More often than not people feel like their Social Media efforts are getting them nowhere. This is extremely common especially for the smaller, lesser known businesses, products and brands. When things don’t go the way we planned we immediately think that Social Media itself is to blame and that it really will never work for what your goals are.
This is in fact incorrect and here are 10 reasons why things may not be working in your favor Online.
1. Your goals are unrealistic
You think that because Walmart and Target have generated millions upon millions of followers, fans and engaged conversations that this is where your brand should also be. You compare how they use their Social Media to how you use yours.
Fact is, what works for them is NOT going to work for you. You’re a smaller business and you need to create realistic goals. Some of the most awesome strategies Online are being run by companies with less that 5,000 followers.
2. You skimp on the engagement
Blasting content, promotional advertisements and news articles is not and never will be enough. Today consumers are looking to have conversations. They not only want to let you know their thoughts, but they also want to know you care about what they have to say.
3. You follow everyone
You think that the more you follow, the more will buy. This might be true if you were using the “targeting” approach, but simply following a ton of accounts is like going to a driving range blindfolded.
4. You dedicate all of your personal accounts to advertising
There is nothing worse than connecting with a long lost friend on Facebook only to find out he or she does nothing but promotote their “LinkeIn Class” or newest service, blog post etc… I personally will share blogs on my personal sites when I feel like it will help those I’m connected to, but the difference is that those posts take up 5% of my total engagement. Try to keep the promotion on your fanpage and business dedicated accounts. That’s where people are wanting to see this content.
5. Your strategy is to “wing it”
Basically you have no strategy which leaves you scattered and looking out of control. Focus is key even in Social Media.
6. You’re too afraid to be different
Social Media isn’t a one size fits all which means those brands that can be different and are willing to step outside the norm are more likely to be seen than those that do the same as others. Give people a reason to want to connect with you
7. The message is never different
You constantly post the same message to all of your platforms at the same time giving people no reason to follow and connect with your brand on multiple platforms.
8. You choose automation over real time engagement
Sure, automation is quick and easy, but sometimes just because there’s an easier way it doesn’t mean it’s the best. Schedule posts, but leave the automation to the spammers and bots.
9. You wait
A new platform is signing up beta testers and you choose to wait to see how others feel about it before trying. Brands that get in before others tend to kick ass on new platforms.
10. You gauge your success by how many followers you have and what your Klout score might be
Your so caught up on scores and numbers that you forget that the numbers are actual real people. Numbers mean nothing when you have no idea where you’re going with your campaign.
11. You gave up to soon
This is probably the worst thing any business can do. Just because you aren’t seeing the results you were hoping for after few months doesn’t mean that you have wasted time or that there’s no place for your business Online; it simply means you need to strategize something new.
When all else fails try consulting a Social Media Strategist to assist in figuring out why things aren’t working and help creatively come up with new campaign; try keeping track of your Social Analytics as well as this will show you what creates the engagement and what is being ignored.
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{ 14 comments… read them below or add one }
Thanks for the post. I have a never really taken off in the social engagement aspect of my site. I get only so far and then I can’t seem to cross the next hurdle. I am caught up in the numbers though. I have even thought about buying likes and followers.
Matt McGuire�´s last [type] ..Canon 5DX
Obviously, unrealistic goals will get you nowhere. Focus first, be open to new things and have patience. I love the 11 tips here.
Liz Makes Money Online�´s last [type] ..H&R Block Promo Codes 2012
I find this post really true, Kim. I think the most common scenario is that we tend to give up too soon. Although it is a cliche already, Patience is a virtue and it will always be. But be careful, though, because sometimes we need to make the changes so the wait will be worth it.
Hi Kim, It’s one comprehensive set of tips on how to gauge if someone has hit the dead-end with regards to Social Media. All these things are noted. As a beginner, I surely wouldn’t want my future efforts to come at a dead-end, especially without realizing it. Let me keep these things in mind.
Thanks so much, Liz!
Buying likes and follows is great if you just want to “appear” successful, but if you truly want to target and connect with those that will give a damn about your brand then you really need to put some time, effort and perhaps some skin in the game to help you strategize and achieve your goals.
Hi Kim,
You are completely right. Most people expect overnight results and then when it doesn’t happen, their ill prepared plan folds. All these types of ‘advertising yourself’ and any other advertising takes time. A lot of folks think that they can create a brand instantly. Everything takes time and a good clear plan to make it happen. Great information from you!
Ann�´s last [type] ..Debt Settlement Los Angeles
True. I think its important just to be natural, express you thoughts and share your ideas and to do that not for business, but for people!
Good Tips! Its obvious without proper road map and with unrealistic goals you will be no where! In Social media optimization you have to play your cards wisely! Right move at right time will decisive factor!
Great post…
These 11 reasons are really true…
Unrealistic goal definitely lead to dead end…
First we have to set a goal then only we will work hard to achieve a goal…
Thanks for sharing…
Becoming different or having a strategy such as differentiation even if you’re not having a business online is something that’s very important which we should employ in our businesses. Anyway, these tips about social media strategy are really amazing.
Thanks so much
Thanks so much, Ann. Glad I could provide this information and yes, it takes time.
You are completly right! i agree with you, thanks for the post