It’s a common trend these days for businesses to begin their digital marketing efforts by just jumping in. They create a Facebook, a Twitter, and maybe even an Instagram or a Snapchat, post creatively for a week or two, and then let it fall by the wayside at the mercy of “more important things.”
Let’s put it this way: if we got rid of all the unused business accounts on Social Media, the Internet would be a smaller place.
Hopefully none of this is hitting too close to home, but if it is then rest assured there are paths you can take to improve. That’s why we’re talking the third step of the Spynr WASH Methodology – Search and Social.
Don’t Start on Step 3
Right up front, I want to say that this isn't where you should be starting. Take time to Invest in your Website and Nail Down your Target Audience before you truly delve deeply into building out your Social Media and Search Engine strategies.
When You DO Start, Start Here.
The beginning of every great endeavor is planning. There’s no way around it. If you don’t have a plan for getting to the top of Search Engines, or for improving your Social Media presence, then you’re off to a bad start. Take some time to set some goals for yourself, and make sure they're SMART ones (that's Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-based).
Once you've got a plan and some goals, it's time to consider where your audience hangs out online, which is where Search Engines and Social Media come in. These are far and away the best platforms available to help you bring people into your audience. Let's talk about how to use them.
"Everyone Needs Social Media"
But, do they really?
As I mentioned earlier, Social Media sites are littered with the debris of failed attempts at building online communities that revolve around businesses. Aside from lack of follow-through, have you ever wondered why that is? The most likely culprit - and usually the more correct answer - is that potential customers were never around that site in the first place.
Your first question when approaching Social Media should always be whether or not your target customers are actually likely to use it. If they are, you're in business. If not, then you either need to keep looking around for other options, or just skip down to the Search Engines section.
What if I Have An Audience?
Great! You've found a wonderful tool that can truly be the lifeblood of your digital marketing efforts. You now have a window to the daily lives of your customers, which means you can begin to build a community around your business. Create original posts, share relevant content, and be active in engaging with your followers. If you can, devote a social media team to creating your perfect online community. Do it right, and your Social Media can help you thrive.
Above All Else - Be Patient
Building an online community takes time. Treat Social Media as you would a long term investment, and let it grow organically. Be consistent in your messaging, and don't look for shortcuts or quick ways to the top because they usually backfire. As your online reputation grows, you'll find that more and more quality leads and customers will come through your social channels.
The Secrets of Search Engines.
Search Engines are, quite literally, the backbone of the internet. They're the metaphorical road signs that help us navigate the tricky pathways of the Internet.
They're also constantly receiving updates, changes, and new features.
How does one keep up? With diligent care, practice, and a lot of help.
Is it worth it though? Absolutely. Most estimates say around 92% percent of Search Engine users don't go past the first results page, and close to 90% of B2B deals begin in a search bar. If you're not on that first page, then you're missing out.
Start With What You Can Control
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can be tricky, but there are some tried and true methods that you can employ to get things started on the right foot. First and foremost, make sure your website stays up to date. Post relevant
and shareable content on a regular basis, and complement all of this with an active Social Media presence (if you can). Focus on the quality of your online presence, and find little ways to improve your website when you can. This is a longer term strategy, but all it requires is your time and energy.
Find Trusted Help
For results in the short and long runs , it really does pay off finding someone to help you. Like I mentioned earlier, Search Engines are constantly changing, which makes it difficult to keep up. Stay focused on your business, and find someone you trust to tackle the daily nuts and bolts of SEO.
Be Patient - Again!
Optimizing for Search Engines to notice you consistently takes time and effort. The great thing is that people will always be searching for businesses like yours. Starting now will always be better than waiting!
