It's the time of year when we reflect on our mistakes - so that we don't blunder into them again in 2012. We've been thinking a lot about what has worked this year, and what hasn't, and how you can make sure to avoid those horrid mistakes before they creep up on you. That's why today, we're sharing our top 5 list of social media mistakes, and how you can prevent them from happening.
#1: Ignoring Third Party Apps
Social media is complex and multifaceted - for every platform you're on, there's a thousand other apps you could use to improve your performance there. Just look at the apps available for Twitter and Facebook these days! Your number 1 mistake in 2012, will be to ignore these third party apps. They should be part of your social strategy, and if they're not, you better investigate why.
#2: Publishing Too Much
Many social media sites say it's good to publish fresh content often, which is true - except when it forces you to compromise on your level of engagement. It's a common mistake to go about your strategy without remembering that interaction is more important than content. If you have tons of great content, but very little communication to show for it - cut down on the content, and focus on your fans.
#3: Shying Away From Your Goals
Social media is as much about sales as it is about interaction. There's no point shying away from the fact that you're a business, and you exist to make money. Focusing too little on your sales content or marketing pitches can cost you in the long run. None of us want to be labeled spammers, so we tend to be ashamed of selling. Don't be! Just find new and creative ways to do it.
#4: Long and Tedious Content
Social media users are getting quicker, busier and are less engaged than they used to be 3 years ago. They zip through content, consuming enormous amounts of it each day. Whatever you do, don't waste time or money focusing on long, tedious content. It won't be shared! Stick to short articles, short, powerful sales letters and quick videos - and focus on making your pitches dynamic and easy to consume.
#5: Running Your 2011 Facebook Strategy
Facebook in 2011 will not be the same as Facebook in 2012. They are rapidly adding more features, and eliminating old ones. You'll want to concentrate on this social platform even more in the new year. Facebook is primed to reach 1 billion users soon, and if you can perfect your 2012 marketing campaign, it will mean a big head start for your business. Don't get stuck using old tricks!
Are you guilty of any one of these 5 common social media mistakes? They're easy to overlook, and get wrong again and again. Don't be fooled! Simply tweaking each of these strategies, to come up with something more effective will boost your bottom line in the new year. It's time to perfect those evolving marketing plans.
