These principles are applicable regardless of the technology you used and it apply to social media too.

Respect other people

Whether you are using email, instant messaging or any social media applications, don’t spam people. If things are annoying to you don’t do it to others. Don’t post your website link on other people’s Facebook wall blindly without provide any valid purpose. Only do it if someone is having a problem and you think you can help. Provide him some suggestion and refer him to your specific place on your site that explain similar problem otherwise do not just post a link.  Post it at your own status is fine.

Don’t manipulate on Social Media because it can backfire

Did you hear the story of how the CEO of a top grocery chain got busted for pretending to be a customer and praising the company in the forums?. It is damaging to the company when someone discovered his identity when it was made public.

Understand the culture of social media

Understand the culture of each of this site. Watch out for things people talk about and find opportunity to give your comments or click on the “Like” on Facebook. By giving comments and click on the “Like” others can also find you and your network will increase. In this way you have already done your marketing without having to be pushy or annoying.

Your goal is not just the traffic

Traffic is nice but should not be the only goal of social media marketing.Some people use social media as a means of attracting traffic to their Web sites. Although traffic is a good but should not be the end result. Most importantly is to convert them to real sales. So don’t loose sight.

Use your real name

Create a business page but response using real person identity. People like to communicate with real people.

Be proactive

Try reaching out to people and start communicating with people on Facebook. Write a short status asking for a comment and you will surprise that you can start a chain of comments.

Once you understand the main purpose of any social media site, you can do a lot more to increase your traffic to your Website and grow your business. Don’t turn off users, but to engage, intrigue and excite them.