Coming up with content to share on your social media channels can be a bit overwhelming. Most small business owners barely have anytime to themselves, left alone trying to come up with engaging, creative material to draw in customers and promote their business. Here are a few steps to help get you started:
- Pick dates on the calendar. Decide which days you will post – one day a week or multiple?
- Choose a theme. Start with the major holidays or events. There are calendars available that have events for every day of the week/month – National Hot Dog Day, Easter, July 4th, Thanksgiving. Throwback Thursdays – share vintage photos related to your community or product offering. Wacky Wednesdays – add in some humor or a funny photo. Breast Cancer Awareness Month or special events like the Grammy Awards, Super Bowl, etc.
- Think about your ideal target customer. What type of info would get their attention? New Moms – time management, how to get crayons off your walls, products for children, etc.
Don’t always talk about yourself. Share information about the community or area where your business is located.
- Find ways to use short videos. How-to videos on using a product you sell can build your credibility as an expert in your field. How-to videos are the most searched type of video on YouTube.
- Content should relate back to your company. You are what you say so make sure your posts relate back to what you want your company to be known for (your brand), your vision and your goals. Be PROFESSIONAL!
- Customer testimonials are a great way to share the success your business is achieving. Be sure to always ask for permission before posting but most customers are happy to share. So, when you create a fabulous new hair style for a customer or deliver a new piece of furniture to a happy customer – Share the news! And use a picture of the customer to tell your story!
- Keep a running list of questions that a customer asks. Choose one day of the week when you will answer one question and provide a solution for your customers. Solving problems that your customers have is another way to increase your engagement and show your business as a problem-solver.
- Consider other businesses that you can promote or partner with. Is there a community celebration that you would have products or a services to sell that can assist local residents. Graduation rentals or catering, photography or invitations. Consider how your business can make life easier for busy customers.
- Keep a file of articles you come across that you can share later. Remember to give credit to your sources.
- People are very intrigued with lists. Consider short lists that could relate to your business: Top 5 foods to help you lose weight, the newest trends in home décor, this year’s hottest fashion colors
- Ask your customers a question and write about the answers. What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream? Where is your dream vacation location? What do you love most about Your Town, USA?
- Try to keep your content positive and free of political comments. You don’t want to offend any of your current or potential customers.
- Create a good headline. Include photos or video.
- If all else fails, include a cute cat video. (They are the most watched videos on YouTube!)
