Updated on Feb 26th, 2026

Social Media is everywhere and it is starting to play a major role in the workforce as part of a company’s marketing strategy…the question becomes when to use social media and how to use it?

I am currently working as an intern at Echidna, and one of my tasks was to think about “Social Media Best Practices” that an organization like yours should follow when using Twitter, Tweetdeck, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

These practices help companies build, develop, and measure success in the world of Social Media.

There are five standard rules or guidelines to follow when thinking about using Social Media for yourself or your company.
  1. Allocate The Time: social media does not have to be time consuming, however, the more time and effort you invest in connecting with prospects, customers and your network, the more you will get out of it.
  2. Share: share photos and key information about your business. Take an active role to contribute to the standing and insight of your brand.
  3. Listen and Respond: it is important to regularly monitor the comments about your company, brand, and products. In return, ask questions of your followers on each social media platform to learn valuable insight on how to improve your product or service.
  4. Be a Leader: demonstrate knowledge by referencing articles and links as it relates to your business. 
  5. Engage: engage with customers, prospects and your network to contribute, learn and discover. Those online are sharing opinions and making decisions based on the information that is provided to them. Engagement is a powerful way to reach and serve customers on a continuous basis.
I hope these pointers lead you and your company to new business opportunities, greater brand awareness and most importantly you establish a positive online presence. Whichever platform you choose to use, make sure you know the “Best Practices” for each one to get the most out of using social media. 
Good luck!