Bump, the application maker known for its mobile device contact and photo exchange technology, has just released an update to its iOS applications — iPhone, iPod touch, iPad — that supports user-to-user music sharing.
In version 2.2, Bump [iTunes link] users can select songs from their iTunes collection to share with friends via the classic Bump gesture. Music recipients can then listen to the full tracks, as streamed from YouTubeclass="blippr-nobr">YouTube, or preview and buy them on iTunes.
Co-founder and CEO David Lieb believes music sharing and Bump are perfect companions. “We think Bump is the simplest and easiest way to tell your friends about songs and artists you love,” he says.
Bump is making an educated bet that music sharing will follow in the footsteps of photo sharing, which is now the most popular feature of its applications “with more than a million photos shared every weekend,” according to Lieb.
Bump already supports contact, calendar event and photo exchange, and also enables users to become fast friends on class='blippr-nobr'>Facebookclass="blippr-nobr">Facebook, class='blippr-nobr'>Twitterclass="blippr-nobr">Twitter and class='blippr-nobr'>LinkedInclass="blippr-nobr">LinkedIn simply by bumping phones together. The startup also makes available an API to third-party application developers. PayPal, for instance, recently upgraded its mobile applications to allow for money transfers via Bump.
Image courtesy of class='blippr-nobr'>Flickrclass="blippr-nobr">Flickr, Yutaka Tsutano
For more Mobile coverage:
- class="f-el">class="cov-twit">Follow Mashable Mobileclass="s-el">class="cov-rss">Subscribe to the Mobile channelclass="f-el">class="cov-fb">Become a Fan on Facebookclass="s-el">class="cov-apple">Download our free apps for iPhone and iPad
As part of the ongoing Mashable Awards, we’re taking a closer look at each of the nomination categories. This is “Best Social Media Service for Small Business.” Be sure to nominate your favorites and join us for the Gala in Las Vegas! Sponsorships are available. Please contact sponsorships@mashable.com for more information.
Throughout the year we’ve spoken to many small business owners, asking them about their best practices, recommendations and success stories in the social media space.
Pulling from their experiences, we’ve learned that choosing social platforms should be based on what type of content your company produces, where your audience is already active, what your goals are, and how you plan to add value for your business’s followers.
While every social platform isn’t fit for all businesses, there are quite a few standout services that can be utilized throughout many industries. Here are our top picks for social media services for small businesses — many of these may not be surprising, but that’s because the success stories we’ve heard have proven them over and over again.
Which social media services do you recommend for small businesses? Add your thoughts in the comments below.
1. Communications Service: Twitterclass="blippr-nobr">Twitter
When you ask business owners about their social media strategies, Facebookclass="blippr-nobr">Facebook and Twitter are generally among the first words that come up. These two platforms have become the go-to, entry-level platforms for business owners looking to get more social.
For quick, effective communication, though, our vote goes to Twitter. The micro-blogging service enables businesses to quickly and effectively enhance customer service, business development, public relations and even lead generation. Through these types of communication, businesses humanize their brands, making them seem more friendly and approachable.
Not only that, unlike many other social sites, Twitter is easy to set up due to its minimalist approach. While setup and growing a following entails a bit of a learning curve for new users, maintaining a Twitter presence is simple once you’ve got it together. In short, Twitter is a big win for small businesses.
Also noteworthy: Facebook
2. Video-Sharing Service: YouTubeclass="blippr-nobr">YouTube
From speeches and tours to tutorials and documentaries, small businesses are using web video in a lot of creative ways — even CEOs are getting involved. Businesses are using a number of services, but our top pick for small businesses is still the video king, YouTube.
In November 2008, YouTube surpassed Yahoo as the second largest search engine in the U.S., only next to class='blippr-nobr'>Googleclass="blippr-nobr">Google. It has maintained that spot ever since. While business owners may be able to benefit from better aesthetics and revenue models on other video-hosting sites, YouTube offers visibility, familiarity and a massive audience.
Also noteworthy: Vimeoclass="blippr-nobr">Vimeo, Blip.tv
3. Twitter Photo-Sharing Service: Twitpicclass="blippr-nobr">Twitpic
There are a lot of Twitter photo-sharing services to sift through, but the most popular one is TwitPic.
Photo-sharing on Twitter can be a great way to showcase products and give a behind-the-scenes look at your business. Really, you can’t go wrong with most of the Twitter photo-sharing services out there. The majority are easy to use, only require users to sign in via Twitter oAuth, and showcase photos in a timeline. TwitPic adds the extra value of being recognizable within your Twitter stream.
