We all know managing a blog is so much more than a hobby. It’s practically a full-time job! Aside from creating fresh content on a frequent basis, we’re constantly tweeting, Facebook-ing, Pinning, Instagram-ing and now most recently, Vine-ing. In order to really make our social media footprint last for our blog and brand, it’s key that you’re consistently keeping up with your readers on all platforms and continuing to be a go-to resource.
Image via Pinterest
So what makes me an expert? By day, I’m a social media marketing consultant for a bevy of small and mid-market companies, coming up with content strategies that will improve their online presence. Here are my top tips for developing and managing your social media pages, more specifically, Facebook.
1. Check your branding. The first thing readers will see when they look at your social media page is your profile photo and cover image. For your profile pictures, focus on an image that would help readers immediately identify your
page. Cover photos and background images should complement your brand/what you cover.
2. Diversify your content. Instead of only posting new blog posts on your social media pages, incorporate more content that is not about you. Self-promotional posts typically lack engagement and can be repetitive. Behind-the-scenes photos and links to other website articles relevant to your area of expertise will instantly add more content to your page.
3. Engage with your followers. It’s the same as commenting on blogs. Show your followers that you’re reading their comments on your Facebook page by “liking” it or commenting back. When followers are asking questions like, “Where’d you get that handbag?” or “What’s your favorite lip product right now?” try responding back within a reasonable time period.
4. Be consistent. If you can dedicate 30 minutes to 1 hour a day on social media, there is no doubt you will increase the number of followers a week. Frequency is just as important as the content you’re posting (I try to post 2-3 times a day on my Facebook page). If you can get 10 new followers a week, you’re in good shape.
5. Come up with a social media promotion. Browse the web for Facebook apps that you can install on your page (North Social offers great apps) and come up with a cool giveaway or contest that will not only elicit more engagement but will increase your page growth.
Social media is hard and, yes, it take time to grow followers, but following some basic instruction can make a tremendous difference for your page and your blog. The most important tip to take away from this is to remember to be authentic. Readers will know when you’re forcing it on social media (just like they will on your blog), so remember to be yourself!
Kara Manos writes the DC beauty blog Politics of Pretty.
Really good tips! Thanks.