Social media marketing is a primary asset for engaging audiences in today’s highly digitized world. Not only does social media offer a diverse range of channels to post and publish to, it also allows you to engage specifically with the audiences you want your business to attract. So, how do you know which platforms to choose? These 5 tips for social media marketing can answer that:

This may be tricky for many business owners just starting out in social media. It is important to really consider the demographics of your business’s target audience and then consider social media platforms with similar ranges. 

While categorical demographics are important, so is the “who” of the audience you are trying to reach. 

• B2C (Businesses-to-Consumer) Businesses may thrive on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram as users are predominantly utilizing the apps leisurely, with the intention to consume. 
  • Pro-tip: Facebook and Instagram both have the option to switch your account to a “professional” or “business” profile. This lets you track your engagement more easily and offers ways to sell products and promote content. 
• B2B (Business-to-Business) Businesses (Cross Life Ventures is B2C and B2B!) should consider using LinkedIn and possibly Facebook as its main platforms. LinkedIn is a site specifically to reach and connect with other business, employers, and potential employees. Additionally, Facebook has the option to join niche groups and connect with other businesses to build credibility and gain new leads (new audiences).

Social media can be complicated when just starting out. It may take time for your content to reflect your brand through your social media accounts, or to learn the different settings and ways you can repurpose your content. Posting consistently every week builds reliability. Plan out your posts with a simple calendar or spreadsheet and stick to them!

Ensure that only a small amount of content is direct promotion, especially if you are using ads. Content that really converts doesn’t start with an ad. It starts with content that audiences value (content that educates, entertains, or inspires).

It feels good when your audience is engaging with your content. Why not give them that feeling in return? Show your audience you care about them by replying to comments and messages, acknowledging users who shared your content, and by liking and commenting on other businesses profiles. This gains consumer trust and builds brand authenticity.

As a small business owner, leveraging user-generated content (audience content) by offering promotions and challenges that encourage customers to tag you, so you can repost their content in return. Use specific and local hashtags, or create one for users to share.