Many small business owners in Iowa are trying to navigate the world of social media in hopes of boosting their bottom lines. Dina Bechman, an Iowa art dealer, took part in a Facebook Community Boost – as officials with the social media giant hosted a training session in Des Moines.
Last week, Facebook announced a partnership with Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) to develop a new Digital Marketing Certificate program, which aims to teach students how to maximize Facebook and Instagram marketing.
“Was some of it repetitive for me? Of course, because I’m pretty well involved with social media,” Bechman said. “But, were there some ‘a-has’ of things I wasn’t doing? Or ‘that’s how you do that?’ Absolutely. Having Facebook come to town and help train people and teach people how to have a social media presence, and some of the tools available once you have one, was pretty amazing.” Like most small business owners, Bechman has a minimal marketing budget. But, she’s spending a few dollars on social media in hopes of drawing more traffic to her store and website.
Locally, Southeastern Community College has had a digital marketing program for several years. Their two-year program teaches students online marketing, and graphic design skills. Graduates receive an Associate of Arts and Sciences Degree.