Also noteworthy: Plixi, yfrog
4. Location-Based Service: Foursquareclass="blippr-nobr">Foursquare
Social media adoption rates among small businesses have grown dramatically this year, and location-based services are high on the list of emerging platforms of interest. While there are a handful of quality location-based services out there, including the recently launched Facebook Places, we believe that Foursquare still offers the best small business experience.
In the coming year, SCVNGR may give class='blippr-nobr'>Foursquareclass="blippr-nobr">foursquare a run for its money because of its innovative approach to the space, but for now, Foursquare wears the crown for being accessible to both the biggest brands and the smallest companies.
Also noteworthy: SCVNGR, Gowallaclass="blippr-nobr">Gowalla
5. Blogging Platform: Tumblrclass="blippr-nobr">Tumblr
Corporate blogs are catching on with companies of all types and sizes. To build an excellent corporate blog, you need compelling content, dedicated writers and, of course, a blogging platform.
Tumblr makes blogging almost as easy as tweeting, and puts a heavier focus on the social aspects of blogging than most platforms. The interface is easy to use, there are a ton of great themes, and the re-blogging feature makes it easy for users to share content.
Also noteworthy: WordPress.com, Bloggerclass="blippr-nobr">blogger, Posterousclass="blippr-nobr">Posterous
6. Social Media Dashboard: TweetDeckclass="blippr-nobr">TweetDeck
Dealing with multiple social media accounts across various platforms is a total downer, but luckily there are lots of social media management tools to help, and TweetDeck seems to be a top pick among small business owners that we’ve spoken to. It’s free and enables users to connect across Twitter, Facebook, MySpaceclass="blippr-nobr">MySpace, LinkedInclass="blippr-nobr">LinkedIn, Foursquare and Google Buzz.
The dashboard is clean, customizable and easy to use, allowing users to organize feeds, mentions, messages and searches across multiple columns.
Also noteworthy: HootSuiteclass="blippr-nobr">HootSuite, Seesmicclass="blippr-nobr">Seesmic, CoTweetclass="blippr-nobr">CoTweet, Postling
7. Funding Platform: Kickstarter
For startups and small businesses looking for funding, we recommend Kickstarter, a service for crowd sourcing funds for “creative ideas and ambitious endeavors.”
Kickstarter operates on an all-or-nothing model. Project owners choose a goal and a deadline, and if the project isn’t fully funded when time expires, then no money changes hands.
Small businesses can benefit from such a site by starting projects for business goals of all sorts — the most successful projects on Kickstarter are often out-of-the-box undertakings, though, so get creative. One recent project, for example, has a goal of buying equipment to make sheep’s milk soap. The farmer already herds sheep but is looking to raise funds to pay for an expansion of her soap production business. The project has already attracted 16 backers to fulfill the $500 goal, and it still has a few weeks to go.
Also noteworthy: IndieGoGo, Invested.in
What’s Your Take?
Which social media services does your small business use and recommend? Let us know in the comments or nominate them for the Mashable Awards.
The Mashable Awards Gala at Cirque du Soleil Zumanity (Vegas)
/>
In partnership with Cirque du Soleil, The Mashable Awards Gala event will bring together the winners and nominees, the class='blippr-nobr'>Mashableclass="blippr-nobr">Mashable community, partners, media, the marketing community, consumer electronics and technology brands and attendees from the 2011 International CES Convention to Las Vegas on Thursday, January 6, 2011. Together, we will celebrate the winners and the community of the Mashable Awards at the Cirque du Soleil Zumanity stage in the beautiful New York New York Hotel. The event will include acts and performances from our partner Cirque du Soleil Zumanity. In addition, there will be special guest presenters and appearances.
Date: Thursday, January 6th, 2011 (during International CES Convention week)
/> Time: 7:00 – 10:00 pm PT
/> Location: Cirque du Soleil Zumanity, New York New York Hotel, Las Vegas
/> Agenda: Networking, Open Bars, Acts, Surprises and the Mashable Awards Gala presentations
/> Socialize: Facebook, Foursquare, Meetup, Plancast, Twitter (Hashtag: #MashableAwards)
Thanks to our sponsors:
Mashable Awards Gala Partner:
From a group of 20 street performers at its beginnings in 1984, Cirque du Soleil is now a global entertainment organization providing high-quality artistic entertainment. The company has over 5,000 employees, including more than 1,200 artists from close to 50 different countries.
Cirque du Soleil has brought wonder and delight to nearly 100 million spectators in 300 cities on five continents. In 2010 Cirque du Soleil, will present 21 shows simultaneously throughout the world, including seven in Las Vegas.
For more information about Cirque du Soleil, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com
Mashable Awards Online Partner:
Have you ever wished for your own personal gourmet Chef?
