Still trying to figure our social media marketing? You’re not alone.

Most small business owners - over three-quarters by some estimates - use some form of social media marketing to get the word out about their businesses. Social media marketing includes Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Avvo and much more. However, even though a huge number of businesses use social media, many confess they aren't really sure what they're supposed to be doing on it. If you're in the same boat, read on for some tips.

Not the usual marketing approach

The whole point of social media marketing is to get your former clients, current clients and potential clients involved. What do we mean by involved? You want them reading your posts on Facebook, following your comments on Twitter, checking out your new videos on YouTube - all so that you stay in their mind for when they need an attorney or when somebody they know needs an attorney. You do this with timely, interesting, relevant and sometimes humorous content. Don't be afraid to have fun and show your less serious side, just don't take it too far.

It's not about you

Sure, it is YOUR Facebook site or Twitter account, but keep in mind the golden rule of social media marketing - it is not all about you! If you prattle on about how great you and your firm are all the time, your followers will lose interest. Nobody likes to be marketed to all the time. Remember the point above - you want to get your followers engaged, and you get them engaged by posting things your followers care about. You'll do especially well if you can post content or comments that they'll want to "like", comment on, or repost on their own account.

Build trust with social media

Social media is a great way for a small business to show their strong roots in the community, to allow followers to get to know key employees, and to give potential clients an insight into your firm's culture and values. These are all opportunities for you to build a sense of trust and familiarity with your followers. Remember that hiring an attorney can be a daunting task - think of social media marketing as a way to gently woo your potential clients as well as a way to remind your current and former clients of your services.

Want to read more about how you can leverage the power of social media? Request your FREE copy of our newest book, "Smart Lawyers Are Using Social Media To Get More Cases Are You?"