Once you decide to take that first step to Twitter or develop a profile on LinkedIn or Facebook, consider all the potential it holds for your marketing strategy.

While the tried and true methods of publicity – from a mention in a magazine to a perfectly promoted event – still have significant value, the results can multiply through the use of social networking.

Here are some ideas to consider:

* Brevity reigns supreme – When it come to sending tweets, 140-character messages through Twitter or newsfeed updates on Facebook, make the information pop. Be quick and witty. Be mindful of key search words and references that users might be seeking out and soon enough, customers will find and connect with you.
* Lead them where you want them – Whether it’s your company’s Web site for more information or to a Tweet Up at your restaurant or a sale at your store, give them the basics and link a URL toward more details.
* Think visually – Add photos to draw attention to your LinkedIn or Facebook page or show off your surroundings or new products on Twitter.
* DIY or don’t – Sure social networking can be done at no cost, but if you truly aim for results, consider assigning this task to a marketing professional who will analyze and even create content for your blog. Publicity Works offers special packages that can offer as little or as much assistance as you prefer.
* Never fear – Some businesses might be more tied to the traditional routes of getting the word out about their business. But there is no need to limit your business’ potential during this time of change and opportunity.

Now get online and start seeking out those already-available, invaluable connections!

With the continued growth of blogs and online social networking tools from Twitter to Facebook to LinkedIn, there are more ways than ever to spread the word about your business, and reach a new audience. Still, we wondered – does the fear of paying a retainer set businesses back from themarketing they need?

At a time when advertising dollars are tight, PublicityWorks crafted a plan to allay those fears and suit a client’s needs – no matter how big or small. By partnering with the Web experts at Futuramic Media, we’re offering a variety of set-fee packages for social networking that ensure quick,measurable results. Consider this:

· Start with our Diagnostic package – for a set fee we’ll look at your Web site as well as the sort of media placement and marketing plan you already have in place. We’ll compare your strategies withthose of your competitors, and suggest ways to make changes.

· You can decide whether to take it to the next level in-house or move on to the next phase with us.

· Continue with us for Implementation and we will provide new systems of outreach, create relevant, riveting online content, revise your online and social networking presence, all to propel your businessto the next level.

· Our Ongoing approach can continue to develop your presence online, provide blog content and media outreach as bestsuits your business.

You’ll know right away what’s working and what isn’t. The return on your investment is almost instantaneous. We aim to provide an online presence with a strategy that is directly attached to your business goals.

Tell us what you think, share your ideas for positioning your business online, into the Internet stratosphere and beyond.