Overdrive Interactive recently released their “Social Media Map for Social Media Marketing.” The “map” provides more than 150 links OverDrive, “…thinks you should care about.”

For the advanced user, it is a great one stop shop of links and new sites to explore. However, for those new to social media, it graphically captures the perceived confusion which keeps so many watching from the sidelines.

No matter where you fit on the social media competence scale, the world of social media can be overwhelming. There is always something new and a seemingly never-ending list of “must read” blogs, forums and sites all demanding profiles, conversation and constant updates. At the same time, social media is here to stay and those who continue to ignore it risk being left behind by those who understand how to apply these online tools for business.

So what should you do?

Make a New Year’s Resolution to Learn One New Social Media Tool

No matter where you fit on the social media spectrum, make it a resolution to learn one new social media tool and apply it to your business. Here’s a few tips to help you get started:

• Set clear goals about what you want to accomplish using social media. Are you looking for new leads? A better way to communicate with your clients? Expand your business network? Setting clear goals before you start will help you maintain focus as you move forward.

• Use the social-media-map above and explore. Read blogs and other online guides. There is a ton of information out there filled with tips and best practices. Determine which social media tool will help you best accomplish your goals.

• Approach your new platform as a member of the community. This is not the place to spam or shout your message. Use the platform to communicate and converse. Offer something of value and you will  get a response.

• Participate, participate, participate

• Think of your new social media platform as a part of the bigger marketing picture. While you may not directly attribute sales your online presence, your online interactions tell your client something about you or your company. Online discussions can also turn cold calls into warm contacts and help your business stand out from the rest.

Fortunately, the learning curve for social media tools moves quick. For many, the hardest thing is just getting started.

My Personal Resolution

My resolution is to optimize Twitter and further use it to grow my business. I am currently experimenting with both Twhirl and TweetDeck and finding great tools using Tweetlater. Twitter is getting a great deal of buzz at the moment and I am quickly seeing why.

You can follow me at @jlcommunication and I’ll keep you posted on how it goes.

So What’s Your Resolution?

Need a little extra motivation? Make your resolution public. Tell us in the comments below how you plan to use social media in 2009.

Jim Lodico is a freelance copywriter and public relations/social media consultant. To learn more about how Jim can help your business, visit www.jalcommunications.com or contact him at www.jalcommunication.com/contact.