What impact has social networking had on your success?

Gail Lewis is the executive marketing director at Gail's Graphic Designs. Her responsibilities include: sales & marketing and art direction. Lewis' career achievements include: Contributing writer to "Mind Your Business" column in Your Money eZine (Jamaica's premier business and financial eZine). Lewis is affiliated with American Marketing Association. What impact has social networking had on your success? Many companies are starting to realize the myriad benefits of implementing a comprehensive, cohesive and cross-platform social networking strategy. The ability to connect with one's core audience and receive instantaneous feedback has significantly enhanced the way organizations conduct their business, and the companies that have their fingers on the pulses of their customers will ultimately experience greater rewards. As a marketing professional, small business owner and early adopter of many social networking innovations, I have helped implement a wide array of strategic social media initiatives for my clients—both in the real estate industry and otherwise—that have been critical for brand building; developing, maintaining and growing an audience; and the viral dissemination of new activity. Gail Lewis is the executive marketing director at Gail's Graphic Designs, Mt. Vernon, N.Y.