Though originally brainstormed in the 90s, the concept of social sharing didn’t really take off until the launch of Delicious in 2003. But it ascended with the rise of sites like Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Most of us realized the potential long ago, but it is still a treat to see that the use of the social sharing button is generating real results. Positive results at that.

A study conducted by SEO specialist BrightEdge Technologies backed up the growing notion that social sharing buttons are a viable way to increase the mileage of your marketing content. According to the firm’s report “Social-Share Analysis: Tracking Social Adoption and Trends,” using them could result in up to seven times more mentions for brands. In a shocker, Facebook was revealed as the most widely used tool for sharing content. Next was Twitter, followed by newcomer Google+, which surprisingly beat out social networking veteran LinkedIn. Overall, the data showed that sites with these buttons have the potential to do better than those without them.
Using Social Sharing Buttons the Right Way
So what’s the big take away here? That social sharing buttons can be equivalent to marketing gold when used correctly. Right on time, here are a few tips designed to help you use them effectively:Pick the Right Buttons – The report by BrightEdge shows that 53.6% of the top 10,000 internet sites have incorporated social sharing functionality through plugins or links. This means that less than half of them did not. While adding them is definitely important, so is knowing which buttons to use. The research suggests that Facebook is the best option, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it is the best choice for you. In the end, the best options for buttons will be those that accommodate the social presence you have already built thus far.Think outside the Box – When thinking of where to add social sharing buttons, the first place that comes to mind is probably the homepage of your website. While this is definitely an ideal location, you will give them greater visibility by placing them in more places. Social sharing buttons can work on other pages of your website, your blog and even the email newsletter you send to your subscribers every month. Don’t limit your potential by limiting where you place them.

Give ‘Em a Reason to Share – Adding social sharing buttons to your website, blog or newsletter is only half the battle. The second and most difficult half is actually getting people to use them. Simply sprucing up a page or post with a nifty button is not enough. You must complement it with quality content that compels your audience to share with the people in their inner social circle. It’s really as simple as that.

Using social sharing buttons definitely has its advantages. While you’re at it, don’t underestimate the importance of encouraging others to connect on your preferred social destinations. These connections can be just as rewarding as those shares in the long run.