Spun Digital - Finding customers online

For an online business to be successful, it needs a good website optimisation campaign.

And one of the most effective ways to boost search engine optimisation (SEO) is to integrate it with social media marketing, according to the experts at First Click News.

The website notes that for the best website optimisation, updated and relevant content is key.

Further, sharing links via web comments is also important to generate traffic, as is synchronising your site with social media such as Twitter or Facebook.

"Now that Google has launched its real-time search features, Twitter tweets have more value," First Click News noted.

"Fellow Twitter and Facebook users will be able to visit your site and share it with others - so long as they find the content compelling and interesting."

SEO specialist Nathan McDonald has stressed the importance of integrating social media campaigns with other marketing ventures in order to maximise website optimisation potential.

"It's very important to align your social media activity with the rest of your marketing activity and not just Twitter, because it is just one part of a wider social media marketing strategy," he said.

In addition to entering into conversations with people who have shown interest in your company, social media can also be used to respond to criticisms and monitor customer service, Mr McDonald added.

Virgin Media is among many big-name brands giving their creative, direct and marketing agencies an overhaul in an effort to develop a more integrated approach to its communications.

Last month Virgin Media said it was evaluating "the benefits of integrating its approach across advertising, direct and digital campaigns".