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Small business owners know that the only constant in life is change. Technology has evolved over time, changing business practices and even the meaning of entrepreneurship. When it comes to selling any product or service, it is hard to ignore the benefits of online platforms like social media. While beginners may be initially intimidated by the algorithms and formulas of Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, they learn Harness the power of your digital presence can lead to long-term success.
Crystal Vilkaitis, owner of a social media strategy company crystal mediaShe knows how daunting it can be to create unique and personal social media content, which is why she always reassures her clients with one simple principle: be yourself.
“We love understandable content. It’s what makes us watch people, makes us stop scrolling when it’s about someone like us or someone we want to be,” Crystal said, adding that business owners who are currently who are just getting started with social media don’t need to worry about filters, scripts or content that is expertly edited and produced.
“We don’t want to be perfect. Perfect cannot be understood. So as you tell your stories and look behind the scenes and learn what it takes to run the store and just get to know the store owner, you start to feel that.” is my friend. I want to support them. And when you’re authentic, the right people will connect with you.”
Selling products through social media is a growing priority for businesses and marketers, and small business owners can capitalize on this trend, regardless of the size of their business or the products they offer.
“I really recommend retailers to sell through social media. It’s one of the best ways,” Crystal said, emphasizing that you want your business to be visible where your target audience spends most of their time and provide them with a shopping experience they love.
Social media advertising campaigns, while effective, can be costly. Therefore, one of Crystal’s top recommendations is live sales (live streaming of the products for sale) as it is easy for both the business owner and the consumer. However, she is also aware that some business owners may be reluctant to try new and unfamiliar strategies.
“There’s a lot of resistance when it comes to social media and getting yourself out there. But if we pull through, embrace the uncomfortable, still show up and be consistent, that’s when you become a local celebrity. The folks at Die Bank recognize you, and you find the primary customer groups who just love you and become lifelong customers — who also share your content, talk about you with their friends, and reconnect in really meaningful ways.”
often, Implementation of a social media campaign takes more time than a business owner has, which entails perfect opportunity to delegate, be it to a professional like Crystal, a business partner or an employee. Regardless of who manages the accounts, business owners should always be aware of how it works, what makes a campaign successful, and whether the campaigns are meeting their goals and increasing sales.
“Education is really important for retailers and small businesses, especially when it comes to marketing and social media. Retailers say, ‘Please do my social media. I don’t want to do that. I’m so busy.’ But if we don’t know what we don’t know, it’s really difficult to direct the company or the person who helps you with your social media.
“I really want retailers to be empowered to know enough. Some love it. They love marketing so they want to know everything. But most of them are busy business owners, so they need to know enough to make sure we’re doing the right thing and that it actually supports their business goals.”
More strategic tips from Crystal Vilkaitis this week behind the review contain:
- Use SMART goals (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and timed). in your social media planning as well as overall business planning.
- Do your research when hiring a social media strategy company. Ask for references and examples of their work. Crystal had a client whose previous social media manager posted items that weren’t in their inventory, which caused confusion.
- AI and ChatGPT can help you reply to comments. Use AI technology to design potential replies to comments, then customize them and add your personality. This can help you stay focused, efficient, and still be “you” in your answers.
To hear directly from Crystal and Emily, listen to the episode below and subscribe behind the review Receive more information from new business owners and reviewers every Thursday.
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