With so many different social media sites to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which ones are really essential to your business.
Investing your energy into these five social media sites can have a big payoff for your business.
1. Facebook
One of the best things about Facebook is the ease at which businesses can create a page.
Within a matter of a few minutes you can set up a Facebook page that allows you to tell customers about your business. A simple page that announces the services you offer, hours of operation and a link to your website can be a great way to get your business discovered.
One of the drawbacks of Facebook is the recent change in post visibility for small businesses. When you create a post for your page, very few fans actually see your post.
Facebook instead encourages you pay to promote each post so it can be seen by more of your fans in their newsfeed. Despite this change, setting up a Facebook page is still an essential way to reach customers and build a brand.
2. Twitter
A huge advantage to Twitter is that it literally while only require a few minutes of your time.
Tweets can only be a maximum of 140 characters, so sending out a quick message should only take seconds.
Twitter can allow you to connect with other businesses as well as your fans instantly. Tweet about relevant news and information in addition to sending out tweets that link back to your website.
3. Pinterest
Pinterest is different from other social media sites as it depends on pictures instead of words. Pin photos of your products, employees, and your brick and mortar store to engage users.
You can also create graphics that will grab user’s attention. For example, pie charts or graphs about your company or your product can be a quick way to show customers what you’re all about.
Interact with followers on Pinterest by asking customers to submit their own photos of your products. It can be a great way to really promote your products through word of mouth advertising.
4. YouTube
Although many business owners feel a little camera shy, YouTube can be a great social media platform. Creating videos that teach your followers how to do something can be very valuable.
Create your own YouTube channel and you’re likely to gain a following. Keep videos short, educational and relevant. Offer teasers that will encourage them to visit your website.
5. Google Plus
Google Plus is essential to any small business.
One of the major benefits is that it can improve your search rankings within Google.
A Google Plus account allows you to connect with other people and other businesses. You can promote your content and link back to your website.
Google Plus’ “communities” feature allows businesses to reach out and solicit feedback from customers. Businesses can post photos and videos about products and services.
Spend some time learning about the various social media tools for your business and see how they can help your company become more social.