Using Web 2.0 to promote your business

Technology has changed the way businesses interact with clients and prospects. We are now moving into a Web 2.0 era. As research shows, Web 2.0 allows users to participate in the web through applications like social-networking sites, video-sharing sites, and blogs. If you are not using Web 2.0 to enhance your presence, you may want to consider adding this to your business model.

Let’s take a look at some of the applications that are being used by various businesses.

Skype
An up and coming piece of software is Skype. Skype is a Voice over the Internet (VoIP) software application and service individuals can use to communicate via computer. Businesses are relying more on this software to conduct video calls with staff in various locations. Some businesses and entrepreneurs are also using Skype to provide music lessons, cooking lessons, and information sharing just to name a few ways.

YouTube
Another great piece of software businesses are using to leverage their visibility is YouTube. Playing for Change Foundation is a multimedia movement created to inspire, connect, and bring peace to the world. They visited countries like Bethlehem, Palestine, Barcelona, Spain, and Dublin, Ireland. Using multimedia technology, they pieced various video of musicians playing several songs (one being a famous Ben A. King classic “Stand By Me”). This organization has captured a new and captive audience using multimedia technology.

The company YouTube did something similar earlier this year. They conducted the first ever auditions through YouTube for individuals around the world to be a part of the YouTube Symphony in April 2009. There were 3,000 musicians who auditioned and 96 winning players were selected to perform at Carnegie Hall.

Research indicates:
- The average user spends about 30 minutes viewing videos.
- 20 – 30% of usage is within the U.S.

Facebook
Facebook is another forum businesses are using to establish a presence with clients and prospects around the world. Here are some prime examples of how businesses are using this social network to capture clients:

- Photographers share pictures from their portfolios.
- Nonprofit organizations promote various causes and events.
- Fashion designers share their designs.
- Graphic designers promote projects from their portfolios.

Many companies are starting to incorporate some of these Web 2.0 applications into their business model. As you can see, technology can enhance the visibility of your business.

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Reggie Waller is the president of RWJ Consulting Group a provider of business and personal coaching, consulting and training services to individuals and businesses. For additional information call 267-254-6800 or visit RWJ Consulting Group