For many small businesses, making the shift from traditional, "in-person" methods of marketing to digital marketing can seem daunting. It is a common misconception that online marketing is reserved for young people, and that many small businesses - especially those that have been around for a long time - have nothing to gain from an moving their marketing efforts online. However, while it might be the case that not every business in the whole world can benefit from using social media and other forms of digital marketing, it can't hurt to try. Here are four simple strategies you can implement at your business to help increase your customer base, spread awareness of your brand, and ultimately, to generate more revenue.

1. Build a community out of the customers that you already have.

One of the smartest tactics that any type of business can implement - be it a dry cleaners, a pet store, or a small restaurant - is by recognizing the clientele you already have. Once you create several social media accounts for your business on sites like Facebook, Twitter, Yelp!, Flickr, and more, start by telling your most loyal customers to visit you on these accounts. Then, you can interact with these customers and even feature them on these websites - maybe try a "Customer of the Month" campaign or something similar. Showing future customers that you have actual relationships with your customers is a great way to add a personal touch to your business and build a positive social reputation. Read more...