5 Ways to Grow Your Business On Social Media During COVID-19

Coronavirus has created a new normal. But even though we’re required to physically distance ourselves from one another, it does not mean we should do so through our social media channels too.

It’s important, of course, to make sure we’re being sensitive to the current situation but it’s also important for businesses to show up online in order to engage with their current customers and potentially bring in new ones.

Social media has been an important way to connect to loved ones and the outside world in general during this crisis. As a result, there’s been a significant increase in the numbers of social media users and online web traffic.

Now is not the time to pull back and go silent.  People are looking for a sense of normalcy, something to look at other than the news. And honestly, this is a great time to get eyes on your content. 

If you’re looking for some ways to connect with your audience right during the COVID-19 crisis to start or improve your social media marketing skills we’ve got your back!

Here are a few tips to get you started:

Post important updates about business hours and modified services

First off, it’s very important that your customers know what is going on in relation to your business. If you are only open for limited reduced hours, make sure they know what hours they’re able to shop with you.

If you’re switching to drop-off or pick-up services, make sure to clarify the new ways that clients will interact with your company.

Prioritize conversation over clicks

Now is not the time to focus on selling. Now is the time to focus on listening and creating real connections with people.  No one wants to be sold to, not under normal circumstances, and definitely not now. 

It’s important to start real conversations with your followers on different social media platforms. Check in with them. Ask about their experience right now.  We’re all going through something, some people have it worse than others, but everyone appreciates empathy. Being a part of conversations and engaging with customers online are very important tasks to prioritize.

Offer online deals

If your business already has an e-commerce component, remind customers that they can still shop for their favorite items on your website. Another way to help promote your business is by offering coupons or discounts to help encourage online shopping.

If you operate a service-based business like a restaurant or a salon, you may want to consider offering online sales of gift certificates. Encourage your customers to buy a certificate now, so they can treat themselves and redeem it when the virus outbreak has slowed and their self-quarantine period is over. This can help maintain sales for you while giving your customers something fun and exciting to look forward to.

Personalize conversations

Social media is an intimate way to connect with your customers. It’s where your followers also interact with their friends and family members. And now, people expect their discussions with brands to be just as comfortable as a message to a friend. 

When talking to customers:

• Make sure to use their names when possible
• Sign off on comments with your name, or company name
• Be friendly – let your customers know that you’re there for them.

After the conversation, make sure you let your customer know you’re not going anywhere.

The overall goal is to leave them feeling happy they talked with you.

Show your human side

Don’t reserve your personality for one-on-one interactions only. Social media is a great place to share your personal voice, style, and tone. There are several ways to show personality through social media.

Here are a few examples:

• Introduce people to your staff with photos, bios, names, and stories.
• Take part in trends and discussions that your customers are interested in.
• Show your human side through video. With streaming features like Facebook Live and Instagram Live, you can even deliver an unfiltered view of your company. 
• Try using video for Q&A sessions with team members, behind-the-scenes snapshots, and more.

These are just a few ways to maintain a strong and consistent social media presence during these crazy and difficult times. I hope this information comes in handy and can help you through this unpredictable time. 

Please comment if you have any questions about the topics above or want to share your experiences with implementing these social media marketing strategies!