It seems some people, who will not be named here, think that social media encompasses only Facebook and Twitter. Ok, I do agree that these are the big two and garner a great deal of attention due mainly because they carry so much social content. However, for those that aren’t dealing with social media everyday there are literally hundreds of sites that fit within the social sphere. Some, like YouTube and Flikr, are well known but not all realize that they are considered social sites because they enable connections and sharing. And there are many, many more.  From Crocheting to Vampires, there is a social network for what interests you.  So if you want to learn about other social networking sites check out wikipedia for a fairly comprehensive list.  Here are a few lesser known but interesting sites that you may want to add to your favorites or blocked site lists.  What uncommon or odd social sites do you visit?

Stumbleupon – presents subscribers with sites that like-minded stumblers have recommended. Great for those with AD&D.

Last.fm – If you love listening to music and love talking about, telling others about, and getting deep into it, then this site may be for you. Yelp! – Looking for a place to go eat, drink and be merry?

Yelp! Helps you find it and then you can provide your feedback and share with the world and your friends.

Buzznet – For the trendsetters out there that want to keep up to date on what’s happening in music and pop culture.

Goodreads – Are you a bookworm? Want to meet others or create your own online book club? This site provides the forum for doing just this. Get reading recommendations and share your thoughts.

WAYN is a travel and lifestyle network that helps you to keep track of all your contacts from around the world and make new friends based on where you are now, where you have been and where you are going!

Vampirefreaks.com – The name of this site pretty much sums it up but to be more specific they are catering to the gothic and industrial subculture. The brand name of their clothing line pretty much sums up what they are about.

Raverly is a free site for lovers of knitting and crochet and, perhaps, the most opposite of Vampirefreaks possible. Would be fun to see what happens if these two were switched for a day.

Italki.com provides forum for people interested in learning a new language and for those who already know one to show how smart they are.

Daily Strength – Find the 12-step program of your choice here or build your own, create a support network with others, share your problems and coping strategies with people in the same boat.

Science Stage - ScienceStage.com is a virtual conference room, lecture hall, laboratory, library, and meeting venue all in one. It offers new methods of scientific presentation, scientific discourse, and academic knowledge transfer by using video streaming, audio streaming, and text features

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Have you created videos, digital commercials, or presentations for your business?  If so then you should consider posting these on YouTube as part of your online marketing strategy.   In case you weren't already aware of this, YouTube currently ranks second, only to Google, in total search inquiries.  However it is not enough to simply post your video.  You must optimize it for search.  Fortunately, Constatine Roussos of SEOTV has written an excellent article detailing how to improve search engine optimization for your videos.  And if you're wondering whether video is right for you, check out "Should Video be part of your Marketing Campaign". 

Click on the picture below to go the full article.

There are many elements to a Social Media Marketing plan and one of the most engaging is video.  A video allows your prospective clients to get a glimpse of what you offer, including your approach to solving their problem, your level of knowledge in the area of interest, and your business's personality.   Basically, video offers an opportunity to show and tell your message on a very personal level.

To consider how video might impact your customer base, think about how some television commercials have influenced you over the years.  I'm sure there are a few that have stuck with you for years.  Now think about the growth in the Infomercial space.  You can't turn on the TV after midnight without finding one on some channel.  What do each of these offer?