Do you ever wonder why some business people choose to practice social media marketing? I mean, there are some folks who aren't quite ready for prime time. I don't want be snooty about this, but, come on. How credible can they be when they present themselves (and their brands) like dummies?

So, you want examples, eh? Well, I can't link to specific pages because that would be just plain mean---besides being highly risky for litigation. But, I'll tell you about a few I've seen lately on Twitter.

Example #1
A social media company that provides social media marketing services to businesses has 175 followers on Twitter, follows around 650, and is on 5 lists. The author has written a total of 10 posts. Huh?

As if that isn't enough, here's the copy that appears on the company's Twitter page: "Social Media Services Ofeered"

Now, would you contact this company for social media marketing assistance?

Example #2
How about the man whose Twitter page says he's been a general contractor for years? In his bio, he mentions all the nice outdoor activities he's done in his life. First impression from the photo and the intro? Nice smiling guy in his 60s who probably wants to connect with new people who enjoy the same things. NOT!

Click on the link to his Website, and what smacks you in the face? A sensational headline and high-pressure multilevel marketing pitch with video and an "act now" message. What a disconnect.

Example #3
A professional in my target market began following me recently. I clicked on his profile to check it out. A large message greeted me that says:

This person has protected their tweets.
You need to send a request before you can start following this person.

Is there any wonder that he has only 63 followers? Doesn't this strategy defeat the entire purpose of social media networking?

OK, your turn. Got any social media marketing dummy stories to share?