The Fresh Diet is like having a Cordon Bleu chef prepare your meals in your own kitchen. There’s no cooking, cleaning, shopping – just fresh prepared delicious meals, hand delivered to your door daily! Whether you want to lose weight or just want to eat healthy, The Fresh Diet can help you meet your goals. The best news, we’re giving away a FREE week of The Fresh Diet every day on our Facebook page. Just click here to become a fan and you could be the next winner. Join now!
Mashable Awards Partner:
Join us at the 2011 International CES®, the global platform for inspired ideas and innovation. With 2,500 exhibitors, CES continues to be the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow and always reflects the dynamic consumer electronics industry. The International CES is not open to the general public and all attendees must be in the CE industry to be eligible to attend the show. Register FREE for the 2011 CES with priority code MSHB, an exclusive promotion for Mashable Readers.
Mashable Awards Gala VIP Lounge sponsor:
Influxis specializes in the deployment of creative streaming solutions. Services include large scale deployment, mobile streaming, turn-key applications, and enterprise support with custom network options. With the unique combination of a worldwide network, knowledgeable developer support and nearly a decade of streaming media experience, Influxis is an essential partner to businesses, advertisers, developers, educators, and others who seek expertise in innovative streaming.
Sponsorships are available. Please contact sponsorships@mashable.com for more information.
Image courtesy of DaddyDesign
For more Business coverage:
- class="f-el">class="cov-twit">Follow Mashable Businessclass="s-el">class="cov-rss">Subscribe to the Business channelclass="f-el">class="cov-fb">Become a Fan on Facebookclass="s-el">class="cov-apple">Download our free apps for iPhone and iPad
eric seiger
Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our news of Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3.
Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales Xbox 360 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our Xbox 360 news of Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales.
The American Spectator : AmSpecBlog : Fox <b>News</b> Contributors Mock <b>...</b>
On the video, Miller, Trotter, Scott, Newsday columnist Ellis Henican and Fox News contributor James Pinkerton are seen preparing to go on the air when Miller says, "Oh, I do have something to say about Palin. I even prepared it. ...
eric seiger
Bump, the application maker known for its mobile device contact and photo exchange technology, has just released an update to its iOS applications — iPhone, iPod touch, iPad — that supports user-to-user music sharing.
In version 2.2, Bump [iTunes link] users can select songs from their iTunes collection to share with friends via the classic Bump gesture. Music recipients can then listen to the full tracks, as streamed from YouTubeclass="blippr-nobr">YouTube, or preview and buy them on iTunes.
Co-founder and CEO David Lieb believes music sharing and Bump are perfect companions. “We think Bump is the simplest and easiest way to tell your friends about songs and artists you love,” he says.
Bump is making an educated bet that music sharing will follow in the footsteps of photo sharing, which is now the most popular feature of its applications “with more than a million photos shared every weekend,” according to Lieb.
Bump already supports contact, calendar event and photo exchange, and also enables users to become fast friends on class='blippr-nobr'>Facebookclass="blippr-nobr">Facebook, class='blippr-nobr'>Twitterclass="blippr-nobr">Twitter and class='blippr-nobr'>LinkedInclass="blippr-nobr">LinkedIn simply by bumping phones together. The startup also makes available an API to third-party application developers. PayPal, for instance, recently upgraded its mobile applications to allow for money transfers via Bump.
Image courtesy of class='blippr-nobr'>Flickrclass="blippr-nobr">Flickr, Yutaka Tsutano
For more Mobile coverage:
- class="f-el">class="cov-twit">Follow Mashable Mobileclass="s-el">class="cov-rss">Subscribe to the Mobile channelclass="f-el">class="cov-fb">Become a Fan on Facebookclass="s-el">class="cov-apple">Download our free apps for iPhone and iPad
As part of the ongoing Mashable Awards, we’re taking a closer look at each of the nomination categories. This is “Best Social Media Service for Small Business.” Be sure to nominate your favorites and join us for the Gala in Las Vegas! Sponsorships are available. Please contact sponsorships@mashable.com for more information.
Throughout the year we’ve spoken to many small business owners, asking them about their best practices, recommendations and success stories in the social media space.
Pulling from their experiences, we’ve learned that choosing social platforms should be based on what type of content your company produces, where your audience is already active, what your goals are, and how you plan to add value for your business’s followers.
While every social platform isn’t fit for all businesses, there are quite a few standout services that can be utilized throughout many industries. Here are our top picks for social media services for small businesses — many of these may not be surprising, but that’s because the success stories we’ve heard have proven them over and over again.
Which social media services do you recommend for small businesses? Add your thoughts in the comments below.
1. Communications Service: Twitterclass="blippr-nobr">Twitter
When you ask business owners about their social media strategies, Facebookclass="blippr-nobr">Facebook and Twitter are generally among the first words that come up. These two platforms have become the go-to, entry-level platforms for business owners looking to get more social.
