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These days, a good social media marketing strategy is essential for any business with an online presence. Platforms including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have completely changed the way companies connect with the public, intertwining marketing with common digital pursuits like messaging and sharing photos.

 

For many organizations, social media falls under the umbrella of general marketing. However, the specialized nature encourages many to pursue proven solutions, such as social media marketing companies like Social Vantage. Regardless of your approach, it’s important to maximize the return on your investment by utilizing the right channels effectively.

 

Understanding the Primary Platforms

You’ve heard the names before, perhaps even used some networks for business reasons, like Google Plus or LinkedIn. An effective social media marketing strategy makes the best possible use of each platform, exposing your brand consistently to those most likely to be interested in your products or services. Get familiar with these common technologies for starters:

 

  • Facebook: A vast network of active users from all walks of life, messaging, sharing, creating events, invitations, and more.

 

  • Twitter: Extremely current exchange of news and information where one can read, post, and follow specific users to create personalized content feeds.

 

  • Instagram: Geared toward sharing pictures and short videos, media uploaded to Instagram is often reposted on other social media sites such as those listed above.

 

  • Pinterest: Collections of shared content presented with an appealing graphic visual format, organized topically.

 

Many channels offer similar services—Google Plus was introduced as an alternative to Facebook, for example. While you don’t need to cover every service, it’s important to execute well on those platforms you do utilize.

 

Social Marketing vs. Traditional Methods

The general principle of social media marketing is staying in touch. By creating an active, lasting connection with prospective customers, you open the door for constant brand exposure. This differs from many traditional marketing methods, as the goal isn’t necessarily to influence a specific purchase. Instead, your social media marketing strategy should be built around establishing trust.

 

By providing relevant information, companies can gain familiarity and rapport with individuals online. For example, a travel agency might regularly post travel tips or travel facts to create a sustained audience. As result, that collection of users will more likely be receptive to future promotional offers and more traditional marketing techniques.

 

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Modernize Your Approach

Navigating social networks can be tricky business if you’re not experienced, but an effective marketing plan is certainly within reach. Companies like Social Vantage know what it takes to make effective, impactful connections through coordinated marketing campaigns. If you’re feeling a little intimidated by the social media sphere, consider letting the experts guide the way for you.

About Grant Cooper

Grant Cooper is the co-founder and CEO of Social Vantage, a prominent social media management agency based out of Philadelphia, PA. Over the last three years, Grant and his team have worked with hundreds of businesses across six continents, created thousands of campaigns and generated well over 100,000 leads for businesses through social media marketing. Grant is a passionate hockey fan and a regular attendee at Philadelphia Flyers games.