Just getting here now? You’ve got some catching up to do:  

Tip #1: Don’t reinvent the wheel
Tip #2: Commit, don’t campaign
Tip #3: Think web presence, not website
Tip #4: Set a content schedule
Tip #5: Encourage participation
Tip #6: Ask, don’t tell
Tip #7: Make measurement a priority
Tip #8: Bring on the right people
Tip #9: Use video
Tip #10: Recognize that new media eventually becomes just… media
Tip #11: Integrate it

“It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.” — Charles Darwin

Above all, the best social media tip we can give to our clients, our friends and ourselves is to embrace it. This form of networking and advertising is not fleeting, and the sooner you get on board, the happier you will be with the results.

Try new things, stepping outside of your comfort zone. Let curiosity guide you into new platforms—perhaps one with each month of the New Year—and investigate all they have to offer you. Once you’ve mastered the main players, let the trends of the industry steer you, dipping your toe into whatever and wherever your audience has decided to explore next. If your customers and clients are there, you should be, too.

In an eMarketing 2009 marketing trends report, 59% of respondents already have social media within their 2010 strategy and 28% have plans to implement it within the coming 12 months. Be part of this cohort that is embracing change. If others in your industry aren’t yet taking advantage of social media, be the first—be a pioneer. If the competitor already has 500 Twitter followers, consider moving on to something different, like a blog or weekly podcast. Be a leader, not a follower and carve out a niche that will make your brand unique.

Social networks, when used properly, can give your brand more visibility than ever before. By offering value in your interactions, you are building a memorable and engaging relationship that reaches out to your customers in a new and noticeable way.

This Christmas, be social in more ways than one.

Collaboration is a huge part of what we do. And creative minds don't always think alike. But that's what keeps things interesting around here. This post was written in cooperation by members of the Trampoline Branding staff.