Social media – can you remember a time when we didn’t wake up and check Twitter or have a look at Facebook on our lunch break?
In recent years it has undeniably been the hot topic for marketing that businesses can’t ignore. But now everyone’s set up those company Facebook pages and corporate Twitter accounts being the first in the industry on social media is no longer enough.
So we’ve put together 3 basic tips you can start today to improve engagement – by that we mean, at a very basic level, getting people to respond not simply follow your account. That may be clicking through, a like, comment, share, retweet, reply?the list goes on.
1. Interact
Social is the key word – you need to listen just as much as you talk. So keep an eye on what people are saying not only about you but industry topics and when appropriate reply, get involved and have your input.
If you have no one to reply to or little interaction pose questions, ask for people’s opinions or feedback and start those conversations. A consistent hashtag will also make these conversations trackable and spread the word. Just remember people want to think they’re talking to a person not a company so keep it informal not corporate.
2. Timing
Real-time marketing – it’s the latest buzz word with digital marketing. Social media is immediate how many times have you found out the latest news from trends of Twitter before the 6 o’clock news?
So it’s fine to schedule those tweets monthly but if something comes up that’s relevant or everyone’s talking about be reactive and have your say, put your twist on it – just look at the success of Oreo’s tweet during the super bowl. If your followers or fans are interacting with you about this they will be exposed to the rest of your content.
The timing of these posts is equally as important – when’s the optimum time to post? Have a look at those Facebook insights and see when people engage the most or do it the traditional way and think about your audience – do teenagers check social media before 8am on a weekend?
3. Value and variety
Good content will always be key. You can do 1 and 2 all you like but if you’re not providing your followers and fans with something worth reading, clicking on, or sharing there’s little point.
Sure, keep it informal but remind people how you can benefit them, spark their interest and give them a reason to read on.
But social media is fundamentally about community it’s not a sales pitch so vary your content. Don’t constantly tweet to get new customers – keep your existing ones informed – we all know retention is more economical than acquisition. This is where visuals can help, so post an Instagram of what’s happening at you’re business or how you’re supporting a local event or national day.
So there you have it – how to kick start your social media engagement and improve that all important reach and awareness. And remember, if you’re not sure how you’re getting on, every social media channel has been getting on the engagement bandwagon with specific analytics and insights.
Bigwave media offer a range of social media services from training, content, management and campaigns. To find out more get in touch or tweet us @bigwavemedia.