So, you heard us say that you need to post multiple times in multiple networks and you thought to yourself that you might as well never start social media, because you know you can’t maintain that schedule. Guess again! There are a host of free and cost based services that can help you automate your posting schedule so that you can do what you do best, run your business. Our Social Media Bootcamp session for October will be on this topic. Check our facebook page later this week for more information.
Choosing Software
Not all automation software is equal. We recommend Hoot Suite, but there are others. Here are a few things to look for.
Coverage: how many networks can you post to from this service. Most cover at least Facebook and Twitter.
Ease of use: Make sure to test the posting capabilities before signing on for a contract. Read reviews and make a few notes about how each of them works.
Cost: Many of the current offerings (including Hoot Suite for up to 5 networks) have limited free versions. Most of the “pro” services are available for a few bucks (up to $50, Hoot Suite is $5)
Mascot: Hoot Suite has this cool owl. Did we mention we like Hoot Suite?
Writing Content
For Facebook you should be posting at least three times a day, and creating that type of content on the fly can be stressful. Think about what you want to say and break it into bite sized chunks, then write three short posts (80 characters or less get read more statistically speaking) for each day of a week and copy and paste them into your automation software. Remember to keep it conversational. We recommend a theme for each week, then a smaller theme-within a theme for each day’s posts. Keep watching our Facebook page and blog for more info.
Choose Times
It is easiest to choose three times a day and schedule three posts for each day at the same times. Statistically speaking posts before noon are more likely to be read, liked and shared. The ultimate time to post to facebook? Some claim 2:40 pm. We like 8 am, 11:40am and 2:40 pm. Once you have your times, stick with it at least a week, then change and run another week. Compare the two to see which gets better results.
Add Bling
Posts with photos are over 50% more likely to get noticed. Video is only slightly less viewed, and text is the lowest. Hoot Suite allows you to add photos and a variety of links to get your audience more engaged in your campaign. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Another great way to achieve this is to ask a question, or request an action such as asking fans to pose for a pic and share it on your page.
Engage Responders
Social media can never be totally automated. The first word in social media is, of course, social! Responding to likes, shares, mentions, retweets, comments and posts is essential. Say thanks, message your responders, give them prizes and generally engage them in conversation. You can respond on your own profile by commenting on likes, comments, etc, or on the fan’s page if it is open. Like them back using your fan page ID, or leave a comment on their page.
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Thanks
Great information