Our world is now overrun with the use of technology, and business owners who know how to use it are making a name for themselves. Although social media started as a way for people to make personal profiles and connect with others, it has now evolved into something much bigger. Big and small companies can now use social media to their advantage. It’s a great way to interact with customers, keep the public up to date, and keep your business relevant.

The thing about marketing and advertising on social media is you have to know how to do it right in order to be successful. Here are 5 helpful tips small business owners can use to create a successful presence on social media:

  1. Know your audience:  Knowing your audience is very important in all aspects of business. If you know what they like/dislike, what they spend their money on and what social media platforms they frequent, then you will know how and where to reach them. Next, determine what message will capture their attention, promote that message on the appropriate channels and stay top-of-mind with your audience.
  2. Decide your objective: Decide on your top marketing objectives and use that to assess how social media will help you achieve them. Some small business owners can get stressed out by thinking they have to dominate every platform immediately or they will get left behind. Instead of thinking this, remember that social media is most effective when it’s not over used. Post enough to stay relevant, but not so much that people get annoyed. It’s all about finding the right balance.
  3. Narrow down platforms: Remember that every single platform may not be beneficial to you. It’s okay to have a bunch of different social platforms, but narrow it down to the one where you are able to reach your core target audience. When you focus on one platform, it makes it easier for you to manage and helps you maintain an active presence.
  4. Seek out professionals: Delegate! As a small business owner there’s already too much to do and too little time. Dedicate social media work to one person, or a team of people who can focus on it. Social media is more effective when it’s kept up to date.
  5. Stick with it: Persistence is the key to success. Establishing a known presence on social media can take some time, but always remember the longer you stick with it the more exposure you’ll get and the more your audience will grow. This will help you gain loyal customers and introduce your brand/business to new audiences.

When you take a strategic approach, anyone can be successful in the social media world. Stand out, be consistent and have fun!