LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat – sometimes the social media channels available to businesses can seem overwhelming. How does a business owner decide which channels are right for marketing their business? What kinds of messaging works best on which channels? What results can you expect?
Social media marketing can seem daunting, but with research, planning, and creating great content, you can successfully reach potential customers to make them aware of your company – and encourage them to do business with you! Review these tips to help you determine an effective social strategy for your organization.
Know who you want to reach.
Find out details about who your current and potential customers are and what they like. Consider their common traits and interests. Are they business owners? What interests or hobbies do they have? Is there a certain age group or location that stands out? What professional or online groups do they participate in – and can you join?
Learn what communications channels your current customers use.
Talk with some of your best customers to learn which social platforms they use. Ask them why those channels appeal to them and how active they are. Use their input to guide you in developing options for reaching potential customers who may be similar to your current ones.
What do you want your target audiences to do?
Get specific about what you want the groups you have identified as potential customers to do. Social messaging falls into four buckets. Messages educate, inspire, entertain, or drive action — and your business goals determine the right messaging mix. To educate potential customers about your company, create captivating messages and graphics that explain what makes you different from others. Offer a deal or incentive, create a loyalty program or post information that shares how you can help people with their needs. Of course, customer testimonials are powerful ways to share your organization’s story.
Conducting upfront research will help you target your social messaging to the right audiences. At Latitude 34 PR, we work with companies of all sizes to research and develop effective social marketing strategy and messaging. Give us a call to learn how we can help your company determine the social platforms and stories that can drive your business forward.
Put our expertise to work for you.