Have you ever heard of Brian Solis and his Social Marketing Compass?

I hadn’t either, well, until earlier today when I attended a social media lunch and learn at Waterloo’s Accelerator Centre. Today’s speaker, Melissa Schenk from MS2 Productions, introduced us to the compass as we explored effective ways that businesses are leveraging social media outlets (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn) to connect with customers, peers and influencers, and how some have successfully made their customers true “brand ambassadors” of their company and it’s products and services through social media and viral marketing.

Solis is recognized as a leading-thinker when it comes to new media, and his compass serves as a true physical indicator that companies should consult as they define their social media strategy. Check it out using the link above and use the Social Marketing Compass to establish a solid social media direction for your company.

11 Companies You Should Follow on Twitter

Are you new to the challenge of engaging your customer base in 140 characters or less? Or does Twitter leave you as confounded as my first sentence? Sorry bout that by the way…

Twitter is a free online forum that has almost 100 million users—which means you should be taking advantage of it if you’re not tweeting already. Even better, Kermit Pattison from The New York Times recently introduced his small business tips for using Twitter—including 11 prime examples of large-middle-and small businesses that are commendably taking advantage of Twitter and all it has to offer.

My advice, check out Pattison’s list—it includes the likes of large corporations like Rubbermaid, UPS and my favorite shoe king Zappos, as well as mid to smaller companies like Naked Pizza and Kiss My Bundt what the heck wouldn’t you?—for some 140-character examples of engaging tweeting.