5 Social Media Tips for the Trades

Show of hands: who set up their social media, posted a couple of times and then never returned?

Don’t worry – we get it. You’re trying to run your business. And you may be thinking: “What do I even talk about?” It’s easy to look to big brands with their flashy videos and professional photos and get discouraged. But here’s the thing: you don’t those to be successful on social media. You do what no one else does – you get down and dirty to build the things that people need. The trades can flourish on social media. You just need to know where to start.

1. Encourage Reviews

Before they ever pick up the phone, your customers will look you up online. And what they see is important – 88% of consumers say they trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations, according to a BrightLocal survey. Build an online reputation by making it as easy as possible for your customers to leave reviews by setting up an email campaign that sends customers a link to leave a review on Facebook or Google+. And make sure to thank reviewers for their positive reviews. Even negative reviews can be a selling point – respond courteously and offer to take the conversation online. Potential customers will see that you’re responsive and willing to make things right.

2. Share Tips & Tricks

You know your industry. Your customers don’t. Are there simple steps they can take at home to avoid costly repairs? Outside-the-box cleaning tips? Maintenance pointers? Simple tips go a long way on social media – they’re interesting they’re valuable, and they’re easy to digest. You can use a free photo editing service like Canva or PicMonkey to create graphics that give your tips an extra pop. Tips don’t have to be Earth-shattering: they just have to be something useful.

3. Provide Value

The true goal of any social media strategy is to provide value for your customers. Yes, the more superficial goals are to get more Likes, get people talking about your business and get them to pick up the phone. But what prompts them to take action? Content that they want to see. You can create the most stunningly beautiful social media post the world has ever seen, but if that’s not what your audience cares about then it’s useless. Think about the questions that your customers ask you all the time. Try to answer them with your content. And sprinkle in some humor – never discount the power of a funny cat picture on Facebook.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Sell

Social media dips into the “fluffy” side of digital marketing. And it’s no secret that bombarding people with advertisements drives them away. However, that doesn’t mean that you can never use your social platforms to advertise yourself. Try and stick to an 80/20 rule – 80% of your content should entertain, educate or provide value and 20% should promote your brand. Frame your promotional posts around what your customers would be interested in. Special offers and discounts draw in potential customers. Do you have a service that your customers may not know about? 

5. Get Someone Else to Do it For You

Ok, ok, This is the 20% of the content that’s promotional. But here’s the kicker: it doesn’t have to be us. We want you to choose us, but the point is we’re just passing along friendly advice: don’t waste your time on social if you don’t have the time. An online marketing company steps into your corner and seamlessly handles all of your social media, so you can focus on what matters most. And, we do know a pretty good marketing agency, if you’re interested.

Want more tips? Check out our Marketing for the Trades BizzyWebinar.

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Online Marketing Got You Burned Out? 

We don’t blame you. Why not shift your focus back to your business, and let someone else do all the (metaphorical) heavy lifting? We craft emails, blogs and social media that fits your brand and your voice, so you can keep the content flowing. And if your website is looking a little dated – we can help with that too.