Best Practices for Creating A Social Media Plan

Steps:

1. DEFINE YOUR AUDIENCE/ CUSTOMER: A successful online presence requires loyalty, time, focus, nurturing, and feedback. With that said, every post should speak to your desired audience or desired customer. Consider the social media platforms that best align with your goals, objective, and target audience.

2. PLAN YOUR CALENDAR: Develop a social media content calendar to help organize when your social media posts need to go out, and by which type of messaging is needed by week/month/year. This gives control over publishing and allows you to focus on the big picture rather than day-to-day posting. This also helps plan out specific content that links back to your business strategy (ex. do you need to run a promotion in Q1? Then your social media posts during that time should focus on this type of content, and type of target customer)

3. VISUAL CONTENT MATTERS: A successful social media presence is reflected by content that is visual, succinct, and consistent. Always tailor the information to platform-specific content. Being specific allows you to craft messages that resonate and speak directly to your audience.

4. CROSS PLATFORM SHARING: If you plan to share the same link or image across multiple platforms, be sure to customize your messaging and use appropriate hashtags. Hashtags increase awareness by putting your content in front of people beyond your immediate followers. Be sure to search the hashtag beforehand to ensure it is up-to-date and currently in use for being used for the wrong reasons.

5. WHEN IN DOUBT...LESS IS MORE: Focus on post quality over quantity. People follow social media accounts that they trust will provide content that is reliable and relevant to them. While it is important to post actively and regularly, make sure your content is engaging and relates to your audience community.