Defining Social Media

Social Media means more than making a few cyber-friends. With functions ranging from online calendars to interactive professional networking groups, the wide range of social media tools make doing business faster, easier and more effective than ever before.

Social Media Blog - Aliza Sherman is a news media entrepreneur, author, women's issues activist and international speaker. Sherman has received recognition for her role as an entrepreneur focused on women's issues, particularly their role in the new media industry and their participation on the Internet. Check in here to read her weekly blog.

• What is Social Media? - While the term may confuse entrepreneurs new to social media, the phrase captures online networking and conversations; content sharing of text, video and images; and creative co-collaboration.
• Social Media Best Practices - Best practices in the social media arena can drive visitors to your website, establish your brand, provide customer insight and much more. The trick is learning exactly what "best practice" means.
• Developing a Social Media Calendar - Social media provides a slew of marketing opportunities. The savvy entrepreneur will maximize the possibilities by strategically timing blogs, messages, updates and other information across media outlets.
• Internal and External Policies - Just as in a bricks-and-mortar operation, rules and regulations protect both entrepreneurs and their customers. Learn how to develop Terms of Service (TOS) for your online presences, whether Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter or online publishing outlets.
• Introduction to Social Networking - As major components of online marketing, social networks provide real opportunities to build your business. Get the basics on profiles, connections, bios, "tweets," and content posting to maximize your network's potential.
• Using Alternative Social Networks - Choosing the right social network to reach your target market can be challenging. The most well-known social networks in the United States are Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok, Snapchat, LinkedIn, and X (Twitter).