For quick, effective communication, though, our vote goes to Twitter. The micro-blogging service enables businesses to quickly and effectively enhance customer service, business development, public relations and even lead generation. Through these types of communication, businesses humanize their brands, making them seem more friendly and approachable.
Not only that, unlike many other social sites, Twitter is easy to set up due to its minimalist approach. While setup and growing a following entails a bit of a learning curve for new users, maintaining a Twitter presence is simple once you’ve got it together. In short, Twitter is a big win for small businesses.
Also noteworthy: Facebook
2. Video-Sharing Service: YouTubeclass="blippr-nobr">YouTube
From speeches and tours to tutorials and documentaries, small businesses are using web video in a lot of creative ways — even CEOs are getting involved. Businesses are using a number of services, but our top pick for small businesses is still the video king, YouTube.
In November 2008, YouTube surpassed Yahoo as the second largest search engine in the U.S., only next to class='blippr-nobr'>Googleclass="blippr-nobr">Google. It has maintained that spot ever since. While business owners may be able to benefit from better aesthetics and revenue models on other video-hosting sites, YouTube offers visibility, familiarity and a massive audience.
Also noteworthy: Vimeoclass="blippr-nobr">Vimeo, Blip.tv
3. Twitter Photo-Sharing Service: Twitpicclass="blippr-nobr">Twitpic
There are a lot of Twitter photo-sharing services to sift through, but the most popular one is TwitPic.
Photo-sharing on Twitter can be a great way to showcase products and give a behind-the-scenes look at your business. Really, you can’t go wrong with most of the Twitter photo-sharing services out there. The majority are easy to use, only require users to sign in via Twitter oAuth, and showcase photos in a timeline. TwitPic adds the extra value of being recognizable within your Twitter stream.
Also noteworthy: Plixi, yfrog
4. Location-Based Service: Foursquareclass="blippr-nobr">Foursquare
Social media adoption rates among small businesses have grown dramatically this year, and location-based services are high on the list of emerging platforms of interest. While there are a handful of quality location-based services out there, including the recently launched Facebook Places, we believe that Foursquare still offers the best small business experience.
In the coming year, SCVNGR may give class='blippr-nobr'>Foursquareclass="blippr-nobr">foursquare a run for its money because of its innovative approach to the space, but for now, Foursquare wears the crown for being accessible to both the biggest brands and the smallest companies.
Also noteworthy: SCVNGR, Gowallaclass="blippr-nobr">Gowalla
5. Blogging Platform: Tumblrclass="blippr-nobr">Tumblr
Corporate blogs are catching on with companies of all types and sizes. To build an excellent corporate blog, you need compelling content, dedicated writers and, of course, a blogging platform.
Tumblr makes blogging almost as easy as tweeting, and puts a heavier focus on the social aspects of blogging than most platforms. The interface is easy to use, there are a ton of great themes, and the re-blogging feature makes it easy for users to share content.
Also noteworthy: WordPress.com, Bloggerclass="blippr-nobr">blogger, Posterousclass="blippr-nobr">Posterous
6. Social Media Dashboard: TweetDeckclass="blippr-nobr">TweetDeck
Dealing with multiple social media accounts across various platforms is a total downer, but luckily there are lots of social media management tools to help, and TweetDeck seems to be a top pick among small business owners that we’ve spoken to. It’s free and enables users to connect across Twitter, Facebook, MySpaceclass="blippr-nobr">MySpace, LinkedInclass="blippr-nobr">LinkedIn, Foursquare and Google Buzz.
The dashboard is clean, customizable and easy to use, allowing users to organize feeds, mentions, messages and searches across multiple columns.
Also noteworthy: HootSuiteclass="blippr-nobr">HootSuite, Seesmicclass="blippr-nobr">Seesmic, CoTweetclass="blippr-nobr">CoTweet, Postling
7. Funding Platform: Kickstarter
For startups and small businesses looking for funding, we recommend Kickstarter, a service for crowd sourcing funds for “creative ideas and ambitious endeavors.”
Kickstarter operates on an all-or-nothing model. Project owners choose a goal and a deadline, and if the project isn’t fully funded when time expires, then no money changes hands.
Small businesses can benefit from such a site by starting projects for business goals of all sorts — the most successful projects on Kickstarter are often out-of-the-box undertakings, though, so get creative. One recent project, for example, has a goal of buying equipment to make sheep’s milk soap. The farmer already herds sheep but is looking to raise funds to pay for an expansion of her soap production business. The project has already attracted 16 backers to fulfill the $500 goal, and it still has a few weeks to go.
