We all know that the social media world tends to be a giant obstacle course, especially for businesses. So there is no right way on what to do on social media. But turns out there are some wrong ways.
We know that one mistake isn’t the end of the world to your customers. But we have created a list of some social media fails that you can try to avoid so you know what not to do!
1) Ignoring negative comments or feedback
One of the worst mistakes a business can make is to ignore their customers’ feedback and concerns. You are sending them a message that they are not important and that you just don’t care. When a customer has an issue with your product or brand, you should always issue an apology, no matter how small you feel the matter is.
You may think that it’s just one customer but as we all know on social media, everyone is watching, and that one customer can influence many with their comment. It’s a snowball effect that you do not want to turn in to an avalanche. So deal with the issue at hand correctly to show that your business knows common etiquette and courtesy.
2) Forgetting to edit
There is nothing worse than trying to read a post from a business that is filled with spelling และ grammatical errors! You definitely wouldn’t publish a book without checking and editing, so why would you sent a tweet or write a Facebook post without checking your grammar first? Always read and re-read your posts and comments before clicking that enter button. Best to be safe than sorry! Or your post might turn in to the latest meme to go viral.
3) Taking a political stand
We see too often social media platforms being used for a political dig or debate, even in business. Our advice? Don’t. We understand that it may seem ok to post about your favourite political party or have a robust argument about the opposition – it is honestly best to just stay neutral in the matter. If you are truly passionate about politics wherever you are, maybe just make it a post of yourself with a ‘don’t forget to vote’ caption? Sweet and simple reminder.
4) Posting without a marketing strategy
You might find it easier just to jump online and post when you feel inspired. But really, it will all just look a bit ‘out of sorts’ for your followers. Creating a content strategy or a marketing plan with at least a few post ideas in advance will stop repetitive material or messages as well as knowing which posts do and don’t work. Hearing crickets from a certain post? It could have been that you posted at a different time during the day than you are used to, or even on a public holiday when people may not have social media as accessible than normal. Having a plan and keeping your ideas in one place will work in your favour in the long run.
5) Over-using #hashtags
Let’s be honest, we all love a hashtag as much as the next person. But when is it too much? Hashtags are actually used as a search tool and can categorize content for users. So if you use them properly, they will increase your visibility to followers and potential new followers. If used excessively, your post appears spammy and will then become ineffective. And until #hashtags are a thing on Facebook, don’t use them!
6) Just selling your business
Your followers already know about your business from liking your page. So don’t keep spamming them with sales pitches. There’s a good rule that says ‘80% social, 20% sales’. This means that come up with some unique content, share content from other businesses close to yours to be supportive, even the odd meme goes down a treat! Stick to one sale a post a week, whether it be a discount for loyal customers, a new menu at your in-house restaurant or any new amenities that you may have. Always remember to try and stay personable from your content.
7) Using text and no images
Visual pieces of content such as an image, gif or video are faster for us to process than just plain old text. Of course, it’s fine to have a caption to go along with some media, but don’t just rely on text to get your message across, as it might just fall flat. By using photos or video in your social media posts and paid campaigns, you will, in turn, increase your reach, engagement และ ROI.
With the social media landscape constantly evolving, the do’s and don’ts of social media etiquette for business owners will also continue to change. Staying aware of current best practices and incorporating them into your social media strategy will keep your marketing efforts fresh and effective and your business top of mind.
One last thing, feel free to share this blog 🙂