Ever wonder how to use social media as part of your advertising strategy?  There is an art to posting, tweeting, and pinning that will attract new customers organically while ensuring loyalty to long-time customers. Here are 3 tips to help you maximize your social media presence.

#1  First and foremost, social media is not a blank billboard for your business to advertise on!  If you follow a business of any kind on social media, you can attest to the irritation you feel when ads start filling the news feed. Use this platform as a way to send out information about your business or promote special deals and events.  Loyal customers will be drawn to well-timed, thoughtful posts and will share it with friends.  New customers will be drawn to the special offers and ideally become regular followers. It is also a great platform for customer service. Follow up with customers after a recent purchase, post changes in hours/services, and ask for feedback!

#2  Secondly, use social media tools to let your expertise shine.  Let people see what makes your business special!  Use the visual side of social media to display new products, videos, and testimonials. If you own a hair salon, post hair style demonstration videos on YouTube and Facebook.  If you own a bakery and are looking for more wedding business, pin pictures of your recent creations along with special promotions for wedding cakes and desserts.  Social media really is simple if you analyze a goal and the best way to reach it.

#3  Lastly, social media is a two-way street.  Don’t let the opportunity to interact with customers pass you by!  The beautiful thing about these sites is the ability for users to leave comments and feedback.  It’s a wonderful chance for you to improve your business.  They will let you know what they like and don’t like (so be prepared for criticism).  They will tell you what deals you should repeat and which products you should stock up on.  Make sure you are responding to posts and comments so customers feel they’ve been heard.  Your business will appear more personal, and that’s how you build relationships with your customers!

Using social media effectively will do wonders for your small business.  It’s a cost effective way to promote and reach new customers.  Loyal customers will appreciate updates from your company and the chance to interact with you too.  Remember, don’t try to do everything.  Be an expert in your field.  Keep it small, and use the tools to your advantage!