Social Networks And How To Use Them In 2014
We have been using social networks since Friendster was the latest fad in 2002. Things in the tech world have changed dramatically just in the last few years. Are you thinking that your business is struggling to keep up with all the different networks? The good thing is that a business can still be successful without feeling obligated to using all of the social networks. Think of social networks as tools that can help you build a loyal customer base. Here is how the social networks have changed and what you need to know to prepare for 2014.
Twitter has always been a rapid newsfeed with continuing focus on communication. It enables users to send and read “tweets,” which are text messages limited to 140 characters. If a customer needs help from your business, you can instantly be there to support them. Hashtags (a word or a phrase prefixed with the symbol #) are more popular than ever and when your business uses a hashtag that is trending you increase your chances of receiving engagement from people who are not following you by more than 90 percent. Today, people are constantly searching through hashtags for the latest information. Remember, add a hashtag when you ask questions. They are integral to the way we communicate online.
For example, #Marketing: What is the latest fad in the industry tweeps?
This popular network is a shopper’s dream! It is all about giving people ideas and inspiration try new things. It’s your chance to really load up with information and infographics that can educate in many areas of interest and help you develop some expertise. People go on the network to see visuals and learn from them, make sure you use the real-estate wisely that is provided. Users can browse other pinboards for images and “re-pin” images to their own pinboards or “like” photos. Large visuals and simple words are the best ways to go viral on this network. Pinterest acts as a personalized media platform, whereby users’ content and the content of others can be browsed on the main page so remember to keep your posting short, sweet, and to the point.
Think YOU and be yourself! What better way is there than a fast, beautiful and fun way to share your life with friends and family than Instagram? Your personal, heartfelt messages will ensure trust from your audiences, which is the image you want to portray. These are personal instant moments you are sharing whereas Facebook may have sharp and more fresh photos. For example, a businesses can utilize this platform to showcase the backend of their business (the staff or designers that are the energy and heart of the company). This is the best way to present yourself to any audience — by being transparent, authentic, vulnerable. Just be you!
At first, Facebook was just a place to “add posts” and “content” how Facebook has progressed. Facebook is about telling stories with visual aids gone viral! These visuals need to be sharp and fresh. Take a look at the images in your favorite magazine and other advertising collateral. For example, we recently created an image for an ice cream shop advocating their latest flavor and a short customer accolade below the photo. The engagement increased by 40 percent just within the first hour of posting it.
Note, videos work just as good as visuals, but make sure your videos are brief and concise. Don’t forget to add your call-to-action in the visual to get your audience hooked. Include the words “buy” or “sign-up” so your audience is aware and motivated to do what you need them to do.
Did I miss anything on my preparation list for the year 2014? Comment below with your thoughts!
