Basic [bey-sik]. Something that is fundamental; an essential ingredient, principle, procedure, etc.: to learn the basics of social media for business you should start with the following:

• Essential ingredient:  Information
• Principle: Adopt a plan of action
• Procedure: Make your plan a routine

Social Media – you've decided to give it a try and I'm sure you have it narrowed down to some pretty good ways your company can benefit from this new, effective method of online marketing. 

Now what?

• Gather your information: Company bios, current sale, directions, hours of operation, market tips, facts, quizzes. (You will be posting a status update to help you engage with your audience. Give them something great to read!)
• Plan of Action: How often will you post? Which employees will be posting? Who will reply to fan comments. Will this be a casual setting or strictly professional. Set a goal for yourself and follow it.
• Routine: Start out with a good routine of posting once a week. After you've stuck with that, bump it up to twice a week. ie: Every Monday morning. And stick with it.