An advisor’s guide to online marketing

There’s no question that social media websites have changed the marketing world, but how can an advisor take advantage of the vast reach of the internet?

The technological barriers to entry are ridiculously low, but financial advisors must ensure they remain onside with their compliance department and regulators. Even then, you must have something compelling to say, or you risk being lost in the noise of the web.

Here’s help on how to use social media to get your message out.

Social media can help advisorsWhen used effectively, social media is a valuable addition to the marketing mix of financial planners.

Follow the money, embrace social mediaMention social media to most advisors and they are more likely to think of their kids tweeting about the latest Justin Bieber track, rather than their high-net worth investors. But the wealthy are more interested in social media than you might think.

Help clients find you online The Web is now such a vital part of business development that it’s hard to imagine the first Web site was put up only 20 years ago. Still, many businesses haven’t taken the steps to establish and grow an online presence. So, where do you start? And how much will it cost?

IIROC guidelines meet Web 2.0 Canadian brokers have received an early Christmas gift in 2011: clarity in the regulations covering their use of social media.

Read Jay Palter’s blog

• Social media in 3 hours per week
• Curate content to build your brand
• Building Twitter influence

Find new clients online Before financial advisors leap into social media marketing campaigns, it is important to start with the basics.

Unleashing the power of LinkedIn LinkedIn is not just a business social network—it’s a great way to create your own brand. Few tools are as effective as LinkedIn Recommendations, a reputation engine that financial advisors can use to boost their profile, attract clients and differentiate themselves from peers.

8 tips from a LinkedIn expert When potential clients and partners search online for you, one of their first hits is likely to be your LinkedIn page. Don’t squander this opportunity to connect with clients. Kristina Jaramillo, a LinkedIn marketing expert, shares eight tips for sprucing up your profile.

Social Media full of potential clients Social media is the steering wheel that allows financial advisors to drive traffic in the opposite direction to the National Do Not Call List.

Advisor Audio: Video strategies that work Listen and learn. Managing Editor, Melissa Shin spoke to Chris Allen, the founder of Investius.