The social world is LOUD!  It is noisy with so many different outlets and opinions and thoughts on why you have to add to your arsenal right now...don't wait, jump on the newest trend, get in with the newest social outlet.

You must do your homework and explore all, but don't let FOMO push you away from the traditional outlets that you should focus on day after day.

Again, when a new outlet becomes popular, look into it.  But, will your business fail if you aren't trending on the new outlet?
No.

So, where do you focus your time and energy when starting to build your social, digital plan?
1 - Facebook.  The Grandaddy of em all.  It is still the most popular, still the beast and still one that you as a business MUST be engaged with.  Yes, the younger generation claims they do not use Facebook, and they may not, we will get to them later, but most decision makers and most of the people in your target audience (regardless of you industry and demographics you are reaching) will be on Facebook.
A business page is a MUST on Facebook.

2 - Instagram.  Popular, pictures and video, owned by Facebook so it knows how to work (and make money).  It is here and not going anywhere.  It is an outlet you should be involved with, especially if you produce products, have a brick and mortar store, do anything visual, you must be on Instagram.  It also helps you reach that younger audience that isn't on Facebook.  Most people are on both, but Facebook is an older demographic, while Instagram is younger.

3 - LinkedIN.  Business Facebook.  Can get salesy, but is very powerful.  It is one you must be on if you are sharing links or pictures or even video. It is where a lot of decision makers are on and frankly, a huge outlet that really hasn't reached its potential.  Now, not as popular as the 2 above and sometimes people don't check as frequently, but it is very powerful.

4 - TikTok - every professional marketing will tell you your business MUST be on TikTok.  I don't agree.  I think it can be powerful, and if you are very creative, on-site with your marketing, have consistent products to show off, or again - can be very creative....then TikTok is great.  If you are just showing off boring pictures and videos - and I don't mean that negatively - then stay away from TikTok.  If you can dance or want to get in front of the camera to bring attention to your brand, it can be powerful.  Some industries can use it well, some can't.  It is an outlet that is gaining steam (and controversy), but something to keep an eye on.

5 - Twitter.  Now, I use Twitter for news and sports.  It is a great place for that.  Am I looking there for brands? No.  With the new ownership it might shift, but the ads are still eh, and the platform still has issues.  It is very cool for news and sports, but if you are not in that industry, Twitter is not a must.  If you are there, and active, and share your content, it can be powerful, but not a must.


Each outlet has its own flaws.  Each one is changing and updating and adapting, and this list may be different in 6 months, but right now, it is not crucial for you to be on 4000 different outlets.
Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin.  Start there.  If you do video, then add YouTube.  Those are where you start, everything else is gravy.

Don't get overwhelmed with the noise.  Focus on your, your brand and where you can be most impactful. 

​Stuck and need social help?  Always here to help...send me an email and let's chat!
C Emsweller

In late February, LinkedIN announced a few updates that will not only help businesses do more with their newsletter platform, but also giving individuals a chance to spruce up their profile.