As it relates to building relationships on social media, I’ve noticed that each platform is totally different. Facebook (FB) audiences prefer to stay within Facebook and you must have a compelling reason to get them to navigate away from Facebook. They’re an emotional audience and respond well to storytelling (keep it brief), motivational quotes, memes and interesting videos that are uploaded directly to Facebook versus a link. Again, they rarely leave Facebook! The good thing about Facebook is you can go away for a while and your relationship will stay intact just as you left it. Really it’s a good idea to spend time away from FB.
Google plus, as well as Linkedin and twitter, are a tough platform to build relationship on because the audience there need time and attention. Well, all social media audiences need time and attention but G+, Linkedin and twitter audiences respond better when you’re around more often. My suggestion is to join groups that are important to your business and work your networking butt off like never before. Be visible in the groups so people can get to know you and your brand. Whatever you do, don’t join with the thought of promoting your business. You will get shut down quick. Trust me I know. I’ve seen it happen on several occasions. Since twitter doesn’t have groups, I would suggest you participate in chats that are relevant to your brand. I picked up several followers by participating in chats on twitter.
Lastly, Pinterest and Instagram (needs no explaining) are in a class all alone. Their name says it all. With Pinterest, you want to pin industry related pins that others find useful and intriguing. Imagery is the key. Organization is a must! Go further and theme your boards by color and place at least five pins of your business at the top of each Pinterest board. This makes your boards appetizing and easy on the eyes. Same with Instagram, you want to do a bit of branding so your audience gets familiar with you but always practice organization.
In conclusion, each social media platforms are different and you want to spend time cultivating your relationship but approach each of the platforms differently. Hangout in groups to get a feel of the audience and build relationships from there. Be genuine. Trust me your audience can sniff out fake a mile away. Seeing that social media accounts for 31 percent of referral traffic to a website, you definitely want to make friends on them. What’s your strategy in building relationships on social media? Post in the comments your best advice. Thanks!