People have a tradition of growing gardens during tough economic times.

Think of growing a social media garden as a way to feed your business.

People turn to gardens to produce their own feed when money is tight because though a garden requires a little more labor it can be very cost effective to grow. A packet of seeds cost a lot less then the vegetables those seeds will one day produce.

Social Media and Web 2.0 is a lot like that. Think of each Social Media outlet as a packet of seeds. You begin with a little research to see if a particular seed will grow in your climate and produce a fruit you desire. Will Twitter reach your market? Will Facebook get you the clients you desire? Can LinkedIn provide sustenance for your career? Before planting a seed it is good to know if it is a crop you desire.

Spend some time in other gardener’s gardens that are similar to what you hope your’s to be. What Social Media outlets do your competitor’s use? Are they healthy and growing? Or barren and full of weeds? What is your market using? The people you hope to reach are using social media, where are they? Start asking your current clients and customers where they can be found.

Social Media and Web 2.0 have the potential to explode in these economic times. The balance is shifting from disposable income to disposable time. People will be turning to the Internet seeking comfort and connection. Not to mention information and work. Will you and your business be there for them? Ready to help them? Is your garden in place? Don’t you think it is time you started to clear out your spot in the Social Media landscape?