Food photography after redeeming an offer from Smart Pickle

Using Social Media to Your Advantage

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have revolutionized business marketing. Used correctly, social media can transform the way you promote products, share news, and interact with customers. In this article, we’ll explore helpful tips for using social media to grow your business.

Start small

With dozens of platforms available, getting started can be overwhelming. Feel free to start small. Instead of creating a profile on every major platform, select one or two channels based on your marketing goals. Consider Facebook if you gravitate towards visual content and seek to connect with customers on a personal level. Join Twitter if you want to reach customers with short, snappy updates. Regardless of your preferences, there’s a platform for you.

Use customer preferred channels

Research which channels are popular within your customer demographic and talk to customers about their social media preferences. Ask customers how they would like to receive information regarding promotions, events, and new location openings and use this information to inform your choice of platform.

Regardless of your preferences, there's a social media platform for you.

Keep content relevant

Keep customers engaged by sharing content that interests them. If your customers tend to follow local breweries on Twitter, run a drinks promotion. If you notice customers expressing interest in a local band’s Facebook event, try hosting live music at your restaurant. Adjust content as you learn more about customer’s interests and don’t be afraid to try something new.

Develop your voice

Social media may be relational, but it’s also important to maintain professionalism. Be intentional about what you post and stay true to your brand and voice. Being consistent throughout all modes of communication–including social media content–builds customer’s trust. If you don’t already have a distinct brand voice, spend some time developing one.

Maintain good netiquette

Be respectful and understand the platforms you use. If you’re unfamiliar with how to appropriately use a given social media outlet, do your research. Using a platform incorrectly will minimize your reach and can damage your relationship with customers.

Stay active

Staying active communicates that you’re engaged with your community and available to customers. Try to update content frequently–daily when possible. Have a trusted employee help manage your social media accounts to increase efficiency.