Understanding social media

Social media has transformed the way we communicate with each other, and has become a gage of how businesses of all sizes tap into their customers. Most companies now have a presence on social media, as their target demographics are readily streaming information daily through applications such as Facebook and Twitter.

As a communication tool, it’s extremely important to know how to use it effectively to enhance brand loyalty as well as mitigate PR disasters from going viral. Using social media strategically can help your organisation achieve its commercial goals and objectives through tailored and targeted content.

To avoid miscommunication with your audiences, here are four areas digital and community managers should consider before pressing that activation button.

1. What is the purpose of using social media?

Before you or your digital team create an account, discuss what value they see in using the platform. Many businesses join social media for the sake of having a presence, but if mismanaged or neglected, it can have a detrimental effect on the brand. Establish clear digital goals and objectives with your team, and identify which platforms can best achieve them. This will ensure your business knows why you are using social media and the purpose behind the activity.

2. Who is your audience?

Knowing your audience is crucial when creating targeted campaigns on social media. Brainstorm who your target demographics are and identify their preferred communication channel. Each social platform has its own unique audience, meaning not all Facebook users will be part of the Twitter audience. When creating social media content, ensure it’s tailored to the platform and its target audience. To maximise your business’ social engagement and extend your reach.

3. Your social interaction

Having a social media account can expand your business’s reach, but if misused, it can also inflict damage to your brand and deter audience engagement.  Determine what behaviours you will and won’t accept online as anything else can effect your business’ reputation. Appoint an individual or small team to be in charge of social media, to avoid other contributions that may not be in line with your business goals.

4. Creating content

Although social media is another avenue to advertise your services, it doesn’t necessarily mean traditional marketing posters will be effective. To increase your audience reach and engagement on social media, it’s important the materials used are displayed in user-friendly posts. Each platform uses different styles of content to communicate with its audiences, so expand your tactics by incorporating videos, images, text, vlogs, blogs and podcasts across your selected channels. This also gives you a chance to track and measure what topics your audiences are engaging with so you can tailor future content accordingly.

If you are interested in taking your social media to the next level, and learn what it can do for your brand, contact Elevate for an obligation free chat on â�ª(07) 3180 3666.