2021 Social Media Tips for Brands — How to Get Found in Online Search
2020 was a year of challenges and surprises, to say the least. From a global pandemic to a crucial election, many stressful factors kept the country on edge. However, there was one thing that helped people get through it all: social media. Can you imagine being locked in your home during the pandemic with no way to communicate to the outside world?
For many brands, the pandemic has made social media the #1 marketing strategy for 2021. Building a brand relies heavily on online engagement these days with stores closed. To get found in online search, you need to spend more time on social media.
How do I find customers if they can’t find me online?
E-commerce and social platforms are the main way that customers discover new products and services in 2021. Everyone knows they can shop online at Amazon, Target or Macy’s, but that’s old news. Customers desire novelty while stuck at home. Shopping on sites that aren’t mainstream fills that need.
Finding small brands online isn’t easy. For businesses, that is where social media hashtags and SEO research comes in. Relevant tags and keywords help customers find you more easily.
Spend time on social media looking at hashtags related to what you sell. Tap into who is buying products like yours. Connect with customers by starting a conversation with them! With social distancing keeping people apart, building relationships with customers online gives you an edge on competitors. Don’t push sales, just be authentic. Be a likable person that exemplifies your brand’s values, and customers will buy in.
2021 marketing trends for small business
These social media trends will rule in 2021.
Micro-influencers: They boast smaller audiences and a higher browser to buyer rate than big celebrities. Micro-influencers have a closer relationship with your potential customers. They are not seen as “advertisers”, so product promotions feel more authentic. More trust equals lowers buyer hesitation.
Above is a chart of the best times to post on Instagram for Easter Stantard Time. The best time to post may vary by time zone.
Content Remixing: Get customers to interact with your brand. Encourage them to take your existing content and “remix” it as their own. You post interactive content, and ask customers to repost it with their experience of your product. With permission, you can take the user-remixed content and brand it as your own. This is like free advertising.
Conversational Marketing: Strike up a conversation with potential customers online. You don’t always need promotions, ads, or Instagram posts to make sales. A pleasant message exchange may casually convince buyers that your brand will fulfill their needs!
Post More Video Content: Social media video posts, IGTV and YouTube are more convincing than static images. 85% of users spend time watching them. Unlike photos, a video helps your brand feel more “alive”. Videos increase familiarity and intrigue buyers to learn more. It also doesn’t hurt that customers spend more time on your page by watching videos.
Social Media Stories: TikTok, Instagram and Facebook stories make your brand more personal. Stories add personality to your page. It’s also a great way to get familiar with your audience and discover your brand’s top followers.
Customers will continue to rely on technology to stay connected during the pandemic. Brands must be optimistic and open minded by incorporating social media trends into branding strategies. Evaluate what is new, what has worked in the past, and how it fits your business goals. Let Quarter 1 be full of trial and error so you can continue with great momentum and unmatched sales this year!