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It’s becoming easier for small and large businesses embarking on marketing campaigns to create and reach their communities through social networking tools. Twitter, Facebook, and blogs for companies are now a dime a dozen—but not all are successful. Here are some of the best ways to track success, and reach social networking nirvana:

1. Google Analytics. If you don’t already have this set up, you’re missing out. It’s fairly simple, and is a great way to track “referral sources”—see exactly how many visitors came from Twitter, Facebook, Google, etc. and which keywords were used to find your website.

2. Twitter Incentives. Many businesses are tweeting coupon codes to their community which can then be tracked back to their websites and sales. Be creative, if you post a tweet that says the next person in your store to quack like a duck or sing the Star Spangled Banner will get a 50% discount, you’ll probably be surprised at the reception.

3. Ask Your Customers. Use “Where did you hear about us?” in your online order form. In a retail store, leave a “Thanks for following us on Twitter! Let us follow you back” sign on your counter and see how many customers will leave you their Twitter name. Above all—be yourself and keep contributing to the community.

Check out the full set of tips over at Java Social Networking, and share your tips for social networking success in the comments!

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