Also noteworthy: IndieGoGo, Invested.in
What’s Your Take?
Which social media services does your small business use and recommend? Let us know in the comments or nominate them for the Mashable Awards.
The Mashable Awards Gala at Cirque du Soleil Zumanity (Vegas)
/>
In partnership with Cirque du Soleil, The Mashable Awards Gala event will bring together the winners and nominees, the class='blippr-nobr'>Mashableclass="blippr-nobr">Mashable community, partners, media, the marketing community, consumer electronics and technology brands and attendees from the 2011 International CES Convention to Las Vegas on Thursday, January 6, 2011. Together, we will celebrate the winners and the community of the Mashable Awards at the Cirque du Soleil Zumanity stage in the beautiful New York New York Hotel. The event will include acts and performances from our partner Cirque du Soleil Zumanity. In addition, there will be special guest presenters and appearances.
Date: Thursday, January 6th, 2011 (during International CES Convention week)
/> Time: 7:00 – 10:00 pm PT
/> Location: Cirque du Soleil Zumanity, New York New York Hotel, Las Vegas
/> Agenda: Networking, Open Bars, Acts, Surprises and the Mashable Awards Gala presentations
/> Socialize: Facebook, Foursquare, Meetup, Plancast, Twitter (Hashtag: #MashableAwards)
Thanks to our sponsors:
Mashable Awards Gala Partner:
From a group of 20 street performers at its beginnings in 1984, Cirque du Soleil is now a global entertainment organization providing high-quality artistic entertainment. The company has over 5,000 employees, including more than 1,200 artists from close to 50 different countries.
Cirque du Soleil has brought wonder and delight to nearly 100 million spectators in 300 cities on five continents. In 2010 Cirque du Soleil, will present 21 shows simultaneously throughout the world, including seven in Las Vegas.
For more information about Cirque du Soleil, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com
Mashable Awards Online Partner:
Have you ever wished for your own personal gourmet Chef?
The Fresh Diet is like having a Cordon Bleu chef prepare your meals in your own kitchen. There’s no cooking, cleaning, shopping – just fresh prepared delicious meals, hand delivered to your door daily! Whether you want to lose weight or just want to eat healthy, The Fresh Diet can help you meet your goals. The best news, we’re giving away a FREE week of The Fresh Diet every day on our Facebook page. Just click here to become a fan and you could be the next winner. Join now!
Mashable Awards Partner:
Join us at the 2011 International CES®, the global platform for inspired ideas and innovation. With 2,500 exhibitors, CES continues to be the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow and always reflects the dynamic consumer electronics industry. The International CES is not open to the general public and all attendees must be in the CE industry to be eligible to attend the show. Register FREE for the 2011 CES with priority code MSHB, an exclusive promotion for Mashable Readers.
Mashable Awards Gala VIP Lounge sponsor:
Influxis specializes in the deployment of creative streaming solutions. Services include large scale deployment, mobile streaming, turn-key applications, and enterprise support with custom network options. With the unique combination of a worldwide network, knowledgeable developer support and nearly a decade of streaming media experience, Influxis is an essential partner to businesses, advertisers, developers, educators, and others who seek expertise in innovative streaming.
Sponsorships are available. Please contact sponsorships@mashable.com for more information.
Image courtesy of DaddyDesign
For more Business coverage:
- class="f-el">class="cov-twit">Follow Mashable Businessclass="s-el">class="cov-rss">Subscribe to the Business channelclass="f-el">class="cov-fb">Become a Fan on Facebookclass="s-el">class="cov-apple">Download our free apps for iPhone and iPad
eric seiger
Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our news of Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3.
Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales Xbox 360 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our Xbox 360 news of Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales.
The American Spectator : AmSpecBlog : Fox <b>News</b> Contributors Mock <b>...</b>
On the video, Miller, Trotter, Scott, Newsday columnist Ellis Henican and Fox News contributor James Pinkerton are seen preparing to go on the air when Miller says, "Oh, I do have something to say about Palin. I even prepared it. ...
eric seiger
eric seiger
eric seiger
Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our news of Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3.
Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales Xbox 360 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our Xbox 360 news of Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales.
The American Spectator : AmSpecBlog : Fox <b>News</b> Contributors Mock <b>...</b>
On the video, Miller, Trotter, Scott, Newsday columnist Ellis Henican and Fox News contributor James Pinkerton are seen preparing to go on the air when Miller says, "Oh, I do have something to say about Palin. I even prepared it. ...
eric seiger
Bump, the application maker known for its mobile device contact and photo exchange technology, has just released an update to its iOS applications — iPhone, iPod touch, iPad — that supports user-to-user music sharing.
In version 2.2, Bump [iTunes link] users can select songs from their iTunes collection to share with friends via the classic Bump gesture. Music recipients can then listen to the full tracks, as streamed from YouTubeclass="blippr-nobr">YouTube, or preview and buy them on iTunes.
Co-founder and CEO David Lieb believes music sharing and Bump are perfect companions. “We think Bump is the simplest and easiest way to tell your friends about songs and artists you love,” he says.
Bump is making an educated bet that music sharing will follow in the footsteps of photo sharing, which is now the most popular feature of its applications “with more than a million photos shared every weekend,” according to Lieb.
Bump already supports contact, calendar event and photo exchange, and also enables users to become fast friends on class='blippr-nobr'>Facebookclass="blippr-nobr">Facebook, class='blippr-nobr'>Twitterclass="blippr-nobr">Twitter and class='blippr-nobr'>LinkedInclass="blippr-nobr">LinkedIn simply by bumping phones together. The startup also makes available an API to third-party application developers. PayPal, for instance, recently upgraded its mobile applications to allow for money transfers via Bump.
Image courtesy of class='blippr-nobr'>Flickrclass="blippr-nobr">Flickr, Yutaka Tsutano
For more Mobile coverage:
- class="f-el">class="cov-twit">Follow Mashable Mobileclass="s-el">class="cov-rss">Subscribe to the Mobile channelclass="f-el">class="cov-fb">Become a Fan on Facebookclass="s-el">class="cov-apple">Download our free apps for iPhone and iPad
As part of the ongoing Mashable Awards, we’re taking a closer look at each of the nomination categories. This is “Best Social Media Service for Small Business.” Be sure to nominate your favorites and join us for the Gala in Las Vegas! Sponsorships are available. Please contact sponsorships@mashable.com for more information.
Throughout the year we’ve spoken to many small business owners, asking them about their best practices, recommendations and success stories in the social media space.
Pulling from their experiences, we’ve learned that choosing social platforms should be based on what type of content your company produces, where your audience is already active, what your goals are, and how you plan to add value for your business’s followers.
While every social platform isn’t fit for all businesses, there are quite a few standout services that can be utilized throughout many industries. Here are our top picks for social media services for small businesses — many of these may not be surprising, but that’s because the success stories we’ve heard have proven them over and over again.
Which social media services do you recommend for small businesses? Add your thoughts in the comments below.
1. Communications Service: Twitterclass="blippr-nobr">Twitter
When you ask business owners about their social media strategies, Facebookclass="blippr-nobr">Facebook and Twitter are generally among the first words that come up. These two platforms have become the go-to, entry-level platforms for business owners looking to get more social.
For quick, effective communication, though, our vote goes to Twitter. The micro-blogging service enables businesses to quickly and effectively enhance customer service, business development, public relations and even lead generation. Through these types of communication, businesses humanize their brands, making them seem more friendly and approachable.
Not only that, unlike many other social sites, Twitter is easy to set up due to its minimalist approach. While setup and growing a following entails a bit of a learning curve for new users, maintaining a Twitter presence is simple once you’ve got it together. In short, Twitter is a big win for small businesses.
Also noteworthy: Facebook
2. Video-Sharing Service: YouTubeclass="blippr-nobr">YouTube
From speeches and tours to tutorials and documentaries, small businesses are using web video in a lot of creative ways — even CEOs are getting involved. Businesses are using a number of services, but our top pick for small businesses is still the video king, YouTube.
In November 2008, YouTube surpassed Yahoo as the second largest search engine in the U.S., only next to class='blippr-nobr'>Googleclass="blippr-nobr">Google. It has maintained that spot ever since. While business owners may be able to benefit from better aesthetics and revenue models on other video-hosting sites, YouTube offers visibility, familiarity and a massive audience.
Also noteworthy: Vimeoclass="blippr-nobr">Vimeo, Blip.tv
3. Twitter Photo-Sharing Service: Twitpicclass="blippr-nobr">Twitpic
There are a lot of Twitter photo-sharing services to sift through, but the most popular one is TwitPic.
Photo-sharing on Twitter can be a great way to showcase products and give a behind-the-scenes look at your business. Really, you can’t go wrong with most of the Twitter photo-sharing services out there. The majority are easy to use, only require users to sign in via Twitter oAuth, and showcase photos in a timeline. TwitPic adds the extra value of being recognizable within your Twitter stream.
Also noteworthy: Plixi, yfrog
4. Location-Based Service: Foursquareclass="blippr-nobr">Foursquare
Social media adoption rates among small businesses have grown dramatically this year, and location-based services are high on the list of emerging platforms of interest. While there are a handful of quality location-based services out there, including the recently launched Facebook Places, we believe that Foursquare still offers the best small business experience.
