I work with lots of individuals with products, services, and ideas to promote.

Invariably, they want as many people to know about them as fast as possible. I always struggle with explaining the harsh reality of marketing: effectively spreading messages doesn’t work like that. It takes work. And patience. And time.

Sometimes lots of time.

Connecting with as many people as possible on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter is not going to result in legions of raving fans overnight. As a matter of fact, you’re going to be largely ignored by most people (save for the once who are using you like you’re using them).

Even the mightiest army is comprised of individual soldiers.

Start by helping someone. Then help nine more people. Give them a place to learn more about the help you provide and the problems you’re solving and the ideas for which you stand. Keep doing that long enough and you’ll never have to worry about marketing again.

Get started now though.