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Tuesday, May 14, 2013

15 Best Practices for Businesses Using Social Media (Part II of III)

06. Put in Work on the Front End
Though social media requires rapid communication in most instances, not all content should be impulsive. In fact, it’s probably a good idea to plan content one month in advance. 

This content shouldn’t solely be links to other websites or fictional holiday wishes (Happy Do Nothing Day, everyone!) either. Take photos, shoot videos, hold a contest, poll your followers, just do something. This may require more work than your personal Facebook page, but it’s a must to keep your followers engaged.

07. Build a Community
Easier said than done.

The first step, though, is to get people talking. People should feel included, so engage with them. Social media gives businesses the opportunity to break down the wall between themselves and their consumers. If they have a question, answer it. If they have a concern, respond to it. And do it quickly, people expect a response within 24 hours.

08. Be Human
People respond better to other humans than they do to companies. If your page reads like an ad, people will turn off. Instead of mindlessly clicking your link back to your website, they’ll see what their friends are saying. 

Cut the professional jargon and be human. This will make building a community much simpler.

09. Be Fascinating
It’s not good enough to be interesting anymore. You have to be fascinating.

You see, that girl from high school that recently came back from a trip to Europe is interesting. If you’re equally as interesting, people aren’t going to visit your page.  

In the social media space, you’re no longer competing with other companies. You’re also competing with your followers’ friends. They’re much more interesting than you, so you have to be fascinating.

10. Stay Current
The social media space is synonymous with being up-to-date. Things spread, ignite and die very quickly. So you must be informed. Current events, industry news and (real) holidays are excellent things to talk about, just make sure they’re relevant.

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