One of the best Frank Ocean covers.

You're not going to understand why I posted this video until you read my upcoming blog about Marketing Yourself on YouTube. Regardless, this 19 year-old from California has an incredible voice. You may remember her when she was 16 on American Idol season 9 but most of us know her from her 7 million YouTube page upload views. Enjoy this great cover of Frank Oceans Thinking About You. Don't forget to check for my post this later tonight. Cheers.

Clarity trumps persuasion

Think about this. The next time you hear a social media myth, question it. Ask for the proof, and examine out loud. One of the biggest myths I have heard floating around college is “ I don’t think we need to use social media.” That’s like saying you don’t need air to breathe. 

Don’t get me wrong; some businesses do better with social media than others (Starbucks vs. Local Plumbing). As a student I’ve been working with social media now for 3 years and the best recommendation I can give is that it’s time to get your name out there. Respond to customers and prospective customers, and get the exchange started. Let’s face it; if you’re not using social media for your business, you are behind. If you aren’t planning to use social media to market, you’ll be left in the dust. Social media isn’t about working when you have time, unless you’re the kid who sang Chocolate Rain, you will not be an overnight sensation. 

Think of social media as a conversation, or an outlet for client service and a place to build your credibility. This dance is a delicate balance and one that will be trial and error until you discover what your audience really needs. Okay Sean, so what does this all mean? The reality is, as your audience grows and as social media changes, you will frequently need to polish your strategies. Before you create any more “great content,” figure out how you are going to market it first.