In the coming year, SCVNGR may give class='blippr-nobr'>Foursquareclass="blippr-nobr">foursquare a run for its money because of its innovative approach to the space, but for now, Foursquare wears the crown for being accessible to both the biggest brands and the smallest companies.
Also noteworthy: SCVNGR, Gowallaclass="blippr-nobr">Gowalla
5. Blogging Platform: Tumblrclass="blippr-nobr">Tumblr
Corporate blogs are catching on with companies of all types and sizes. To build an excellent corporate blog, you need compelling content, dedicated writers and, of course, a blogging platform.
Tumblr makes blogging almost as easy as tweeting, and puts a heavier focus on the social aspects of blogging than most platforms. The interface is easy to use, there are a ton of great themes, and the re-blogging feature makes it easy for users to share content.
Also noteworthy: WordPress.com, Bloggerclass="blippr-nobr">blogger, Posterousclass="blippr-nobr">Posterous
6. Social Media Dashboard: TweetDeckclass="blippr-nobr">TweetDeck
Dealing with multiple social media accounts across various platforms is a total downer, but luckily there are lots of social media management tools to help, and TweetDeck seems to be a top pick among small business owners that we’ve spoken to. It’s free and enables users to connect across Twitter, Facebook, MySpaceclass="blippr-nobr">MySpace, LinkedInclass="blippr-nobr">LinkedIn, Foursquare and Google Buzz.
The dashboard is clean, customizable and easy to use, allowing users to organize feeds, mentions, messages and searches across multiple columns.
Also noteworthy: HootSuiteclass="blippr-nobr">HootSuite, Seesmicclass="blippr-nobr">Seesmic, CoTweetclass="blippr-nobr">CoTweet, Postling
7. Funding Platform: Kickstarter
For startups and small businesses looking for funding, we recommend Kickstarter, a service for crowd sourcing funds for “creative ideas and ambitious endeavors.”
Kickstarter operates on an all-or-nothing model. Project owners choose a goal and a deadline, and if the project isn’t fully funded when time expires, then no money changes hands.
Small businesses can benefit from such a site by starting projects for business goals of all sorts — the most successful projects on Kickstarter are often out-of-the-box undertakings, though, so get creative. One recent project, for example, has a goal of buying equipment to make sheep’s milk soap. The farmer already herds sheep but is looking to raise funds to pay for an expansion of her soap production business. The project has already attracted 16 backers to fulfill the $500 goal, and it still has a few weeks to go.
Also noteworthy: IndieGoGo, Invested.in
What’s Your Take?
Which social media services does your small business use and recommend? Let us know in the comments or nominate them for the Mashable Awards.
The Mashable Awards Gala at Cirque du Soleil Zumanity (Vegas)
/>
In partnership with Cirque du Soleil, The Mashable Awards Gala event will bring together the winners and nominees, the class='blippr-nobr'>Mashableclass="blippr-nobr">Mashable community, partners, media, the marketing community, consumer electronics and technology brands and attendees from the 2011 International CES Convention to Las Vegas on Thursday, January 6, 2011. Together, we will celebrate the winners and the community of the Mashable Awards at the Cirque du Soleil Zumanity stage in the beautiful New York New York Hotel. The event will include acts and performances from our partner Cirque du Soleil Zumanity. In addition, there will be special guest presenters and appearances.
Date: Thursday, January 6th, 2011 (during International CES Convention week)
/> Time: 7:00 – 10:00 pm PT
/> Location: Cirque du Soleil Zumanity, New York New York Hotel, Las Vegas
/> Agenda: Networking, Open Bars, Acts, Surprises and the Mashable Awards Gala presentations
/> Socialize: Facebook, Foursquare, Meetup, Plancast, Twitter (Hashtag: #MashableAwards)
Thanks to our sponsors:
Mashable Awards Gala Partner:
From a group of 20 street performers at its beginnings in 1984, Cirque du Soleil is now a global entertainment organization providing high-quality artistic entertainment. The company has over 5,000 employees, including more than 1,200 artists from close to 50 different countries.
Cirque du Soleil has brought wonder and delight to nearly 100 million spectators in 300 cities on five continents. In 2010 Cirque du Soleil, will present 21 shows simultaneously throughout the world, including seven in Las Vegas.
For more information about Cirque du Soleil, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com
Mashable Awards Online Partner:
Have you ever wished for your own personal gourmet Chef?
The Fresh Diet is like having a Cordon Bleu chef prepare your meals in your own kitchen. There’s no cooking, cleaning, shopping – just fresh prepared delicious meals, hand delivered to your door daily! Whether you want to lose weight or just want to eat healthy, The Fresh Diet can help you meet your goals. The best news, we’re giving away a FREE week of The Fresh Diet every day on our Facebook page. Just click here to become a fan and you could be the next winner. Join now!
