Social media for startups

@RachelWareingSocial Media Editor, IPA

1. Choose your business goals.

• What does my business need?

• Who am I trying to reach?

• What are they talking about and where are they talking?

2. Listen.2. Start listening.

• What are people saying about your business, your competitors, your industry sector?

• Use Google Alerts or Mention to monitor keywords.

• Use Hootsuite or Tweetdeck to manage your presence online & monitor keyword mentions.

3. Tailor your strategy to your goals.

• Once you've defined your goals & researched online conversations, choose your tactics.

• Your time is precious - be strategic.

• A neglected profile can do more harm than good.

Case study 1: Well Seasoned

• Uses Twitter to add value to followers: o Shares interesting stories

about local, seasonal food.o Uses network of producers

and customers for good

• In return, followers help to spread the word about new product launches.

Case study 2: Daily Grommet

http://youtube.com/v/fbdECB9A6ok

• Each Grommet is launched with a YouTube video which tells the story of the product and its inventor.

• Pinterest used for customer acquisition & research.

Case study 3:Cambridge Satchel Company

• Built relationships with influential bloggers.

• First people they approach when launching a new line or seeking reaction to new ideas.

• Bloggers are willing to help because they have a passion for the brand.

• But important to give something back.

1. Use your business goals to shape your social media strategy.

2. Listen – respond – act.

3. Do great work.

Photo credits

Máté MakarészThana ThaweeskulchaiWell Seasoned Daily Grommet Cambridge Satchel CompanyJohn Milton