As we think about social media, social business and social employees, how will great companies use their employees to get ahead in the  Future of Marketing ? Today’s interview is with Cheryl Burgess (@ ckburgess ) who along with her husband  Mark Burgess (@ mnburgess ), has co-founded Blue Focus Marketing , and are also about to release their book on Social Employees. While many other books have written on either social business or social branding, few combined these topics to explore the real-world success stories of major brands. Photo Source. MORE >>

Social media has made it easier than ever to connect: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and other services have greatly amplified everyone’s personal brand message. Here are some tips from me and some of my social media friends on how to connect with people (as opposed to using them): Don’t be creepy. Social gifting via Facebook and other networks has started to change public perception. As travel blogger and social media consultant Ann Tran observes, “I’m not automatically your friend when you need your book promoted or reviewed. MORE >>

Despite the explosion in social network usage over the past few years, blogs still wield incredible influence over consumers. Recent findings contained in Technorati Media’s 2013 Digital Influence Report  shed some insight into how the seemingly magical world of digital influence works. Nearly 1 in 3 people say blogs are likely to influence a purchase (inching out Facebook and handily beating LinkedIn, Google+, Pinterest and Twitter). Note: This stat was from a Burst Media report released in June of 2012 but I thought it was worth sharing). Sometimes. MORE >>

Google Analytics has recently expanded its reporting option to include social media outlets. Through some great standard reports, you can view social conversions, engagement by source and social sharing. Social Value. Traffic Sources > Social > Overview). This is your top-level view the social media interaction with your site. With this view, you can see which social media outlets are sending visitors to your website. This includes every goal from every traffic source (not just social). Social Conversions. MORE >>

Now that the New Year is underway, the question I keep hearing on everyone’s lips is, “What’s the best advice for small businesses to increase their social media networking?” Fortunately, I have the privilege of being a part of a vibrant community of networking experts who were more than willing to share their wisdom and advice for small businesses in 2013. Carri Bugbee ( @ CarriBugbee ) – Founder, strategist & writer – Big Deal PR + Social Media : Make sure your employees mention your social profiles to customers. Spell it out. MORE >>