Social media is no longer just an accessory for businesses – it is now a must-have. Every business, regardless of its size, needs an active presence on social media websites to maximize exposure, drum up interest in its products, spread news and specials, and engage with existing and potential customers. To make the most of their social media presence, many businesses are investing in dedicated social media managers who can ensure that accounts are well-maintained, engaging, and effective.
Of course, no two businesses are identical, so each company must develop unique strategies that suit its specific goals and target audience. The tips below will help business owners and social media managers succeed with their social media efforts.
Building Your Social Media Strategy
Creating a successful social media presence requires dedication and some precedent-setting. First, consider what platforms fit the business model. Depending on the industry and the target audience, the following should be considered:
Facebook is versatile and can be used to reach people of all ages, while LinkedIn is best for professional and corporate networks.
Twitter is the easiest platform to communicate with the most followers and potential customers, while Instagram encourages interaction among customers through pictures and videos.
YouTube is the best platform for sharing videos and gaining organic traffic.
Once the networks are decided, research the social media base of each network and begin cultivating relationships with followers. Make sure that the content posted is consistent; interacting with customers as much as possible helps form relationships and builds trust with followers.
Scheduling Posts for Maximum Engagement
Social media managers should think strategically about when it is best to post content. Generally speaking, posts should be placed in the early morning or mid-afternoon when the most people are online and highly engaged. It is also beneficial to plan posts around events or holidays so that the post will get maximum visibility.
Using Analytics to Measure Success
Most social media platforms now have expansive analytics packages that provide data such as impressions, reach, engagement, and audience demographics. This data can be used to refine the messaging and refine an effective social media strategy.
Creating Engaging Content
Once the platforms have been selected, scheduling planned, and analytics checked, it is time to create engaging content. To create content that followers respond to, think in terms of what the target audience may find interesting or helpful. Relevant, meaningful content should make up the majority of posts, with the occasional promotion thrown in. For example, if a business is selling pet supplies, a post may focus on the benefits of a particular product, while an advertisement may encourage followers to buy the product.
Encourage User-Generated Content
One of the most effective ways to engage followers is to encourage user-generated content. This can be done by conducting contests and sweepstakes, asking followers to submit videos or photos, or even just asking for their opinions on a certain topic. Fan participation helps create a sense of power for the followers, making them feel valued and appreciated, which can lead to increased interaction with the brand and more sales.
Partner With Influencers
Influencers are people who have a strong online presence, a large number of followers, and a sway over the opinions of those followers. Many influencers are willing to partner with businesses to help promote their products. These partnerships can be a very effective way to boost brand visibility and connect to the right audience.
Social media can be an effective tool for growing and engaging an audience, especially when used correctly. Following the tips above can help any business maximize its social media presence and maximize its ROI. With a little ingenuity and effort, any business can become a social media success and reap the rewards of connecting with their online audience.
