "stop by my store or office and I will take care of you." People don't like it when you are pushy. They are looking for good advice for free. Set yourself up as the expert. You can list your website as part of your signature in case they want to find you. After a few visits to the forum, people will start to recognize your name and say "Hey, this person really knows his/her stuff. I am going to contact them."