Similar to traditional marketing tactics, selling your products on social media starts with targeting your audience and spreading the word. However, your sales efforts require a more casual approach than the direct methods that are conventionally practiced in the off-line world. Even though social networks are primarily used for information and entertainment, they also provide insights about your prospects' interests, needs, and concerns. This can then be used to gradually convert your social media followers into loyal and satisfied customers. Here are some more tips to follow.
Determine the best social venue
Each social network is predominantly composed of one type of audience. LinkedIn is ideal for building business-to-business (B2B) relationships while Instagram may appeal more to younger people interested in the latest trends such as lifestyle and fashion. Meanwhile, Twitter's broader audience often attracts early technology adapters who want to stay informed about their interests on the go. Establish a solid presence on the most appropriate social network based on your business's products, services, and objectives.
Deliver a great presentation
Speak the same lingo as your audience by presenting your information in fun and digestible ways to help maximize your reach. Rely on visuals, such as images and videos, along with concise headlines, to grab the attention of your followers immediately. For example, Instagram recently reported that the time users spent watching video increased by over 40 percent, suggesting a powerful trend that could lead to higher engagement and leads. Additionally, establish a likable persona that is consistent with your prospects' primary way of communicating, such as using mild humor in your posts and updates.
Build trust and authority
It is nearly impossible to sell your products on social media without building a mutual sense of trust with your followers. Connect with those who have expressed interest in your industry by searching for business-related phrases and buzzwords. Posting updates with relatable hashtags (where applicable) allows more people to see your posts and potentially establish a connection with your business. Engage with your audience by answering their questions and concerns, as well as sharing any thoughts that are relatable to your industry. Most importantly, remain consistent about your posting schedule to establish a friendly and familiar presence over time.
Avoid excessive pitches
Social media is primarily a place for people to observe, learn, and have fun. For this reason, you should typically promote your products by presenting them in fun, interesting, and creative ways. For example, try linking to an article on your company blog that has a highly engaging headline, then let readers know of a relatable product that aligns with their interests. Moreover, make sure that the majority of your social updates are not directly selling a product.
Provide exclusive benefits
Having an active, lively social network account allows you to create a tight-knit community, which opens the doors to certain consumer benefits. Post exclusive offers that are available only via social networks, provide a code that shoppers can use for a discount on online and in-store purchases, and periodically reveal coupon codes to your followers. Accompany these deals with a sense of urgency, granting them only for a limited amount of time.
Run an advertising campaign
Due to increased competition, running an advertising campaign may be ideal for reaching your target audience and establishing new leads. Set a monthly advertising budget around your target demographics, track your conversion rates, and tweak the campaign according to results. For instance, using the aforementioned discount tactics could potentially boost your following and help sell more products as a result.
Retain your audience
Establish other ways to reach your social media prospects to streamline communication and potential sales. Occasionally invite your followers to sign up for your company newsletter for periodic updates that resonate with their needs and interests. This is especially useful with existing customers, as they may be more inclined to buy additional products because they have already had a positive experience with your offers.
Social media can be a viable and cost-effective venue for selling your products. Start with these tips, and consider using Vionic, which grants The UPS Store customers up to 52 percent off on powerful marketing software for platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.
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