As we begin to wrap up the internship, Joe wanted to make sure to cover a couple of very important topics that deserve special attention.
We covered social media in a brief way early in his business coaching as a general part of marketing overall but with the way that social media dominates our lives today, he wanted to take time to single it out.
Joe personally believes that in this industry no matter how big social media gets, nothing will beat word of mouth. But social media has definitely taken second place and understanding its importance and how to use it is critical to success in every business.
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, your website and all the rest provide you the best way to build a brand to not only get business but interact with it on a consistent basis. There are people called influencers who literally run their entire business online and have become internet celebrities who don't work with anyone in person and are literally rich.
In his experience, the most important thing is to determine how you want to present yourself and what your goals are and be consistent in your communication through your chosen outlets.
Below is an outline Joe used to teach me about Social Media that I want to share.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Strategy/Approach
-Goals/objectives (measurable, specific, attainable, relevant, deadline)
-Conduct focus groups (Facebook)
-Research other social media platforms in your industry
-Create a content plan/schedule and execute
-Evaluate and improve
-Consistent
-Scarcity (minimalistic) vs surplus (excessive)
-Exclusivity vs inclusivity
-Personality and humor
Sites
-Facebook
· Business page
-YouTube
· Channel
-Instagram
· Business page
-Snapchat
Content
-Original (video and print)
· Marketing/services
· Educational/tutorial
· Behind the scenes
· Quotes, memes etc…
· Business updates
· Client spotlights/profiles
· Major holidays
· Contests/challenges/giveaways
· Employment/intern opportunities
· Charity
· Polls/surveys/lists
· Hashtags
· Live stream
· Interviews
· Documentaries
· Podcasts
· Info-graphics
· Webinars
· Product/service reviews
-Third party
-Content from industry related platforms
-User generated (clients engaged in services or using products, testimonials)
WEBSITE
-Exclusive content
-Merchandise
-Online services