How to Stay Consistent on Social Media
In the world we live in today, a business that isn't active on social media is practically non-existent. But how do we keep up with running and operating our business on top of running and operating our social media? That’s why we have social media managers, right? As a small business owner, you’re probably already juggling a million and one things, so updating your Instagram, TikTok and Facebook channels consistently can feel overwhelming. If you’re frustrated with keeping up with it all, well, join the club. Because I bet each and every small business owner feels the same way.
But, don’t panic! I'm going to share just a few tips to stay consistent and stay ahead of the game on your social media.
1. Schedule Your Posts
Scheduling posts ahead of time can help manage your time better and ensure that you always have content online.
If you’re spending an hour daily updating your social media channels, you’re wasting your time. Even I don't have time for that...so trust me, there’s a more efficient way.
I use a social media tool called Metricool to map out and schedule posts. There are other programs like Buffer, Hootsuite, Later, or Sprout Social that are also helpful.
HINT: Have a content strategy and calendar ready! For my social media clients, I create a revolving 3 month content calendar that maps out upcoming events, holidays, launches, and other promotions. This helps me avoid writers block, inconsistent content, and last minute posts. A content calendar ensures you share quality content, your messaging is consistent, and allows you to see into and prepare for the future.
2. Repurpose Your Content
During slower seasons, instead of creating fresh content out of nothing, repurposing your existing content that already resonates with your audience will ensure that we stay consistent and fluid with your online presence.
For example, I can take an old blog post, break it down into bite-sized pieces, and use it as a social media post. I also create infographics, videos, and a series of visually appealing posts, all of which can be shared across platforms.
3. Post When Your Audience is Active
Posting on social media is all about timing. The best time to post depends on your audience’s habits. I pay attention to when my client's audience is most active and use that as guidance for posting times. I take note of a number of things such as analytics to check when they’re most active or simply checking the replies, likes, and comments they receive on their post. My scheduling tool that I mentioned before has a great feature that gives me suggested times to post as well. It analyses when your audience is most active or engaging then shows on my scheduling calendar when the best times are.
4. Use Social Media Automation
Social media automation is a powerful tool that can make managing your social media accounts a breeze. With automation, you can automate your social media posts, respond to comments, and analyze data, all without lifting a finger. That scheduling tool that I use - Yeah, it can monitor ALL of your platforms and give me real time analytics as well as create posts all on one screen.
Your DMs are also a great way to implement automation. Set up automated responses for common questions or inquiries. That way you don't have to waste time repeating yourself.
Chatbot or other AI tools can help respond to comments or even turn triggered comments into leads!
5. Be Authentic
While people love seeing relatable and engaging content, it's important to stay true to your brand. You wouldn't want to share your favorite cocktail or bar selfie if your audience is new, breastfeeding mommas who already feel horrible about their limited social life.
Consistency means being authentic and real with your followers. I invest a lot of time learning about my client's business and making sure I get their brand's messaging right. What problems do their audiences have, how does their brand solve them, how can their brand educate their audience about the solution to their problems?
Relating, understanding, and putting yourself in your audience's shoes helps ensure your posts convey your unique tone of voice, show off your brand personality, and bring value to your audience. Engaging with followers frequently and nurturing genuine relationships online is also something that I take the time to do because building a solid reputation online is imperative for strong brand awareness!
Social media is one of the most effective tools for growing your brand and reaching your target audience, but it takes dedication and consistency to get it right.
Read more about the essence of a brand here.
Lucky for you, I'm here with the knowledge and tools to stay on top of your social media presence without the stress and uncertainty.
Whether it's by scheduling posts, repurposing content, posting when your audience is active, or using automation tools, there are plenty of ways to stay consistent and stay ahead of the game. But, it takes time and an understanding on how every platform works and how to use the tools available in an effective and efficient way.
