Social Media Messaging – Think Conversation

Crafting a good marketing message is still about what it has always been about – speaking to the needs and desires of your prospective customers. In the early days of advertising, you had a limited number of ways to reach your prospect with that message, all falling into two basic categories – print or broadcast. In both cases, the communication was basically one way, so the message had to be direct and to the point. Today, the internet provides marketers with a whole new communication landscape, which is much more nuanced. When marketing through social media channels, it is important that you do not try a one-size-fits-all message. The objective is to start a conversation.

Social media messaging needs to feel less like a sales pitch and more like socializing. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter are meant to be interactive, so your messages should draw readers into an interaction with you. The copy that has worked for email blasts or newspaper advertisements is probably not going to work as well in this environment. The social media message should not jump straight into the pitch, but instead pique interest and inspire response. The conversation lets you get to know your prospect. This interactive marketing ultimately gives you a great advantage, because instead of trying to convince people they want what you are offering, you can offer them what they actually want.

So how do you craft a message that starts a conversation? Here’s a few ideas:

Ask a question

Asking a question is a fantastic way to engage someone. It can be a questions that relates to your products or services. It also be about a timely topic. The key is to make it simple, fun, and light-hearted. A Tire and Auto Service Center might say: “What was your favorite road-trip summer vacation?”

Share a story

Social media give you a chance to show prospects the personal side of your business. Tell an interesting story that invites readers to learn more about you. Talk about things you are doing in the community or brag about your team. Posts could include: an employee work anniversary, hosting a fundraiser, a satisfied customer testimonial, or a significant moment in your company’s history.

Offer information

When people look at social media, they aren’t just interested in personal news and updates. Social media users are also drawn to useful information. Tips, tutorials, and advice are valued and often shared with other members. Video clips are a great way to share how-to information or instruction.

Starting a conversation is a way to develop relationships with prospects so you will know what your most effective offers to them will be. Ready to brainstorm some social media marketing ideas? Contact us today!