As a marketing consultant, I understand how social media can seem overwhelming to someone just getting started. The most common thing I here from clients is, "Where do I start?"
As a Milford resident, I have helped several local businesses get their social media campaigns off the ground, and watched their sales increase. Even if you don't know how to get started, it's important to realize that you can benefit from an online presence.
It's easy to feel overwhelmed when you try to jump into a social media campaign - that's why I've decided to put together a game plan to get you on the right track. There's no secret formula to social media success, but there are some pointers you can follow to make it more attainable.
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Planning For Success
Most business owners jump right into social media without formulating any kind of plan. Would you try out any of your other marketing activities without planning things out beforehand?
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Most likely not. Social media marketing is like any other form of marketing; you need to (or at least should) plan out a strategy before getting started.
- Do your research: Even though it might seem boring, preliminary research is crucial. You wouldn't run a TV commercial without researching what channels your target market watches, and you shouldn't attempt social media marketing without researching which social media sites your target market uses.
- Pick your platforms: Using the knowledge you've gained through your research, look at the sites which your target market uses. Consider which sites are a good fit for your business. We've touched upon choosing which sites are right for your business here, here, and here.
- Plan a launch strategy: Once you know which platforms you want to use, it's almost time to launch. Before you actually launch, figure out how you'll spread the news. Do you have an email list that you can mail? Do you want to offer a special for people that like you or follow you? Getting initial traction isn't easy, but with enough exposure, incentive, and time, you can have a smooth take off.
- Develop a posting strategy: It's crucial to post worthwhile content on a regular basis for social media success. Think about what you can post that will be of interest to your followers, how often you will post, and how you want to portray the overall "personality" of your brand online.
In part 2, I'll go into more detail as to how to actually get posting, and improve your image online. Don't let a few barriers stand in the way of growing your business online.
A few hours spent now can yield great results down the road! If you need any help getting started or have questions, contact us or leave a comment!
To learn more and get a copy of our Free Small Business Marketing eBook, visit us at www.cyclonestrategies.com Also, make sure you check out our daily marketing blog there!
Kyle Nunes is Co-Owner of Cyclone Strategies, a marketing agency which helps small and medium sized businesses create and implement online marketing strategies.
