As a marketing professional who has worked in the social media arena for quite some time, I find that many business owners and managers have a lot in common when it comes to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and so on. While most just don’t have the time to focus on social media, others aren’t sure where to begin. Plain and simple, they know it is important, but they aren’t exactly sure why or what to do with it.
Enter me; I love to talk social media. I find it fascinating. I think Facebook is a gift to the world. Yes, it has its moments, specifically during election years, but for the most part, social media is amazing. When used strategically, communicating and marketing via social media can be a positive force, both socially and in business.
How can social media work for your business, you ask? OK, let’s talk social media. Social media is a magical communication platform. If you are consistent in your messaging, you have the power to create a voice that will represent your business. If done correctly, like Forrest Gump, people will start to follow you.
You are an Expert. Be the Expert.
If your social media business account has followers, you have won half the battle. Obviously, the more followers your account has the better. There are strategies, both organic and paid, that can increase your number of followers on different social media platforms (another day, another blog). These people are following you for a reason. They like your company and want to hear what you have to say. You are an expert at what you do, so share your expertise with the world.
Share Tips
This is an easy way to create content. Come up with a list of tips related to your business and create individual posts per tip. Go a step further and create a step-by-step “how-to” video. Videos are an extremely popular way to share information and build credibility. I once watched a step-by-step video on how to fold a fitted sheet. It blew my mind. I have also watched videos on how to unclog my washing machine drain hose and how to remove the center console of my car when I needed to fish out a pretty important key that I had dropped down a crevice.
Make it Interesting
OK, so not all businesses and products are super exciting. If yours fall into this category, don’t let that stop you from posting. But if you are going to post something, make it interesting. You can certainly post for the sake of posting, but if you want engagement, give your audience something to talk about.
Keep it Positive
People are drawn to the positive. Share good news. Share your excitement about a new product or service. Focus on an employee of the month. Take a group photo of your team smiling at the camera, and then tag everyone in the photo (this will increase the number of people you reach). Use eye-catching images that people want to share. Post a photo of a sunset in your community and share your gratitude. Take advantage of the hashtag #motivationmonday and post inspiring quotes each week.
Use Humor
People love to laugh. They also love to share funny posts. While your products or services may not be funny, you can deliver your messaging in a light, humorous tone.
Know Your Audience | Play Nice
My rule of thumb has always been that if my mom wouldn’t like it, I shouldn’t post it. When it comes to exposing your business on social media, treat it like a dinner party. You are there to have fun, be polite, make friends, and share interesting information and stories. It is called “social” media for a reason, right?
Still not sure how to approach social media for your business? Give Prime a call, we help businesses find their social media voice. We work with clients to create consistent messaging that builds brand awareness and gets noticed.
