This Article from AdWeek shows the mainstream adoption of social media by client side marketers nationwide.

In a nutshell:  65% Of the professionals polled stated that search engine marketing through Google, Bing and others were the most effective new-media means of attracting customers.  A smaller 59% thought their own web sites were the most effective means.

Email marketing received 45% of the respondents saying they use the platform for marketing.  This is a lot lower than I think that it would be.  No mention is made if this is a trend that is increasing/decreasing.  I find that email marketing is a very effective means of reaching customers and staying top of mind.

As can be expected, of huge concern for those polled are the inability to prove return on investment (ROI).  This is somewhat founded with FaceBook, Twitter and LinkedIn, but is not true when looking at Google AdWords.  One of the benefits to using social media through the web is the ability to track.  We use Bit.ly to gauge the effectiveness of a Twitter link and for each promotion that is web-only we have been known to slightly change what needs to be printed out and redeemed to gauge proper wording and promotional content.  This takes smart marketing to track, but it definitely can be done.

Most used new-media websites for marketing

1. Facebook - 74%
2. Twitter -     65%
3. YouTube -  65%
4. LinkedIn -  60%

Read on for more information about where the monies came from to fund these new media trends.  (more...)