The internet has changed the way that businesses operate on virtually every level, including advertising and general customer communications. In order to create a successful brand for your company, you need to develop a social media strategy as part of your online marketing efforts.
Have key members of your team help develop a mission statement for your social media accounts. You will need to have a consistent voice throughout if you are going to receive public acceptance.
Find out what your competitors are up to and do it better. Use a secondary account to follow the competition on social media. See what works and what makes folks cringe.
Create your own unique strategies based on what you have learned. Also, never interact with the competitors account. Because it could impact the business, doing so would have ethical implications that are best to avoid.
In addition to paying attention to what folks are saying to them, see what your current customers have to say. Review the feedback from your website, store and social media accounts.
If your business is new, or you just don’t have much feedback to review, offer your customers something in return for their opinions. Discounts, shout-outs, freebies and more can entice customers into leaving a review. Keep in mind that some may not be pleased with your company but still expect you to fulfill the offer. Do so.
Develop SMART goals for your social media strategy. This is a popular method for businesses to ensure progress. The letters represent: smart, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound.
In regards to your social media accounts, one of your goals might be to have a particular account reach 1000 followers with at least 5 interactions daily by the next established meeting.
To ensure that your company stays on track, you will need to use the appropriate tools to measure your success. Depending on which social media sites you use, various programs are available to monitor how well various aspects of your campaigns are working. This information is invaluable when determining how to move forward.
You need to have a clear plan for your social media postings. Too often, small businesses become sidetracked and employees post randomly, if at all.
Use organizational software to determine the scheduling for business posts throughout the week and month. Plan in advance as your new campaigns are developed. The main sheet should include a heading for each of your social media accounts.
Record the post schedule including the times, dates and topics of each message. A balanced approach that reaches your target audience most effectively is easier when you are organized. An editorial calendar is indispensable!
Successful entrepreneurs know that a health social media presence will help any business to thrive. Start incorporating appropriate social media accounts into your online presence and monitor the results. More people will notice your business and the reputation of your brand grow as you learn how to implement these with your other marketing efforts!
