Whether you’re a small company who has been in operation for over 20 years (like us) or a new corporate powerhouse, the same holds true: It is very easy to get set in your ways and become comfortable with your preferred methods of doing business. The fear of the unknown gives us an excuse to hibernate in our comfort zone but with the fresh slate of a new year and all the promise it holds, there is no better time to acknowledge mistakes from the previous year and address changes that can make a positive impact this time around.

For many Baby boomers and even Gen X individuals, the biggest challenge is understanding the digital landscape, especially when it comes to implementing the platforms in a business setting but ready or not, “Social media is a gold rush, with companies and consultants of all sizes and descriptions jockeying for a piece of a pie estimated to be $1.6 billion in the U.S. alone.” (source) So, how can business owners and entrepreneurs alike wade through all the noise and focus on the most sound practices for 2015?

Here’s 5 places to start:

1. Video content: Videos can be more engaging than text or still photos because they appeal to the senses of both sight and sound, and they are some of the most shared pieces of content on the web. Diversify by executing podcasts and regular blog posts, as these methods are continuing to climb to fame through social engagement and limitless viral possibilities.

1. Information sharing: Youtube is no longer the alpha male thanks to sites like SlideShare. Create and distribute presentations to meet goals of scoring page views, creating leads and developing a great portfolio of reputable content. SlideShare is great for B2B marketing and not to mention, very simple to learn and utilize. You heard it here first, SlideShare is the new video king of 2015.

1. Paid Ads: A platform like Twitter is considered a great marketing channel for driving traffic but why not consider enhancing your organic efforts with some of the paid promotional opportunities they offer? Using Twitter Ads is an easy way to get your tweets in front of larger audiences than just those who follow you and it’s super simple. Try a promoted tweet which allows you to craft messages to promote your content and link to your landing pages, where Twitter users can then convert on your offers and become leads. Bonus: You only pay when users interact with your tweet.

1. Google+: Despite being the second biggest, Google+ is the least well-known and most misunderstood of the social networks. Being on Google+ is a must, especially for any small business because the platform works hand- in-hand with Google Search. What does that mean for you? Potentially ranking higher on search results and the ability to draw customers in by providing your key business information.

1. Personal communication: Now a days, there is an increased demand for more personal interaction with fans and followers. This means that people want to know they are talking to an actual person, not just a logo that represents the brand. This approach puts a face to a company name and lets your followers feel like they are truly a part of the conversation surrounding your business and the industry.