Trendy Social Media Tools

We all know about Facebook and Twitter and how more and more businesses are taking advantage of these sites to create brand awareness and increase sales, but now that tons of companies are using Social Media to market themselves, how can YOUR brand stand out from the rest? Don't limit yourself to just Facebook and Twitter, think outside the box and try new tools to market your business. Social Media marketing is evolving and the current trends all point to a visual theme. You'll notice that even on Facebook and Twitter the amount of photos and video content has increased greatly. We see words so often, it can sometimes all blend together, but pictures and video break through the clutter, catch the consumers eye, and are much more engaging. If you want to stand apart from your competition, try using some of these trendy Social Media tools!

YouTube

 Video Marketing is one of the most effective internet tools available to us. It will increase brand awareness and drive traffic to your website. The key to effective video marketing is to provide quality content and publish video content on a consistent basis. Some key elements may include helpful information, how-to instructions, comedy, or a strong message. www.YouTube.com

FourSquare

If you’re business has a location that your customers visit frequently, FourSquare would be a great tool for you! Customers can “Check-In” at your location with their smart phones and you can offer them exclusive specials and discounts, as well as promote events! www.FourSquare.com

Pinterest

Pinterest has become one of the most popular Social Media sites in a short time. If your business involves anything visual, then Pinterest is for you! With this site you can create boards by category and “pin” pictures of your product/service and link it back to your website! www.Pinterest.com

Instagram

Instagram is another visual tool. This is a smartphone app where you can upload photos, and other Instagram users can follow you to view your photos. You can also “tag” your photos with hastags (key words preceded by a number sign. Ex: #Hashtag) to spread outreach. www.Instagram.com (Download the app on your smartphone to start using)

Here are some helpful tips to remember while using these tools:

Visual. Many of these tools are visual, as this is the direction Social Media Marketing is heading. Use this to your advantage and create eye-catching material.

Interaction. Social Media is all about connection. Use Social Media Marketing to connect and interact with your consumers to create a personal and lasting relationship with them.

Branding. All of these tools are an extension of your brand and allow you to create a reoccurring theme across all of the outlets you are using. Make it unique to your company.

Integration. Marketing is most effective when all elements are working together in unison. Develop your brand message and make sure it is present in all Marketing efforts.