Following and Liking Social Media
Social media has revolutionized the world as we know it. Childhood friends reunite, talented performs get discovered, and more people try to DIY. That’s just scratching the surface.
From a business perspective, social media has transformed advertising too. Customers no longer have to flip through the yellow pages to find a florist, doctor, etc. (Flashback: yellow pages were the business section of the phone book, which back in the day was how people found a local phone number and address.) With social media, customers can search a business and find more than their contact information. As a business owner, you need to apply a social media strategy to increase your presence and monitor feedback on your brand.
1. Targeting Your Audience
Your business plan includes a product or service and a customer need. You should already know your target audience, but what’s the best way to reach them? What’s the best way for them to follow you? With so many online apps to choose from, do your homework to position your company on the best platform.
- LinkedIn – With 500 million members, the world’s largest professional network can connect you with peers, promote your business, help you network with other industry professionals and find new talent.
- Facebook – Over two billion people have Facebook accounts. Having a Facebook page can expand your reach and brand exposure, and also offer a personal look into the people within your company, humanizing your business.
- Instagram – Over 400 million active daily users share and view visually engaging content; 53% of users follow their favorite brands.*
2. Using the Best Tools
Laptop, tablet, cell phone – so many choices. So many ways for people to access information. Most people prefer a certain resource for searching, and how to view their results. Choose the best tools to reach your audience – text, image, video (maybe all three). Regardless, keep your tone and style consistent and consider timing with all posts.
3. Engaging Your Customers
Your customers don’t just represent a “thumbs up” on a website. They represent an opportunity to expand your brand. When your business connects with a customer via social media, your network grows, providing you the opportunity to reach more customers.
- Reach out to customers via email and ask them to like your Facebook page.
- Offer customers incentives for product or services reviews.
- Encourage diners to post tempting photos of their meals on Instagram.
- Direct customers to testimonials on YouTube.
- Invite customers to special (sales, information, demonstration, tour) events.
4. Knowing Your Competition
Do you constantly see your competitors’ posts on Twitter or other social media sites? They realize the impact these channels have on reaching potential customers. Consider innovative ways to establish a loyal fan base. Remember, your brand awareness doesn’t always need to come from self-promotion. Post stories, offer insights and meaningful content. Engaging with your customers on this level will generate another form of interaction.
Invest in your social media marketing strategies to engage with current and potential customers. But set realistic goals – the internet is a vast web that can work for you or against you. Take charge of your brand messages today and get a big thumbs up!
*Gramlike
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