Toddd – I think one additional reason might be the simple fact that not everyone is comfortable or skilled with either technology or writing. Social media requires a greater-than-average use of both.

Also, I notice a tendency with new business owners to want to keep business and personal interactions in separate spaces. Social media usually blurs the line more than in-person networking, and that makes some people uncomfortable.

Another great post!

Whether I’m doing a formal presentation to a chamber of commerce or having a beer with a buddy, I see all kinds of light bulbs blinking on when I talk about using social media tools to identify and engage community to drive business development.

It’s when I leave the room that the progress seems to falter, that is, when it’s time to roll up their sleeves and do the work, they become a bit overwhelmed because, after all, we’re talking about small businesses here where time is their most presious commodity, even if it isn’t working capital.

It’s easy for the overworked small business owner to put off this channel, or simply add it to their to-do list along with new carpets, fresh paint or any number of other capital improvements.

I’m starting to have more success getting action when I’m able to do one of two things: show them how their competitors are using the tools, or show them the real data – an investment on my part – demonstrating in black and white the online behavior trends in their target demographics.

This post was mentioned on Twitter by toddschnick: Why Are We Failing To Help Small Business Understand Social Media? http://retwt.me/1pdcz…