It is obvious that social media marketing isn’t going to vanish overnight. As a result of its popularity, there are some common social media marketing myths and misconceptions that can drive your social media efforts into the ground. Ragan’s PR Daily shares a few marketing myths that might be holding you back.
With technology addiction, it’s evident that users are having trouble to say goodbye to social media. Social media marketing has become one of the top strategies that businesses adapt to. It’s also used to reach and engage with their target market and promote their services and products. Ultimately it drive leads and sales.
Magical Social media
98% of digital consumers are social media users. It’s almost strange for someone to have a business but not a social media account to accompany the brand.
Sadly, some consider social media marketing as a magic wand, to promote instant visibility in their market as supposed to helping your businesses achieve their goals.
These misconception can destroy a promising strategy. Here we will discuss the top social media myths thats keeping your business from reaching its full potential.
Numbers
Firstly – numbers! Ever heard the saying there’s power in numbers? Often people think that a large number of followers adds to a quantifiable success. Many businesses feel the need to chase more likes and follows via their social media accounts.
Big numbers doesn’t mean that you’ve automatically gained a new customer. On the contrary, some of your viewers might not be in the market for what your business or brand is offering.
It’s important to focus on the engaging metrics to determine how many of your views are actual customers or clients. Quality over quantity.
Free marketing
Although it’s free to open an account (personal or corporate) on major social media platforms, it’s important to consider the time you will have to invest. Research, effort and refinement all demands time and commitment.
While it takes attention and hard work to keep your social media up to date with your brand or business, it’s important to remember that there are social media marketers that are willing to lend a helping hand. They will ensure that all the valuable time invested in your social media marketing strategy pays off with a higher ROI.
Success
A lot of people believe that social media is for Millennials. Correction – social media is for anyone that is willing to learn, no matter what year you were born.
According to HubSpot:
- 40% of active Facebook users are over the age of 35.
- 52% of internet users, between the age of 55 and 64, have joined a social network.
Remember that social media is a tool to not only get your name out there but more importantly, a tool to communicate with your market. Talk to your customers and let them know that you are a reliable and trustworthy source.
Which platform
It’s tempting to sign up to every platform. This is a typical case of ‘go deep for dough and wide for show’ – meaning, it’s best to focus on one platform and dominate it, instead of getting distracted and leaving loose ends.
Not only is each social media platform built differently, but each platform has been designed for a different purpose. This might be difficult adjusting oneself to these different layouts and functions.
If you are aiming for discussions, Twitter would be your best bet. Instagram is better suited for showcasing products. Don’t spread yourself too wide and be too thin. Choose the platform where you’ll get the best results. Ask yourself: “Which network does my audience spend time on?”
Managing social media is a time consuming activity and it’s important to give your chosen platform the time, effort and dedication it deserves.
Seperate strategy
Even though, social media is described as an independent strategy, it still runs best when used along with other interrelated strategies such as SEO, content marketing, personal branding and influencer marketing.
Your social media posts are backed up by branding and the presence of your website to boost organic posts that are captivating and interesting to your followers. The reach of your website and content can be multiplied through your social media efforts.
Natural audience
Above all, your main aim is to create high-quality material. Although good content will attract the right crowd, you still need to promote it correctly to reach the right audience. As a result, ensure your content is of such a nature, that will encourage your audience to share your posts on their own.
The hashtag
Hashtags join common conversation threads about events or marketing campaigns and special events. It’s essential to be moderate when using hashtags as it can also come across as spamming your audience.
In conclusion, using social media to better your brand or business is definitely beneficial. Social media is not only affordable but also a valuable strategy that is especially helpful with the connection of potential audiences.