Today, most marketers recognize the value of social media in promoting their products. Whether you design websites or own a cupcake shop, social media allows you to connect with millions of potential customers. Many businesses find that even a little work on a few sites can yield a high return on investment.
However, you may not be clear on how to best use social media to procure sales. There is often a fine line between not offering enough promotions and posting so often that it annoys your followers. While you do want to be noticed, you don’t want followers to unsubscribe from your page. Here are some tips for how to best use social media to procure sales.
Hold a Contest
Who doesn't love the opportunity to win free stuff? Contests are great ways to both attract new followers and engage your existing customers. Holding a contest may not boost your sales immediately, but it will help you in the long run. Whether you hold a one-time contest for playground equipment or give away small items each week, people love the idea of receiving something for free. Waiting for the results of a contest can be fun and exciting, and it's for that reason that people often share contests with their own friends and followers.
If you do hold a contest on social media, just make sure you aren't violating any of the platform’s rules. For example, on Facebook you can’t require users to like your page before they enter the contest. As long as you stay ethical, though, a contest is a fun way to boost your following.
Offer Special Sales or Promotions
Offering discount codes or similar promotions via social media is great incentive for users to follow you on the sites. People of all ages and demographics love sales. There's just something exhilarating about receiving a great product for a fraction of the original price. In fact, many users follow a brand on social media in the hopes that they'll receive a discount.
Interact with Users
Social media is primarily a communications tool. That’s why you need to make sure you're engaging with customers in addition to offering discounts and promotions. If customers are having a discussion, jump in, especially if it doesn't directly involve the promotion of your products. Personal interaction shows customers you care and are willing to listen.
Also, be sure to post high-quality, engaging content in addition to sales and discount codes. Posting a link to an interesting blog or news article will often pique a customer's interest. Sharing an article may not immediately lead to a sale, but it will build your relationship with your customers.
Time Your Posts
Timing is everything in the world of social media. If you post too infrequently, you won't be at the forefront of your customers' minds. On the flip side, you could annoy your followers if you post too much. How frequently you post content depends to a large extent on the type of platform you're using. On Twitter, it's fine to tweet a few times a day, but on Facebook a few times a week may be more than enough. With any site, be sure you're alternating promotional posts with those aimed at engaging your customers.
Keep these tips in mind as you continue to tweak your social-media campaign. As long as you’re patient, engage your customers and try to have fun while doing it, you’ll be successful at driving sales through social media.
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