Social media is often the go-to when it comes to online visibility. As a business owner, the platforms offer connection with folks all over the world. We get a place to showcase expertise and attract clients. I’m not even going to deny its power and potential. So many of my clients found me via Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin over the years.
But lately…. the reach we once enjoyed is playing hard to get.
The platforms are hungrier than ever and demands of constant posting and the pressure to constantly perform and engage has given many of us social media fatigue.
If you feel you’ve been jumping through hoops at the drop of an algorithm update and slogging away just to feel like you’re STILL not doing enough, please read on.
The Thrill of the Hoops
From viral dance challenges to infinite scrolling through valuable, life-changing content, social is thrilling to consume…. and exhausting.
And as a creator of content, there’s a sense of validation that comes with follower growth, likes, hearts, and ‘views’, not to mention the dopamine hit that comes with it. But I’ve met so many self-employed people who’ve lost their social mojo. They’re just over it! It’s too much.
This pressure to perform, share, and serve their audience ALL THE TIME!!!! How could it not wear you out?
Boundaries
Social media didn’t exist when I was young. I didn’t learn to limit my intake as I did with TV and later booze. When I became a business owner who wanted to reach an audience and get clients, I learned a bit too late about the importance of boundaries.
I have a healthier relationship with social media these days. I don’t depend on organic posting to get visibility and clients as I once did. It’s just too demanding for a one-person business that has a full life outside of work.
I’m on something of a digital detox at the moment. I’ve not been posting daily on my socials. Once a week mostly and for lead generation, I’m relying on completely different strategies. I use social media in a different way. But that’s a story for another day.
What are the alternatives for visibility I hear you ask?
Alternatives for business owners
- Partnerships and Collaborations: Partnering with other businesses or organizations is a cost-effective way to increase visibility. Joint events, cross-promotions, or co-hosted activities can help expand your reach within the community (this one is my favorite)
- Community Engagement: Attend local events, fairs, or community gatherings to network with potential clients and collaborators.
- Local and International Media: Connect with print publications, radio stations, or community magazines for coverage. Offer to share your expertise in your industry or provide a unique angle that would be of interest to their audience.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Optimize your website for search engines to improve your online visibility organically. Focus on relevant keywords related to your business, create quality content, and ensure your website is user-friendly.
- Email Marketing: Build and maintain an email list to directly reach your audience. Regularly send out newsletters with valuable content, promotions, or updates about your business.
- Referral Programs: Encourage satisfied customers to refer your business to their friends and family. Implement a referral program with incentives, such as discounts or exclusive offers, to motivate existing customers to spread the word.
- Networking Events: Attend industry-specific networking events or business meetups. Building relationships with other professionals can lead to referrals and collaborative opportunities.
- Guerrilla Marketing: Employ creative and unconventional tactics to grab attention. This could include street art, flash mobs, or other low-cost, high-impact strategies that resonate with your target audience.
- Host Workshops or Classes: Share your expertise by hosting workshops or classes related to your industry. This not only positions you as an authority but also provides an opportunity for in-person engagement.
- Customer Testimonials and Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave public reviews and testimonials (Linkedin, Google, Facebook). Positive word-of-mouth is a powerful, cost-effective way to build credibility and attract new customers.
Now before you go off to implement multiple strategies to get visible, remember your content has 3 jobs to do. Visibility is just the first piece of the puzzle. If you’re looking to get more clients online and stop jumping through social media hoops grab a call with me. We’ll take a look at the big picture of your marketing and make a plan to move forward.