When you have a business in any niche or industry, one of the best things you can do is build a strong social media following. Social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter are ideal for pitching products and services. They also let you build a strong community around your brand. If you want to take advantage of this, start applying these 3 social media marketing tips for small business owners.
Leverage the Power of Live Video
Video marketing is one of the most effective ways to reach a wider audience. It’s now easier than ever to integrate video into your social media marketing strategy. Aside from obvious methods such as posting videos to your Facebook page and timeline, there are some newer strategies worth employing.
Facebook now has live video streaming, which is a powerful way to engage your followers. Facebook Live lets you broadcast events, demonstrate your latest product or provide video tours of your facilities. This feature also lets you engage with your viewers, welcoming them by name and answering their questions. You might promote your live videos on Facebook to get more viewers.
Facebook is the largest social media site for live video, but it’s not the only one. Periscope, owned by Twitter, is another platform that lets you do this. If you’re active on Twitter, you can send your followers to your live broadcasts. Increase engagement by promoting tweets that announce these events.
Post Images and Videos on Pinterest
Pinterest is a fast-growing social media platform that’s great for engaging clients and customers.Pinterest has 150 million active monthly users, providing you with a large pool of potential followers. Pinning compelling images allows you to convey the benefits of your services in a powerful way.
Use Pinterest to create highly targeted boards. If you offer more than one type of service, segment your marketing by starting different boards. Another option is to use promoted pins. This includes video pins, a Pinterest features many people still haven’t discovered. Your followers will be able to see the benefits you offer through photos and videos.
While traditional videos are still important for marketing, live video is especially engaging. People like the feeling of participating in live events. It’s important to keep up with the latest trends in this fast-growing field. New platforms are always emerging while other disappear. Meerkat and Vine, for example, were both discontinued this year. Be flexible in your approach so you’re not overly invested in any specific platform. Facebook, however, is a good bet for dominance in the live video arena.
Build a Community
If you want to get the most out of social media, focus on building communities. This means not simply promoting yourself but engaging with your followers and encouraging them to engage with each other. One way to do this is through groups. Facebook groups are great for reaching out to like-minded people. Integrate this with your other activities such as your page, timeline posts and ads. For example, promoting a post about your group will attract more members. If you offer B2B services, LinkedIn groups are another option.
You aren’t limited to Facebook and LinkedIn for building communities, though. Other options include discussion forums using platforms such as phpBB or Zetaboards. While there are hundreds of ways to form groups online, it’s best to focus on one or two platforms. Otherwise you risk diluting your efforts and spreading yourself too thin.
The important thing with groups and communities is to constantly offer value. When you share your expertise, you’re indirectly promoting yourself. People will be able to find your services through your profile or website so there’s no need to constantly pitch. On the other hand, there’s nothing wrong with mentioning specials or timely offers. In general, though, it’s best to focus on community building as a way to build your brand.
To learn more social media marketing tips for your business, give us a call or send us a note today at Small Dog Creative 661-702-1310!
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