Social media accounts for businesses are now the norm rather than the exception, so keeping up-to-date with your posts is something that must be done on a regular basis. We understand that this is time-consuming and is yet another item to add to your to-do list, but below are some tips for streamlining the process and keeping your content interesting and fresh.
- Choose your accounts wisely: You don’t have to have ALL the social media accounts for your business (although you should own your name to fend off squatters.) Pick the ones that make the most sense. Facebook, Twitter and Google+ are fairly standard (for different reasons) and should be on your list, but if your business is not image heavy, then Instagram and Pinterest may not be necessary. However, if you are a retailer, these may be your most important accounts. Consider what your business’ mission and goals are, then choose your social media accounts accordingly.
- Know your audience: Who are they and what do they need? What do they like and how can you help them? These are questions you should ask yourself before you start posting on your social media accounts. Even after you’ve begun posting and feel like you have identified your target audience, use social media analytics to gain more insight into your audience’s habits and fine-tune what you are already doing to capture them.
Use time saving applications:
- Create a keyword list (in much the same way you would for SEO), and use your chosen keywords in Google Alerts to capture content throughout the week so you don’t have to search every day for fresh articles to post.
- Use Hootsuite, Sprout Social, Edgar or other handy tools – many of which have simplified free versions – to schedule posts so that you can get an entire week or two of social media finished in one sitting. Keep in mind that the style and format for each is different, so it’s best to use the tools to post to each platform individually.
- Engage with your audience as often as possible: Respond to their comments and messages, like or retweet their news and photos, and let them know that you’re listening. This lets them know there is actually a person on the other end of the account, not just an automated robot.
- Beware of politically charged or religious content: On a business social media account (and in some cases even your personal profile), starting politically charged conversations can frighten people away. Some people are eager to debate or give their opinion, but others just don’t want to be inundated with other people’s opinions. Stay neutral and keep the political material for personal encounters.
Social media doesn’t have to be difficult – in fact, it can be a fun way to get to know your customers better and improve your business. Many people hire marketing agencies to handle social media, if this is the route you choose, make sure the agency is willing to learn your business and tailor your posts to your personality – nothing is worse than a Facebook or Twitter that seems sterile and unrelated to the business. See more social media tips, check out some of our other articles about hashtags, Instagram posting, and writing client-centric blogs.
