Let go from one job before even graduating from college, Briana Bragg didn't want to experience another downsizing — so she started her own business. Business bragger Inc. is a professional blogging service for companies seeking to use new media and social networking to maximize and engage customer experiences on their websites.

This summer, Bragg is set to graduate from Florida Atlantic University, but she knew that would not guarantee she would find employment.

A recent National Association of Colleges and Employers survey showed more than half the responding seniors worried about job prospects, citing the economy.

Instead, Bragg, 23, identified a trend — a void and an opportunity. And new information validates her career path.Online Media Daily reported a study by Wetpaint and the Altimeter Group. They found companies with the highest levels of social media activity on average increased revenue by 18 percent in the last 12 months. The least active companies saw sales drop.

Bragg studied companies with existing blogs. She partnered with a website designer. She purchased website domain names. She stocked up on office supplies, a printer and fax machine. She incorporated. "I felt like it was my graduation," said Bragg.

Bragg markets to potential clients who want to obtain, increase and retain, clients via the Internet.

Joan Piantadosi knows blogging is a way to educate consumers about Titan Lists & Mailing Services Inc. that specialize in targeted marketing and direct mailing.

"I was trying to blog, but I couldn't get it to happen for me," said the Deerfield Beach-based business owner. "I was wearing too many hats, and I wasn't being effective."

Bragg taps into keywords and industry buzz to customize text for search engine optimization. Piantadosi said she sees results: an increase in inquiries and traffic to her website.

"Blogging is a wave of the future. It's an integral part of what new consumers will look for: interactivity," said Bragg. "I knew if I could explain this business to my parents, I was ready to start one."

Cindy Kent can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 954-356-4662. Follow her on Twitter.com @mindingyourbiz.