A Beginner’s Guide To Social Media For Small Businesses 2016
Why do I need social media marketing?
Well look how the recent presidential election was won.
FDR won because of radio, JFK won because of television, Trump won because of social media. That’s how powerful a marketing tool it is in the 21st century.
Being in business without engaging with social media leaves you one step behind your competitors. Even if you are a sole trader or small business you need to have a social presence. “But we don’t get any business through Facebook or Twitter” we hear you cry. This is NOT the only reason for using social media. Social signals also play a part on SEO and how authorative your brand is.
Which Platform?
Facebook’s casual, friendly environment begins with creating a Facebook Business Fan Page. Social media marketing for business pages revolves around furthering your conversation with audiences by posting industry-related articles, images, videos, etc. However, don’t make it all industry related as this can be boring. Try, if you can, to add a personal touch.
Google+
Google+ promotes the same fun, casual atmosphere. On Google+ you can upload and share photos, videos, links, and view all your +1s. Also take advantage of Google+ circles.
Pinterest image-centered platform is ideal for retail, but anyone can benefit from using Pinterest for social media purposes.
Twitter is the social media marketing tool that lets you broadcast your updates across the web. Follow tweeters in your industry or related fields, and you should gain a steady stream of followers in return.
LinkedIn is one of the more professional social media marketing sites. LinkedIn Groups is a great venue for entering into a professional dialog with people in similar industries and provides a place to share content with like-minded individuals.
YouTube
YouTube is the number one place for creating video content, with can be an incredibly powerful social media marketing tool. Many businesses try to create video content with the aim of having their video “go viral,” but in reality those chances are pretty slim. Instead, focus on creating useful, instructive “how-to” videos.
Social media is particularly important for small businesses with little or no marketing budget.
It is free and, if used properly and effectively, can reap great rewards.
Article first published on http://www.albaseoservices.co.uk/blog/a-beginners-guide-to-social-media-for-small-businesses-2016
Caroline Phillips, Alba SEO Services
