PQ Council Recap: Social Media, Banner District

The Rancho Peñasquitos Town Council held its monthly meeting on Thursday.

Here are some of the highlights:

• Building your business through social media: Joann Whetstine of HowDoIMarketMyBiz.com gave tips on using Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn to improve business exposure and attract new clients. "I would not open a social account if you do not have time to manage it," Whetstine said, emphasizing the need to post daily on Twitter and Facebook, and update your business website with blog posts or fresh content at least once a week. Her tips:
  
  • On Twitter: Create or have someone design a custom background for your online Twitter page. Designs also can be found on sites like twitbackground.com.
  • On Facebook: Images and videos are clicked on the most so incorporate those when possible. Link back to blog posts on your website. Engage with people on your page by responding to comments. Make sure you have a fan page that is easy to find, using the keywords people would search for when trying to find your business.
  • On LinkedIn: Upload your picture and connect with everyone you know. When you meet someone and get their business card, add them on LinkedIn because you never know when that connection could be helpful.
  • On YouTube: All you need is a camera to shoot a 30-second clip of someone talking about your business or providing a "tip of the day," Whetstine said. Make sure your business' YouTube page shows users how to get back to your website or get in touch with you.
  • On Websites: "Once someone takes the time to visit your site, you don't want to lose them." Make a "call to action" visible on the site, encouraging people to sign up for your newsletter or interact with you in other ways. Make sure content is updated at least once a week. Creating a blog is a good way to do this, making sure you're using popular keywords.
• Mayoral Debate: The top four candidates (Carl DeMaio, Bonnie Dumanis, Bob Filner, Nathan Fletcher) have been invited to an April mayoral candidate debate co-sponsored by the Rancho Bernardo Community Council and the PQ Town Council. Dumanis and Filner have confirmed. The date has not yet been set.
• Grants: The council approved a $300 grant for Mount Carmel High School's improv team for a performance trip in May. Also approved was a $300 grant for the Los Peñasquitos Academy, a program at Los Peñasquitos Elementary School which provides additional instruction for a cohort of students.
• Banner District: Photos of 40 people who work or have experience with space and space exploration will be used in banners in conjunction with the Del Mar Fair. The council is looking for people willing to submit their photos or have their pictures taken. .
• Gary Pehaim: The council held a moment of silence for treasurer Gary Pehaim, who died on Christmas Day. A memorial service for Pehaim is scheduled for Saturday. .

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