Social Media Is Dead
That’s a pretty provocative title.
But the fact remains that the social media we first used to connect to far away friends and family members isn’t the same beast that we have today. And while anyone can create an Instagram account and start posting, it is no longer an effective strategy for businesses to grow and develop an audience.
Not everyone needs to like you
I’ve had many clients come to me and say they want to go viral on social media and have a million followers.
“Do you want to be an influencer and content creator?”, I ask them.
“No, I just want to make sales and see my business grow”, is generally the answer I receive.
Social media algorithms are designed to show us the biggies: the most exciting photos that receive the most interaction. But this occurs on a national, if not worldwide, scale. Most businesses are local or regional, and need ways to connect with their audience in a more local way. So you really don’t need 1 million followers, because it’s very unlikely that those million are going to purchase anything from you. It is much better to have 1,500 engaged, local followers who represent your actual audience and will become returning customers.
The New Era Social Media
This new era that has emerged in social media is strategic and focused. It asks us not to think about who screams the loudest, but who whispers to the right people. And it is no longer a one trick pony. Which means that if your instagram page is all you’re relying on to bring in business, you’re definitely doing something wrong. So how should you navigate this new era? Keep reading…
Tips for a Successful Social Media Strategy
Do your research - your social media accounts are an extension of your brand. Just like you would do competitor analysis during brand development, it is important to do this same analysis when creating your social media strategy.
Start from strategy - it’s better to not post at all than to post randomly. Make sure you set a posting schedule that is realistic and that you are strategizing content that your audience wants to see.
Make it personal - Personal relationships are so important and word of mouth recommendations are so much more valuable than any viral post can ever be.
Don’t sleep on your email strategy - email marketing is still one of the strongest ways to market your business. Include email marketing as part of your overall strategy and as a complement to your content on social media.
Focus on what you do best - While anyone can post on social media, it doesn’t mean that they should, especially when it comes to your business. Working with marketing experts is a game changer because it allows you to spend your time and focus on what you do best.
Want to discuss your social media strategy? Click HERE to schedule a free 15 minute consultation with CreativeCat’s social media expert.
