Social Media 101

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You already know that social media is a big opportunity for businesses (there are 3.5 billion people around the world using it, and you can dive in for free!).

But what you might be less sure of is how to make social media work for your unique business. We can help.  Before you hit that share button or fire off that tweet, take a few moments to ground yourself in these social media best practices.

1. Think: Is This Worth The Time It’ll Take to Read it?

Social platforms pressure brands to churn out tons of content all the time. Our advice: Think quality over quantity.

Followers expect content that’s relevant and interesting to them, and they’ll unfollow if they don’t get it. So before you post, take a step back to ensure that you’re posting feed-worthy news. Will it help followers, or positively contribute to a conversation?

If not, you might want to skip it.

Text Box: Nike creates a meaningful connection with consumers by sharing inspiring stories
Nike creates a meaningful connection with consumers by sharing inspiring stories

2. Mix Things Up

Variety is the spice of life, and of social feeds. So make sure you’re making a range of posts, whether that means using different content types (e.g., video instead of text or still images),  or different points of view (e.g., reposting user-generated content).

An interesting content mix keeps followers engaged and attracts a wider audience.

Text Box: Native Shoes reposts a photo of their product in action taken from an IG user who had uploaded the image and tagged the brand on their own profile

Native Shoes reposts a photo of their product in action taken from an IG user who had uploaded the image and tagged the brand on their own profile

3. Make It A Conversation

Interactive polls, question stickers, gifs, and simple graphics are easy ways to liven up not-so-lively content and drive engagement.

NASA prompts followers to submit questions for a Q&A through IG’s question sticker feature

4. Talk Back

Encourage follower feedback or comments throughout your social channels.

Be there to respond to comments and questions, and incorporate calls to action (CTA) that inspire people to chime in and increase interaction with your brand.

DiGiorno actively engages with users on Twitter, and not just about things that include their pizza.

5. Be Consistent

When it comes to your brand’s social voice, profile aesthetics and posting frequency, consistency is key. An attractive, active presence allows your brand to become recognizable and increases attention from your intended audience

StubHub frequently updates their Pinterest boards to include every type of event they sell tickets to

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