Suppose it was a way you could push a button that opens a curtain to millions of raving fans. These fans love your product, and not only are they buying, but they’re telling the world.
Whew! Then you woke up and realized you never got started on your social media marketing. But it’s not too late.
Many new businesses questioned whether to jump on or not, on the social media bandwagon.
Your dream can become a reality, but only if you follow strict rules and avoid the pitfalls that newbie marketers often make.
Our article reveals the 6 Social Media Mistakes You Must Avoid that can wreck your marketing efforts.
Avoid these, and you’ll be well on your way to headlining one of the largest social media platform stages, Ever! (A little dramatic, but you feel me, Right?)
Let’s get started.
6 Social Media Mistakes You Must Avoid For a Smooth Start
1. Find your Unique Voice
Social media can intimidate even the “bold and brash”. So, don’t feel like you’re the lion in The Wizard of Oz. Even those with two left feet get views and applause.
I recently watched an interview with Jenny Hoyos, who not too long ago started creating short-form content. Jenny found a way to transform any video to go viral. WOW! (That’s her claim, and she has the numbers to prove it.)
She’s not a singer, or dancer, or does dog tricks, but she has grown a huge following. We don’t have to have a daily viral video, but we do have to get started.
Keep reading …
Example of Uniqueness:
Who is your favorite singer or entertainer? Let’s choose a singer. Chances are, even if you’ve never heard a certain song, you know it’s them. We often say, “Is that Beyoncé or Taylor Swift?” They have a uniqueness that stands out. This was proved early in their careers.
What do we like about them? Chances are, it’s their uniqueness and authenticity.
That’s not to say you shouldn’t learn from their videos—especially if you’re a newbie Duplicating success is always a smart business.
But don’t become a “me too.” That position is already taken. Be mindful, that you are exactly what your raving fans are looking for your take on the very same subject matter.
Mimicking every other YouTube short makes your brand forgettable. Don’t be vanilla… stand out amongst the crowd.
Here’s how to start …
How to Find Your Unique Voice on Social Media
Embrace You – Your Authenticity
To keep it simple,” Do YOU”, Don’t try to be someone you’re not. You are unique, no one has the same experiences, which is your most valued asset. Your story, trials, battles, and wins are unique.
Share your true self and your audience will connect with your authenticity.
Classify What Makes You Distinctive
Remember social media is like any other marketing medium you must find what will set you apart. Reflect on your special gifts and talents. How can you display them in an engaging and informative way? Always add flair, a personal approach, and a distinctive voice.
Retain Consistency in your Messaging
Without consistency, your audience won’t get to see who you are. People follow people. So, building a recognizable brand voice is key.
Stick to your core message your unique selling proposition (USP) and your values in every piece of content you create. This helps in showing trust and a strong identity over time.
Don’t shy away from Engaging with Your Audience
Read comments and feedback. That is your first-party data. You can learn more about that here. What is First-Party Data? The comment will tell you their likes and dislikes and use that to refine your message or delivery.
Experiment and Evolve
Being consistent and authentic doesn’t mean you can try new things. People love new, modern, and emerging trends. Try finding those updates that resonate with you and your message. Don’t be afraid to try new things and develop your voice as you grow.
2. Posting Inconsistently
Now that you have gained your footing, it’s time to prepare to post consistently. How long would you stick with your favorite TV show if sometimes it’s on and other times it’s not? I can answer that—once! Then, on to the next.
Spontaneity is good sometimes, like in a relationship, but not in this case. Creating a regular schedule shows your professionalism and dependability. Consistent posting builds reliable viewership. Remember, ‘you want to stay top of mind’
The world keeps turning therefore there will always be new something to talk about.
Sample Posting Schedule:
Monday to Friday: Post daily with a mix of content types.
- Monday: Start the week with motivation and inspiration.
- Tuesday: Share industry news, emerging trends, or informative posts.
- Wednesday: Shine the light on someone else—share insights from another creator.
- Thursday: Show your audience your other side, and post funny stories or videos.
- Friday: Engage and interact—post polls, quizzes, and questions.
- Saturday to Sunday: Users are laid back; try doing the same. Keep it light, fun, or inspirational, especially on Sunday.
Here are the most popular post types:
- Funny: Who doesn’t like to laugh? Your audience wants to know you’re human and not AI.
- User-Generated Content (UGC): We all have different perspectives; this is where UGC comes into play. Share a collaborator’s take on a similar subject matter.
- Variety of Formats: Each of your followers is unique and prefers to learn and engage differently. Some people would rather read, others like videos or images like charts and graphs. Be sure to cater to different comprehension styles.
3. Addressing Negative Feedback: How to Approach It
Inappropriate Handling of Negative Feedback
OMG, no they didn’t say that! You’re ready to lose your cool. Unfortunately, doing so can cause more harm than good. Remember Michelle Obama; says, to always aim high.
