To get the most out of your social media efforts, you must learn to master the art of the social media conversation.
Use the Right Platform
If you’re using social media for your business, make sure you’re on the right social media platform. If your current and potential customers, vendors, and employees aren’t using the same platform as you, then they’re not getting all your information.
Research where your audience is and use those platforms to reach your targets.
Be Personable
Your brand should have a voice that is consistent across all your social media, your website, and even your printed collateral. Coming across as friendly will encourage conversations on social media.
Content is King
Great, thought-provoking content will get conversations started. Ask open-ended questions in your posts. These conversation prompts encourage your readers to respond.
You can also post polls and surveys to get your readers to engage with you.
Know Not Everyone Responds
Business-focused audiences can be challenging to engage on social media. They often lurk rather than participate. It’s key to have a posting schedule and adhere to it.
If someone does post a question, respond and ask them a follow-up question to keep the conversation going. If they don’t respond, thank them for their time.
The World is Watching
When you’re having a conversation on social media, remember the whole world is watching and taking note. Always be pleasant. Don’t ever be rude, even when your reader is criticizing you and maybe even being rude themselves. Show that your brand is listening.