Using Social Networking as a Marketing Tool

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Denis Niblett, PhD on March 13, 2010 at 12:21am

I find it highly unlikely that anyone looking for a solution to a problem they have will turn to one of the social networking sites for help. What will make a chronic depressive think "I know, I'll look on Facebook?"

In the same way, telephone books and directories such as Yell and Thomson are only of value if the person involved knows that they need to find a hypnotherapist. If only it was that easy!

I have tried advertising in local newspapers, the above mentioned directories, even "esoteric" magazines, and all have either just managed to pay for themselves, or have been a waste of money.

So what does work? A good website optimized to get a good ranking on the main search engines works for me.

The down side is that if you are not a complete internet geek with a lot of spare time you will need to pay big money to have your website developed, continually updated, and more importantly optimized for the search engines. One company offered to help me with the optimization for "around £4000 to £6000 per year". I wonder how much custom they get?

Naturally I will be more than delighted to read of alternative methods of bringing in clients, so I'll be watching this space!

Permalink Reply by Mark Davis on March 13, 2010 at 12:50am

The point is to develop a social network of people interested in your profession and your views, topics, comments etc regarding your profession. At the same time letting the rest of your social network know what you do. If you aren't comfortable doing that then you need to think why?
It isn't about "pushing" yourself to your social network. It is about being who are you are presenting your professional and business face as well (e.g. on the Fan page that you setup for your business on Facebook).
If you are feeling awkward about being a hypnotherapist and letting everyone know that is what you do - then you need to look into that.
Letting your social network (both via Social Networking websites and your in person social network) know what you do will naturally generate some very good business as insomnia, anxiety, smoking, habit control are issues that many in your social network will have - or will pass your name on to others.
Be proud of being a hypnotherapist!