I just read this blog post, Can you sell your product using social media networks?

He states, “The Social Media area of the New Media is a listening platform, NOT a selling platform.” I believe that, but so many use it as a broadcast media. A PR machine. That doesn’t work for attention or selling.

Social media works effectively for Customer Care. Ask @XOCare, Comcast, JetBlue, SWAir. Why? Engagement.

Rule number 1 in sales is be Friendly. Make a friend. You can do that online. If you Listen first. Then have a conversation.

“Give generously and people will follow you.” That is the premise of Linchpins by Seth Godin. Be Generous. It’s one way to stand out or become an Expert.

The new sales process involves word-of-mouth, user reviews, online searches, and comparison shopping.

I have seen people test social network responsiveness of companies before buying from them. It’s a whole new world.

It’s definitely easier to sell things like Dell gear, hotel rooms or discounted airfare, than services on social media. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be done. It’s just more challenging.

350 words is an easy target. It’s a half page column in a magazine. (It’s my quota every month for the print magazine, Internet Telephony). Hugh MacLeod of Gaping Void says that 300 words a day is easy. He’s right (and write). Read it here.

If you are blogging, you have to do it regularly. So set a schedule and hit that 300-350 word quota.

Followers: maybe its about a lack of leaders, but why is everyone a follower?

Fans: maybe because there aren’t that many products and services to be thrilled about; the bar is set so very low.