Recently for class we were asked to find a local business and do some research on their social media page. I chose a local business in the next town where I personally know the owner. Social media has been brought up to them many times, but they don't seem to think they need it. I actually don't think they advertise at all, except for their very poorly put together Facebook page. Looking at it is actually very funny considering they actually skipped posting in 2011 all together. What is sad is that the potential that Facebook offers to small businesses is something that is overlooked far too often.
So I am going to take it upon myself to give some of my opinion on what you should do to improve your small business's social media presence. (Keep in mind these are my opinions, in no way should these be taken personal, just my thoughts on the matter.)
1. Capitalize the name of your business. Yes, I know this seems obvious, but you may be surprised. I understand some people may not capitalize the name on their logo but your business is still a proper noun. This is not high school, have some respect for yourself and capitalize your name.
2. Have a profile picture AND a cover photo. Yes, Facebook offers cover photos now. Mine is a picture of my golden retrievers after a bath. It's adorable. But you can have one too! You just click on that huge blank space above your name and profile picture. Put pictures of your business, put pictures of your products, put a picture of your staff, put a picture of your services, put a picture of your logo, just put a picture. This is another way of grabbing your audience's attention fast when they first click on your screen.
3. Have a good profile picture. If this is for your personal page then who cares, post that picture of you throwing back a bottle wine, but for your small business lets be professional. If you are putting your logo, make sure it is good quality. Not a small thumbnail that no one can see unless they zoom in to 400%. Also don't use a pixelated photo, ask who ever made this logo for you for the original file because it just looks sloppy. I understand its only Facebook, but this is FREE advertising. Take advantage of it. If you don't believe me, look at another business's profile in the same market as you and see what they have done for their profile picture. Also, If you are using a picture of yourself, like a lawyer for example, try to get a professional photo, I have so much respect for the people that get a professional photo taken for their LinkedIn, use it for Facebook too.
4. Update daily if you can. Just more than once a week. Give your audience something to look forward to, and something to draw them into your business. Make them want to use your business.
5. Pictures, pictures, pictures! Post pictures whenever you can! A lot of social media is very visual right now, look at Pinterest and Instagram. If someone see's an appealing photo they are more likely to click on it. Also photos drag people in to like and comment on these photos. Also, if you have access to a photographer, or a professional camera, or photo editing software, use these resources. The better your picture looks, the better you look.
6. Respond to comments or posts made by your audience. Engage with your audience. They took the time to comment or post on your page, thank them or strike up a conversation with them. Make them feel special and you are more likely to continue to get their business, and they will probably tell their friends.
7.Link your other social media outlets together. I don't mean post on one place and have it spread everywhere, while that does actually make life easier. But on your Facebook page, add your Twitter page or Pinterest Page or Instagram or whatever you have. Let your audience explore every part of you. Also let them get the opportunity to follow you on these pages.
8. Coupons and incentives. If your business provides services, put coupons and incentives on your page. Make incentives for people to "like" your page or to follow you. Such as, "Like my page and get a coupon for 25% your next order." These work all the time because everyone likes a deal. Also, if you have coupons or specials circulating, make them accessible through your page. If anything, Facebook and Twitter has only made my shopping problem worse by doing this. So trust me, it works. Another thing that works is contests! People love contests! See who can make the best sandwich or who can use your product for the most things! Get creative!
9. Make sure your photos are not copyrighted. When it gets down to it, use your own photos. Last thing you need is someone knocking down your door because you stole their images.
10. Have fun with it! A social media presences is going to take time to build, but I promise you, it will be worth it. Make it as unique as your business. This is your time to have fun with something.
