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Small business owners know that the only constant in life is change. Technology has evolved over time, changing the way we do business and even what it means to be an entrepreneur. When it comes to selling products or services, it’s hard to turn a blind eye to the benefits of online platforms like social media. The algorithms and formulas of Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook can be intimidating for beginners at first. harness the power of your digital presence can lead to long-term success.
Krystal Vilkaitis, owner of a social media strategy company Crystal Mediaknows how challenging it can be to create unique and personal content for social media, which is why she always reassures clients with a simple principle – be yourself.
“We love relevant content. It’s what makes us look at people, makes us stop scrolling when it’s someone like us or someone we aspire to be,” Krystal said, adding that business owners just starting out on social media, You don’t have to worry about filters, scripts, or professionally edited and created content.
“We don’t want perfect. The ideal is irrelevant. So when you share your stories and behind the scenes and what goes into running a store and just getting to know the store owner, you start to feel like he’s my friend. I want to support them. And when you are yourself, the right people will contact you.”
Selling products through social media is becoming more of a priority for businesses and marketers, and small business owners can take advantage of this trend regardless of the size of their business or the products they offer.
“I really recommend that retailers sell through social media. This is one of the best ways,” said Krystal, emphasizing that you want your business to appear where your target demographic spends most of their time and offer the shopping experiences they enjoy.
While social media advertising campaigns are effective, they can be costly. So one of Crystal’s top recommendations is to sell live (live streaming of the products you’re selling) because it’s convenient for both the business owner and the consumer. However, she also acknowledges that some business owners may be reluctant to try new and unfamiliar strategies.
“There is a lot of resistance when it comes to social media and self-expression. But if we can get through it, put up with the discomfort, still show up and be consistent, you’ll start to become a local celebrity. The people at the bank will get to know you and you will find those core customer groups that just love you and become loyal customers who will also share your content, tell their friends about you and really connect again in such a meaningful way.”
Often, running a social media campaign takes more time than the business owner, which becomes great opportunity to delegate, whether it be 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 achieving their goals and generating revenue.
“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 do not want to do this. I’m so busy.” But when we don’t know what we don’t know, it’s very difficult to manage this company or the person who will help you with your social networks.
“I really want retailers to be able to know enough. Some people like it. They love marketing so they want to know everything. doing the right thing and that it actually supports their business goals.”
More strategic advice from Crystal Vilkaitis in this week’s edition Behind the review include:
- Use SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timed) Goals in your social media planning as well as general business planning.
- Do your research when hiring a social media strategy company. Ask for links and examples of their work. Krystal had a client whose previous social media manager posted items online that weren’t in her inventory, creating confusion.
- AI and ChatGPT will help you reply to comments. Take advantage of AI technology to help you prepare potential responses to comments, then customize them and add your own personality. This can help you stay focused and efficient while still being “you” in your responses.
Listen to the episode below to hear directly from Krystal and Emily, and subscribe to Behind the review to learn more from new business owners and reviewers every Thursday.
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