As you can imagine it takes time to build a network of friends, to establish followers and to build connections.  So the sooner you start the sooner you start to build your network and reputation.  For some of you, you might be thinking that your industry hasn't yet fully adopted social media or your prospects aren't using social media for business. Let's assume you're correct, its only a matter of time until they do and when they start will they find you or your competition.  Who will have the voice of authority with the online community you or your competition? Because of the time it takes to build your network and online authority the tougher it is for your competition, thus giving you a head start, competitive edge.

Who will have the voice of authority with the online community you or your competition?

Here are 6 Ways Social Media will help you get closer to achieving your business goals for 2010. 

1. Generate inbound links to your website. This will boost your organic rankings.

2. Connect with your customers. Listen to what they're saying about your company or product.

3. Connect with your prospects. Listen to what they're saying about your industry, competitors and you.

4. Increase traffic to your website

5. Build a credible reputation, a voice of authority in your industry.

6. Promotion and exposure of your company, product or service.

What will this mean for your business?

1. You'll increase the quality of traffic and leads to your website.
2. Customer relations:  By connecting with, and listening to your customers you'll be able to provide value-added customer service, especially if there is any negativity about your product or service that you need to address before it spreads.
3. Market Research: By connecting with and listening to your customers and prospects you'll be able to monitor what is happening in your industry, with your competitors and adjust your product or service accordingly to meet the market's needs.
4. Building a credible reputation based on your expertise in the industry will increase your followers and provide a platform for launching your promotions, products, brands etc. It will promote confidence in your prospects' minds, and a willingness to convert.
5. No longer do you need to wait for the media to get hold of your press release, or pay for expensive advertising on tv and print media. Your audience is now the media.