Venturing into Social Media: Key Considerations for Success
1. Personnel
2. Targeting the Right Audience
3. Your Website
Personnel: The Right People for the Job
In today’s digital landscape, the importance of social media cannot be overstated. Salaries and entire departments are now dedicated to maximizing exposure across various platforms. Small businesses, fear not—you can compete more effectively than ever before.
Begin by focusing on your personnel. Exceptional social media managers should be:
- Outgoing
- Socially adept
- Intelligent
- Passionate
- Forward-thinking
Remember, online communication differs from face-to-face interactions. Some individuals may not be chatty in person but can engage effectively online, conducting long conversations on platforms like Facebook or Twitter.
Targeting the Right Audience
After selecting the right person for the job, decide which major social networks to focus on. Common choices include:
Even if these platforms don’t align perfectly with your business, creating a page with your contact details can help you claim your brand.
Additionally, explore niche-specific social networks that can give you an edge over competitors.
Integrating Social Media with Your Website
Enhance engagement by adding social icons to your website. Surprisingly, many businesses fail to do this effectively. Don’t hide your icons; instead, integrate them throughout your content to encourage sharing.
Understand the demographics and preferences of each social network. For example:
- Pinterest: Visual content is key. Watermark images with your logo.
- Facebook: Shareable content like memes and deals perform well.
Patience and Realism
Be realistic and patient. Less than 1% of social media posts go viral, so don’t expect immediate engagement. Social media success requires time and consistent effort. Posts on platforms like Pinterest and Instagram might not gain traction for months, but sudden engagement can occur. Be prepared for both positive and negative feedback. Avoid heated arguments, as they can damage your online presence.
When to Call in a Professional
Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if managing social media becomes overwhelming. A Social Media Manager can set up your profiles, generate posts, and handle comments. With some trial and error, you’ll discover the strategies that work best for your business.
