Business Connections for Fall 2019

FALL 2019 3 // Business Connections Looking for ways to update and strengthen your marketing program? Explore the opportunities offered by social media. Even small businesses can easily reap the rewards of social media’s benefits, which include enhanced customer satisfaction, targeted promotional opportunities, more website traffic, and expert status. Remember—the general rule with social media is to form relationships first, build trust, and then test the sales waters. Here are some quick tips: Facebook Interact with your community by posting stories, links, tips, and insider information. Start conversations by asking questions. Twitter Tweet information that might be useful to others and offer special deals only for Twitter users. You can also connect with other businesses, learn what customers are saying about you, ask for advice, and test new ideas. LinkedIn Create a strong LinkedIn profile for yourself and your company and start linking with those you could do business with. Participate in the “answers” section and use the powerful search capabilities to find new connections. YouTube As a search engine, YouTube is second only to Google. Develop a brief video to introduce yourself and your company or make instructional videos that show how to use your products. Blogs Set up a blog on your website and regularly post new entries. Encourage readers to comment and be sure to provide thoughtful responses. Marketing with Social Media A low-cost way for your business to build relationships and boost sales 6 TIPS FOR INCREASING FACEBOOK ENGAGEMENT Facebook remains a powerful way to keep fans informed of new products, give them a convenient way to contact you, increase loyalty, and provide an easy format for satisfied customers to share information about you with friends. Companies getting the most from this platform are those that actively engage and know how to work effectively with Facebook’s cur- rent algorithm. Here are a few tips for increasing Facebook engagement: 1. Post information related to your brand, such as a book store post- ing quotes from books. 2. Post product-related questions and invite followers to respond. 3. Use photos, videos, and links to get the most responses. 4. Post exclusive content that fans won’t find anywhere else. 5. Post on a consistent schedule —especially on weekends and between 6:00 and 8:00 pm. 6. Encourage employees to post information about your company from their personal accounts. Also consider paying for Facebook advertising. Find out more at face- book.com/business/products/ads. “Like” and “Follow” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ RainbowCommunications.