What the heck kind of heading is that you're asking. It's the shortened version of saying that if you're a small business owner or entrepreneur who isn't using social media, then you're missing out on a huge opportunity. I don't want to write yet another post talking about the benefits of social media, but the facts pretty much speak for themselves. 350+ million people are on Facebook, there are Twitter users with millions of followers and just about everyone I know (yes, even my mother is racking up Facebook users in the US - and she isn't even from this country) is using the Internet to seek information and make connections.
And you, Mr. or Mrs. Small Business Owner, all you need to do to bring new customers to your business is find a way to make a connection with some of those millions of people. How...you ask? Offer them information, answer some of the questions they might have for you, make them laugh, inspire them or just give them ideas on how to use your products or services. The possibilities are endless.
I spend most of my days trying to help big corporations find their social mojo, dealing with dozens of different product managers, stakeholders, bosses and one approval after the other. If you're big, it's really hard to do something in social media.
So, if you are a small business owner or entrepreneur with little or no budget but the ability to make decisions, then please make the decision to get smart about social media and use it to your advantage. The only thing that's hard about it is, is to get started.
My favourite business mentor kept reminding me that using social media is the way to go for my very, very small business. I reluctantly followed some of her suggestions, and am now having a ball, forming relationships with people I'd never otherwise get to meet ... and the work is starting to come. Yes, it's taken time and effort, but it's not required $$ outlay.
I love love love love love ... the small doggie photo.