Not long ago we came across this article that succinctly explains practices that we should all keep in mind to make the most of our social media marketing.
(adapted from a January 2015 article on socialmediaexaminer.com)
Tip 1 - Build Meaningful Relationships
Successful marketers know that relationships are the fuel behind business success. To keep the pipeline full, you must build meaningful relationships with both consumers and other business owners.
Action item: Your goal is to compile a list of relationships that will allow you to consistently connect with people vital to your success.
Tip 2 - Merge Passion with Social Purpose
To get out of the heads and into the hearts of your target audience, you must incorporate a purpose beyond profit. When you merge the two, customers become your biggest advocates.
Action item: Begin by identifying how you're already giving back to your customers and local community. Whether it's through events, volunteer opportunities or fundraisers, brainstorm how and where you'll spend your time giving. Then, share your story and inspire others to do the same.
Tip 3 - Understand What Customers Crave
To be a successful marketer, you have to pay close attention to the ever-changing needs of your consumer.
Action item: Use the analytic tools built in to your social media vehicles to regularly pull and review data about how your customers are engaged. Use this information to analyze what's working and what's not, then make changes and enhancements to your strategy to deliver the content your customers want.
Tip 4 - Connect and Collaborate
Work tirelessly to identify what matters most to your market and be eager to share your experiences, ideas and expertise with other like-minded business professionals.
Action item: Use a tool like Sprout Social to actively engage in conversations with people who share your same purpose.
Tip 5 - Keep Money-Making Activities in Sight
Successful marketers know that being busy doesn't equal success. Success comes from productively working on money-making activities daily.
Action item: What will make the greatest impact on the health of your business?
Call five prospects to set up a meeting.
Attend a local networking event.
Request to speak at an upcoming event.
Record a video tip highlighting your expertise.
Create a new product that solves one problem of your target market.
Tip 6 - Track, Measure and Adjust Your Efforts
You have to test what works and what doesn't and understand what it takes to gain your audience's attention, response and receptivity.
Action item: Carefully review your performance over time, helping you craft content and posts specifically designed with your target market in mind.