A common theme on many social marketing site is that only way to succeed on social networking and social bookmarking sites is by being social; in other words socializing. That then raises the question, ‘what does it mean to socialize?’.
The more I thought on that question the more I came to realize that a humble post such as this cannot answer that question. There are literally thousands of social networking or social bookmarking sites spread across the internet. They range from the small niche sites to the enormous get lost in the crowd Facebook, Digg, StumbleUpon and Myspace type sites.
Each and every one of these sites has their own rules and terms of engagement. The only way you will ever learn how to socialize effectively is by visiting these sites, reading their terms and ‘talking’ to others within the communities.
Every site is different. Some sites will allow you to place a link to your webpage in your profile; others will not. Forums generally do not links within the posts, however you can often place a link in your signature. The only way you will know what is acceptable is by reading their terms.
The only advice and social marketing expert can provide when it comes it to socializing on a social networking or social bookmarking site is to participate and to participate as fully as the rules (written and unwritten) allow you.
I include unwritten as there are some sites, and forums are a good example, that frown upon newbies coming in and suddenly inserting links everywhere, even though the sites conditions allow for it. Participate, get a feel for the site, get a name and a small following, then use the full potential of the site.
WOW, it is about time someone besides me came out and said this. In my prior comment I ranted about how anyone can expect that a social site is going to do you any good when all you do is submit your own content.
Social marketing is about being social, so go be social. Commenting on others blog and especially on the post on the social site is your front line in social marketing.
Most social site users do not want to go to the parent site of the post. They want to stay right there in their social network. Digg users especially.
Commenting on the post, at the social sites is the best way to make friends and influence people. Your friends list is just as important as your email newsletter list. Treat your friends list like gold and they will return the favor.