We love social media for increasing reach and awareness - the early stage of lead generation. The major sites that companies across the globe, and across all industries are seeing results from are: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google+ and Pinterest. Location based apps like; Facebook Places and Yelp are growing in popularity and are a great way to promote specials and draw customers into a store front. 
The latest stats show that social media is on the increase. Check out this short video on what some are calling the Social Media Revolution. The stats will astound you!
Source: State of Inbound Marketing Report -http://bit.ly/aewfHr
To be successful with social media it's important to understand the purpose it will serve for lead generation in your business. This will help with strategy, tactics and reporting. Whether its B2C or B2B, promoting a special or directing prospects to an online store - customers first need to know you exist, and then trust you before buying. Social media strategies should be focused on building relationships; listening, engaging and having conversations with your prospects, industry, peers and customers - this will set you up for success with; lead generation, customer conversion and referrals. Here are three important social media marketing tips to remember: