Getting a start-up off the ground is an extremely time-consuming and exhausting task. The great news is that in 2016, there is an easy way to share your precious baby business with the world. You guessed it, social media! This powerful tool has taken the Internet by storm and is now one of the many marketing methods for businesses today. If you’re starting a business and aren’t sure how to use it, we’re here to save the day. Here are our top tips for marketing your start-up on social media.
Just Do It
Social media can be intimidating for someone who isn’t used to sharing online. Rather than becoming overwhelmed and putting off signing up your business just do it. The more you wait, the more your business is missing out. If you’re totally clueless, reach out to a friend or family member with experience, try to teach yourself or even enrol in a short course to give you the basic skills you need to market your business online. It doesn’t have to be that complicated – all you need is an Internet connection, your business details and a basic idea of what to post.
Be Consistent
The key to a successful social media presence is consistency. Your content should be consistent in two ways. Firstly, it should be “consistent” or “in line” with your target market. There’s no point posting content that is completely irrelevant and misses the mark. It should be targeted at the demographic that buys your product or service in order to attract them. Secondly, your posts should be regular but well spaced. You can use a website like Buffer to schedule your posts throughout the day.
Create Great Content
If you really want your business to stand out online, your content needs to be of high relevance, quality and creativity. It may be worthwhile to invest in equipment or programs that will help you – such as a camera and editing software. Depending on the size of your business, you may even want to hire someone who is specifically responsible for these aspects of content production.
Listen to Feedback
Social media gives you the opportunity to hear direct feedback from your customers. Your priority is to LISTEN and LEARN. Read every comment and every message. If you notice a trend – for example, people messaging you on Facebook for assistance because e-mails are not being replied to. That is a sign that you are failing in an aspect of your customer service. If a photo of a certain product is being reposted all over Instagram, garnering a lot of interest, it’s a sign you should restock.
Interact with Customers
Don’t assume that all online interaction with customers is going to be bad! The amazing thing about social media is that it allows you to interact with customers. It isn’t just a one-way street, with you broadcasting information and them receiving it. You can converse! The more you interact with customers, the more you will grow relationships and ensure they keep shopping with you.
Utilising social media for marketing will be one of the most rewarding decisions you make for your business. If there’s one thing you should remember – it’s to ensure that your business promotes its unique point of difference through social media. By consistently posting great content, listening to feedback and interacting with customers – you are giving yourself the opportunity to remind them WHY they should buy your products or service. So let go of any hesitation, give social media your best shot and enjoy the results!