Social media now makes up more than 20 percent of all time spent online, and it's easier than ever to see the value it can have for businesses, brands, and even personal reputations. According to a Nielsen survey, 65 percent of social media users surveyed use social activities to learn more information about brands, products and services as they're making buying decisions. On top of that, increased adoption of mobile devices including tablets and smartphones provide the means for users to connect anywhere, at any time, meaning social media interactions can also happen anywhere, at any time.

For businesses, it can be a huge challenge to get everyone within an organization who will be participating in the social stream up-to-speed on policies, best practices, and integrated strategies, from how and what to blog about to social media's role in marketing campaigns. To help meet this challenge, Cisco Social Media Training offers on-demand courses and one-on-one team consulting to help partners realize and implement the benefits of social media in your organizations.

Cisco offers two complementary training options for Cisco partners: 

Social Media On-Demand Courses

Take introductory social media courses when it works with your schedule. Each course is 20-30 minutes in duration, and is accessible on-demand. These courses provide an overview for social media marketing including getting started, creating measurable programs, crisis planning, program integration and engagement workflows. Make sure to search for "Social Media" on thePartner Education Connection learning portal.

One-on-One Social Media Team Training Sessions

If your team is interested in a more customized learning setting, take advantage of the one-on-one team training program.. Meet with Cisco social media subject matter experts and focus training around your specific needs and goals, whether you're looking to launch your own training program or want details on how to conduct better, more effective social media listening. For more information, contact the Cisco Social Media Training and Enablement team to receive more program details.

Need marketing help beyond social media?

Cisco continues to offer Marketing Velocity programs to help Cisco partners learn about new marketing innovations and trends, get trained on cost-effective marketing techniques, and discuss best practices. With the annual live Marketing Velocity event, our On the Air virtual events, and our on-demand resources, we've got you covered for your marketing needs.

Will you be taking advantage of these free marketing and social media resources? Share you experience with us.