So, not if but when you receive your first negative comment, don’t panic or immediately reach for the delete button, because that can make you look like you have something to hide.
Attack negativity head-on and come out smelling like roses.
How to Think and Act on Negative Comments:
- Negative Comments Are Opportunities: This is one of your best opportunities to showcase who you are because everyone is watching. Try getting to the root of the negativity by asking questions. The commenter will repent or reveal their intent, and your audience is watching.
- Learn More for Less: Comments, even negative ones, are learning experiences. Deep dive to find a solution; you may uncover another perspective. It’s another chance to shine, not show out!
Recap:
- Openly address negative feedback. This builds trust and loyalty.
- Complaints are opportunities to prove your brand’s integrity.
4. Overly Promotional Content
As the saying goes, people love to buy but don’t like to be sold to. That’s proven true because billions of dollars are spent online annually. This shows that consumers will spend money if presented with the right approach.
Why can people sell, while others can’t even sell a chicken wing? Some prerequisites must be met before users fork over their hard-earned cash. You must earn their trust and respect.
How would you feel if every time you visited a website or watched a video, you were hard sold to? Would you do the same? That is leave and never return.
I’m no stranger to unsubscribing from emails. Those who sent promotional emails begging for money; all the time, got to go!
5. Hashtag Pitfall
Misusing Hashtags
Some creators regularly use hashtags, while others never bother. The good news is that some social media platforms don’t focus too much on them and other platforms they’re a must.
Using hashtags can boost your visibility but overusing them or using irrelevant ones can backfire. A sentence like this is a distraction and an improper use of hashtags:
#Don’tForgetToFollow #MeOnFacebook for more #MarketingTips and #Tricks.
There’s a method to the madness of ‘hashtagology,’ and throwing in hashtags just because they’re trending won’t cut the mustard.
Why It Doesn’t Work:
- Looks Spammy: Overloading posts with hashtags makes your content look cluttered and thirsty— “the new desperate.”
- Missed Connections: Irrelevant hashtags attract the wrong audience and dilute your message.
What you should do is hashtag research. Incorporate hashtags that align with your message. Use them strategically to attract existing and future customers.
6. Don’t Shy Engagement
Don’t Shy Away from Engagement
As a newbie, you prefer to stay behind the curtains rather than put yourself out there, so you don’t engage. First, this sends the wrong message. And second, your audience knows.
When you first start on a platform, it can feel like performing in an empty auditorium. You’re giving it all you got, but by the 25th show, you might find yourself, as my mom would say, “half-assing it.”
One person claps, and you barely acknowledge them before running off stage. That’s just part of the growing pains and the journey. Remember, social media is a two-way street. Keep engaged through comments and DMs. That’s how you turn followers into loyal fans.
How to engage smartly, not harder.
How to Use AI and Tools for Social Listening and Engagement
What are social listening tools:
Social media Listening Tools are AI-driven tools used to watch conversations about your brand. This helps you listen without having to keep your ear to the ground, it tracks customer comments in real-time.
FAQ
1. How often should I post on social media?
The correct answer is it depends. Every social media network is different. You should post daily for several reasons—this is the only way to gather data. Your insights will eventually give you a clear vision.
2. What should I do if I receive a negative comment?
Stay calm. Respond directly and try to understand the comment; it may be a test. Remember, handling negativity is part of the game and is your chance to showcase your commitment to customer satisfaction.
3. How can I improve my social media engagement?
Create engaging interactive content, such as polls, questions, and quizzes. Respond quickly to comments and questions, to improve your social relationships.
4. Is it necessary to be active on all social media platforms?
A huge mistake that newbie marketers make is op. Trying to be everywhere at once will wear you out. So no, focus on the platforms where your audience is most active.
It’s better to be strong on a few platforms than spread too thin across all of them.
5. How do I create a content calendar for social media?
Grab a free calendar template online or create one on Canva for free. Fill your calendar with a variety of post types. This helps you get a clear vision of your content, so you can tweak and refine it as needed.
Conclusion:
A lot was covered, and we hope you feel comfortable enough to jump on the social media bandwagon. As entrepreneurs, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed trying to keep up with other things.
Especially something that can seem like a time hog, such as social media marketing.
The truth is brands that keep up with the latest trends win. Your customers want to be in the know; everybody wants to be a cool kid on the block.
Missing out on trends means falling behind competitors. Integrating the latest strategies can transform your social media presence.
Recap:
- Post consistently. Inconsistency will delay your progress.
- Use a combo of post types: e.g., fun, motivational, videos, and informational.
- Be authentic: Do you stand out? Don’t bend—be bold.
- Engage with followers: Don’t ignore your community; answer questions and comments.
Now it’s your turn!
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