Tweets Aren't Just For The Birds

Tweeting is what birds do, and Four Square is a game kids play — right? Well, that’s half right. Twitter and FourSquare are two of several powerful social media programs connecting people in different formats.

While many of these programs appeared as fads when they came out, it’s clear to see that Facebook, Twitter and others are here to stay. These programs are mostly used casually, but they also are a powerful tool for a business’ marketing scheme.

Since 1996, Tom and Marjie Snyder, along with their staff at Trivera Interactive, have specialized in incorporating new technology into the marketing strategies of some heavy-hitting companies.

“When entered the market, and at the point a majority of CEOs of large companies thought the Internet was a fad,” said Tom Snyder. “When I saw the web, I saw that it could be a great commercial tool. But in the end, it’s all about using technology to build relationships with people.”

Now, according to a report on Socialmediatoday, 89 percent of companies say social media will become a useful cog in their marketing mix, and in 2011 marketers will increase their use of social media by 75 percent.

Snyder’s job continually evolves as new web-based networking platforms emerge. His job is to find a way to apply these new technologies to benefit business. Trivera has been on the forefront of using platforms like Facebook and Twitter for business.

Snyder can accurately be described as a social media guru. Perhaps his more than 10,000 followers on Twitter can attest to that.

On Thursday, Trivera Interactive is sponsoring a free social media instructional for businesses in the Menomonee Falls area from 4 p.m to 6 p.m. at the RBG Bar and Grill in the Radisson Hotel. The one-hour presentation will cover a basic introduction to social media, and experts will be on hand to help you get started.

“Using social media effectively takes a lot of effort and it needs to be consistent and dedicated,” Snyder said. “There is a time investment involved, and you want to make sure you are doing the right things to make it worth the time.”

Snyder’s team at Trivera has handled the web marketing strategies for Mitchell International Airport, significant political campaigns, Usinger's, Potowatami Bingo and Casino, and Regal Ware to name a few.

Snyder said social media, when used effectively, can help small businesses tap into the niche markets that can keep their businesses successful. It’s a marketing tool that is effective, but also free.

“Those businesses in downtown (Menomonee Falls) are competing with the big boys down along County Line Road and Appleton Avenue,” Snyder said. “The beauty of social media is that you can tap into new markets, target them geographically and build a following.”

There is still time to enroll in the program Thursday. Your Menomonee Falls Patch editor will also be in attendance to offer some tips on social media engagement as well.