Simple Guidelines for Effectively Engaging on Your Social Channels
I’ve said on numerous occasions that every fashion brand should focus more on building their email list rather than their social media following for the simple fact that you have more ownership of data from your list of subscribers than your social followers.
However, your rented social media space can definitely be leveraged to build your email list, boost sales, and broaden your brand awareness. So let’s talk about a few ways to properly utilize your social media channels. Please note these aren’t concrete rules you have to follow; they’re guidelines to get you on the right track.
Posts and Captions
Focus on more educating your followers about your brand instead of selling to them. Try answering these questions:
Why should they care about your brand?
What details (materials, manufacturing, customer service, etc.) are important to your audience?
How does your brand easily fit into your audience’s lifestyle?
Use a brand voice/tone that relatable to your target audience. Practice envisioning your ideal customer and speaking directly to them.
Whenever possible, end your captions with a call-to-action. “Comment below”, “Link in bio”, and “Subscribe” are simple ways for your audience to engage with your posted content.
Spell-check your captions (especially on platforms that don’t allow you to edit posts).
Check your insights to see when your followers are most active to get the most eyes on your posts.
Instagram and Facebook Stories
Tell a complete story. For example, if you’re unboxing new arrivals, post the unopened boxes, someone on your tam highlighting specific pieces, and information on when and where your audience can purchase the products.
Utilize the question, poll, and quiz features in stories to get feedback from your audience.
Try using Instagram’s Close Friends feature to share exclusive content with your most active followers.
Comments and DMs
Respond to comments and direct messages within 24 hours to make sure your followers feel taken care of.
Set aside thirty to forty-five minutes every other day to engage with your audience on your engager channel (this includes liking and commenting on other account posts, not just your own). Make sure to set a timer so you don’t get sucked into mindlessly scrolling.
Consider engaging right before or after you publish new content to encourage followers to check out your profile.
When commenting on posts, be sure to read the entire caption beforehand and read a few comments to avoid confusion, miscommunication, or misunderstandings.
Try using relevant emojis or gifs to catch the attention of your followers.
Welcome new followers with a quick DM. Include something that relates to their account, a suggested item that you think they’d love, and a link to subscribe to your email for an exclusive offer.
Comment Below
Don’t see a point listed that you practice regularly? Share it below! (See, I’m encouraging my audience to engage. It’s that simple!)
