Social media has grown hugely over the last few years, leading to a huge number of different platforms, better connectivity and a whole host of opportunities for businesses to reach their target audience. One of the biggest benefits it offers is new online marketing opportunities, because companies can connect directly with their market and attempt to influence them.
Getting started with social media marketing can be a challenge, and there are a few things you’ll need to consider before you rush in. Here are ten hidden truths to keep in mind.
1) It isn’t free
The majority of social media platforms are free to use, but you’ll need to invest time and care to establish your presence and keep them active. The best way to be successful with the medium is to practise. Alternatively, you could use our social media marketing service to save time and ensure your pages remain as active as possible.
2) It doesn’t matter how popular you are
The number of followers doesn’t count for much unless they help you to reach your goals. It is always better to have a smaller following who actually contribute than thousands of people who don’t. You should put the effort into building a solid network by engaging with people rather than simply targeting numbers.
3) You don’t need to use all platforms
With the sheer number of different social media platforms available, from Twitter to Facebook to Pinterest to Instagram, it is easy to spread yourself too thin. Each site has its own unique features, and it’s a good idea to focus on the ones that will help you to reach your target market most effectively. Remember you need to keep the accounts you set up active for the best response. Keeping a narrower focus is the way to do this.
4) Learn about your audience
The beauty of social media is it can help you to discover vital information about the people you are trying to sell goods and services to. You will have the opportunity to ask questions, gather details and get a much deeper understanding of their needs.
5) It can make you memorable
Most people check social media on a regular basis to see what is happening in the world, what their friends are up to and to find information about businesses and topics they are interested in. Building a presence gets you involved in this and gives you the chance to make a lasting impression, especially if you make posts which are relevant to your target market.
6) It is easy
Developers need to make apps and platforms easy to use so they can attract more users than competitors. This means that most of the ones you will be looking to use for business will be simple to use and offer a good user experience. It’s unlikely you’ll need a huge amount of technical knowledge to be able to use social media effectively.
7) Choose the right person to represent you
You should always keep in mind that your social media presence will affect how people view your business. You need to make sure you have the right person in charge, especially if they’re going to have access to your customers and be communicating with them. Our social media team understand how to strike the right tone for your business and make posts and content that will work for you.
8) Fit time in
As previously mentioned, it takes time to build a social media presence, but this shouldn’t deter you. With better mobile technology and connectivity you can post something at almost any time, even while you’re out of the office.
9) Create your own content
Your knowledge of an industry is valuable and should be shared amongst your network. You can make content about any relevant subject you want, whether it is your view on the latest legislation or an idea you want to share. Customers appreciate businesses that pass on knowledge of their industry and help them to learn more.
10) Make it personal
People generally treat their business accounts differently to their own personal ones. This is right in some cases, but you still need to let the character of your company come through. Including images of your office, staff parties and other personal subjects makes you feel more real and customers will respond to this. Remember to check that everything you post is appropriate.
If you’re looking to get started with social marketing we would be happy to help. We have a team of experts on staff and can provide all of the support you need. Alongside this we also specialise in web design so we can help you to get your online presence right. As a locally based business in Middlesbrough we understand the importance of personalisation and using social media to access your target market.