Have you made your game plan for utilizing social media to its full advantage at Expo West this year? Here are 10 tips for a successful social marketing effort that will have people buzzing about your brand.
1. Plan Ahead.
You write a business plan and a marketing plan – so why not a social media plan? You should have a defined plan which clearly outlines:
- Overall strategy and goals;
- Social channels you’ll be active on;
- Brand personality and voice;
- The Rules – where the lines are for what is acceptable (and not acceptable!) for posting;
- The Roles – who will be assigned which tasks – for example, who will create content, post, response and answer questions? Make sure they are not just assigned, but discussed and agreed upon now, before the show.
2. Strategy is Key.
Creating a plan puts one foot in the door, and the execution gets you all the way through. Make sure to have a thought out social media strategy for the weeks leading up to the show. You want to engage your audience as soon as possible to create buzz!
3. Hashtags
Use relevant (and already established!) hashtags that relate to your brand and products. Don’t forget to tag your posts with #expowest and @NatProdExpo to connect with those at the show. When visiting other booths, make sure to share your interactions with a tag to their brand.
4. Engage…authentically.
You’ll probably notice that your following, likes and comments will start to increase. Make sure you follow back, comment and like what people are posting on your social media promptly. Human engagement shows you’re interested, and that you’re paying attention.
5. Engage IRL (in real life).
Think about how fans will interact with your brand; give them good spots for selfies; take pictures with them or offer to take their picture at your booth with their product. Get creative and keep it interesting to entice those who follow you to share!
6. Snap(chat) Away!
Images keep your feed interesting, engaging, and keep people coming back for more. Make them fun and simple.
7. Videos are the future. Your future
Videos capture more than any image could. Make an announcement, promote your products, share the details of your booth. People like the “insider information”, and sharing via video is their way into your world.
8. The “Wow” Factor
Surprise your audience with the unexpected. Share sneak peeks leading up to the show, and share the final presentation once you arrive. People will want to stop by your booth to get the insider scoop!
9. Don’t Go Overboard
Keep your posts relevant to the show and its attendees. Don’t clog your feed with irrelevancies; keep posts consistent and valuable so you don’t lose fans.
10. Follow up.
Immediately when you get back from the show, following up with leads should be job one. People who may have stopped by your booth but didn’t have a chance to meet you will most likely follow you if interested. Keep their interest piqued by following up with them and continue your great posting.
If we can help your company build a strong social media plan like we’ve done for clients like Michel Design Works, Connecticut Stone, and Northeast Plastic Surgery Center, give a call or shoot us an email!
