Addressing Common Social Media Marketing Pitfalls and Ways to Avoid Them

Social media marketing is the “next big thing,” in the stratosphere of online activities and offers great marketing opportunities for businesses of all sizes. Given the current scenario, about 92% of marketers are trying to capitalize on the tremendous potential of social media marketing (SMM). In fact, SMM has become one of the most inexpensive and powerful marketing tool, which marketers must keep in their arsenal. From increased brand recognition and loyalty to higher conversion rates, SMM can help you grow your business exponentially.

Introducing SMM to your marketing strategy can turn out to be a win-win situation for you. However, getting your social media strategies wrong can drive potential customers away just as easily. Have a quick look at some of the most common social media marketing mistakes, which businesses should avoid.

• Focus on Quantity Instead of Quality: There is no point having thousands of followers (on social media channels) who have nothing to do with your business. Only targeted traffic or followers should be traced.
• Failing to Post Engaging Content Regularly: To draw the attention of the prospects, it is very essential to post engaging and relevant information as status updates regularly.
• Not Tracking Analytics: Failure to keep a close eye on your social media analytics such as Facebook Insights, LinkedIn Page Statistics etc. will not convert followers to paid customers.
• Focusing on Too Many Channels: While getting started with your SMM, make sure not to stretch too thin and focus on a couple of networks which is being used by majority of users.
• Spamming: Solely trying to sell your products by using too many promotional updates can spam your audience and stop them from viewing your page.
• Not Being Consistent: Leaving your social media account dormant for several days and weeks is the worst thing you do as a marketer. Make sure you post regularly (at least twice or thrice a week).
• Not Having a Proper Strategy: Without a strong strategy in place, all your social media marketing efforts would remain disjointed and without focus.

Ways to Avoid the Pitfalls of Social Media Marketing

• Engage in Subtle Brand Building: Instead of being overly promotional, ensure subtle brand building, which in turn will enhance the perception and value of your brand.
• Responding to Both Positive and Negative Comments: Address both positive, as well as negative comments. Never try to avoid them, who knows you may turn the odds in your favor.
• Engage With Though Leaders: Follow the thought leaders in your field as much as possible. Comment on their blog posts, to be seen on the top of latest trends and news updates.
• Ensure Consistency: Executing your social media strategies consistently is the key to the success of your SMM initiative.
• Proofreading the Posts: As a part of effective social media marketing strategy, proofreading everything prior to posting on your network,is essential.

Engaging in Social Media Marketing can be a great way for businesses to connect with their target market. However, like any other marketing strategy, social media efforts should be frequently monitored and updated for maximum result.