Have you been hearing about Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, LinkedIn, Google+ Business Pages, YouTube, and other social media channels, but you are just not sure where to begin? When it comes time to set up your marketing on social media, and build digital branding, what is right and what is not for your business?

There are several factors to consider before you ever begin setting up social media platforms. The first thing to be aware of is that social media requires a long-term, ongoing time commitment. This may be time you do not have.

Second, not every platform is for you. Some will almost seem tailor-made for your small business, while others may be so complex that they seem like the last thing you’d want to get involved in.

Third, nothing takes the place of your website. In fact, all social media should link to and be linked from a well functioning, quick loading, mobile-ready website.

That said, let’s look at some of the most popular social media platforms which could have a big impact on your personal digital branding.

Facebook. By far, this platform is the biggest and most popular. One of the nice things about Facebook is that you can start your very own business page, separate from any Facebook profile already in existence. Fans find it easy to like your page, share your posts and comment on all of your good news. Every business should have a Facebook presence.

Twitter. Here you can follow people and they can follow you back. If you’re big into events or special occasions, Twitter can be the place to be, as the use of hashtags will only make events you have set up that much more impressive. You can go a long way on 140 characters or less. Companies with lots of news to share daily shine in the Twitter spotlight.

Google+. In addition to having a Google Plus Business Page, sharing content about your company on Google+ itself is a great way to get your message out. Here you can establish Communities and Circles to build brand awareness.

Pinterest. This venue relies heavily on what is seen more than what is read. Images prevail, and ‘pins’ which are created through Pinterest are very influential with followers. Fashion designers, photography, crafters, DIYer’s, and other home-centered businesses thrive on Pinterest.

LinkedIn. This social platform is for professionals all about professionals. It is a great tool for networking and getting your business known across your town with a local directory, or across the world. You can quite easily become a trusted source of information by being well known on LinkedIn.

Trust your social media platforms to a company like Fasturtle, experienced in marketing on social media. Contact us today, so we can set up exactly what your business needs!