Mashable Awards Partner:
Join us at the 2011 International CES®, the global platform for inspired ideas and innovation. With 2,500 exhibitors, CES continues to be the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow and always reflects the dynamic consumer electronics industry. The International CES is not open to the general public and all attendees must be in the CE industry to be eligible to attend the show. Register FREE for the 2011 CES with priority code MSHB, an exclusive promotion for Mashable Readers.
Mashable Awards Gala VIP Lounge sponsor:
Influxis specializes in the deployment of creative streaming solutions. Services include large scale deployment, mobile streaming, turn-key applications, and enterprise support with custom network options. With the unique combination of a worldwide network, knowledgeable developer support and nearly a decade of streaming media experience, Influxis is an essential partner to businesses, advertisers, developers, educators, and others who seek expertise in innovative streaming.
Sponsorships are available. Please contact sponsorships@mashable.com for more information.
Image courtesy of DaddyDesign
For more Business coverage:
- class="f-el">class="cov-twit">Follow Mashable Businessclass="s-el">class="cov-rss">Subscribe to the Business channelclass="f-el">class="cov-fb">Become a Fan on Facebookclass="s-el">class="cov-apple">Download our free apps for iPhone and iPad
eric seiger
eric seiger
Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our news of Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3.
Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales Xbox 360 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our Xbox 360 news of Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales.
The American Spectator : AmSpecBlog : Fox <b>News</b> Contributors Mock <b>...</b>
On the video, Miller, Trotter, Scott, Newsday columnist Ellis Henican and Fox News contributor James Pinkerton are seen preparing to go on the air when Miller says, "Oh, I do have something to say about Palin. I even prepared it. ...
eric seiger
eric seiger
Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our news of Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3.
Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales Xbox 360 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our Xbox 360 news of Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales.
The American Spectator : AmSpecBlog : Fox <b>News</b> Contributors Mock <b>...</b>
On the video, Miller, Trotter, Scott, Newsday columnist Ellis Henican and Fox News contributor James Pinkerton are seen preparing to go on the air when Miller says, "Oh, I do have something to say about Palin. I even prepared it. ...
eric seiger
Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our news of Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3.
Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales Xbox 360 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our Xbox 360 news of Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales.
The American Spectator : AmSpecBlog : Fox <b>News</b> Contributors Mock <b>...</b>
On the video, Miller, Trotter, Scott, Newsday columnist Ellis Henican and Fox News contributor James Pinkerton are seen preparing to go on the air when Miller says, "Oh, I do have something to say about Palin. I even prepared it. ...
eric seiger
Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our news of Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3.
Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales Xbox 360 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our Xbox 360 news of Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales.
The American Spectator : AmSpecBlog : Fox <b>News</b> Contributors Mock <b>...</b>
On the video, Miller, Trotter, Scott, Newsday columnist Ellis Henican and Fox News contributor James Pinkerton are seen preparing to go on the air when Miller says, "Oh, I do have something to say about Palin. I even prepared it. ...
eric seiger eric seiger
eric seiger
eric seiger
eric seiger
Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our news of Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3.
Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales Xbox 360 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our Xbox 360 news of Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales.
The American Spectator : AmSpecBlog : Fox <b>News</b> Contributors Mock <b>...</b>
On the video, Miller, Trotter, Scott, Newsday columnist Ellis Henican and Fox News contributor James Pinkerton are seen preparing to go on the air when Miller says, "Oh, I do have something to say about Palin. I even prepared it. ...
eric seiger
Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our news of Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3.
Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales Xbox 360 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our Xbox 360 news of Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales.
The American Spectator : AmSpecBlog : Fox <b>News</b> Contributors Mock <b>...</b>
On the video, Miller, Trotter, Scott, Newsday columnist Ellis Henican and Fox News contributor James Pinkerton are seen preparing to go on the air when Miller says, "Oh, I do have something to say about Palin. I even prepared it. ...
eric seiger
Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our news of Jill Valentine, Shuma Gorath for MVC3.
Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales Xbox 360 <b>News</b> - Page 1 | Eurogamer.net
Read our Xbox 360 news of Kinect doubles UK Xbox sales.
The American Spectator : AmSpecBlog : Fox <b>News</b> Contributors Mock <b>...</b>
On the video, Miller, Trotter, Scott, Newsday columnist Ellis Henican and Fox News contributor James Pinkerton are seen preparing to go on the air when Miller says, "Oh, I do have something to say about Palin. I even prepared it. ...
I have become happy to have a look at this newsletter after searching at google, after reading I have written a chunk of the article about what not to do after rhinoplasty Thank you for the thing and supporting me.
ReplyDelete