How to make your website more social media ready?

Although, social media platforms came into existence for less than a decade, but now it is nearly impossible to imagine a life without them. If the businesses across the globe take a close look of the past decade, then it can be noticed that these channels have and is continuing to change everything. These sites are most popularly used for the purpose of networking, interaction apart from bringing people close to each other.

Yes, you can’t avoid its importance and relevance. Terms such as ‘followers’, ‘tweet’, ‘fan page’, ‘blog’ have become part of our routine vocabulary. And despite its growing popularity, there are many who feel that the social media phenomenon is overhyped to an extent. In the recent times, many questions have been raised on it and how these platforms can be used for taking any business forward.

This article will focus on the meaning of social media, offer some time tested strategies that will increase the social media friendliness of any website, focus on the options presented by important social media platforms. As there are many business owners who are confused about the approach they should adopt for inculcating social media in their websites, this article will also try to find an answer if hiring a consultant is the right thing to do. 

Understanding Social Media

In simple words, social media is a collection of Internet-based application. It uses new web concepts for the promotion of user generated content. Few of the most popular and important social applications are Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, etc.

All these social media platforms are completely unique in their approach. On taking a closer look, you will find that Twitter is considered as a micro blog service and it only allows you to update really crisp and short messages (max 140 characters).  On the other hand, Facebook is considered as a publishing platform which allows creation of a page. It also combines different media options into one like blogs, photos, shopping carts, discussion boards, etc.

And Youtube is more of a service that permits you to produce video content with the possible motive to display your product/services. 

Social media gurus are of the opinion that the uniqueness and power of each of these platforms comes with certain pros and cons.

Tips that will make your site more social media friendly

It is not necessary that if you do not have a presence on the social media platforms, that your customers won’t have either. In fact, there is a possibility that they are already using Facebook, Twitter and sharing you company’s webpage address with their friends, family and colleagues.

Hence, it is essential that if you are eyeing to become part of social media marketing, then you should ensure that presence can be seen in the site as well.

-     Social Sharing

There are many sites that offer embedded code which can be utilized for the creation of social networking icons on your website. It helps the visitors/clients to share what they find appealing about your website with their circuit of friends and family.

-     Publicizing your social media presence

If you are part of a social media platform, it is a good idea to display that affiliation to build your brand image. It is believed that by being part of more social media websites, you inch closer towards successful brand awareness.

-     Should I go for Facebook Fan Page or Group?

Which one is more effective - Facebook Fan Page or Facebook Group Page? This is a common dilemma which comes to haunt you engaged in the brand building process. The answer to this question depends on the plans you have created for your website.

Facebook Fan Page - it is a good option if you are aiming to post information at least once a week.

Pros 

•      Bears resemblance to an individual profile page.
•      Possible to include videos, photos, links or events.
•      Possibility for a customized URL available.
•      Fans to receive regular updates.
•      Other applications like twitter feed can be added.
•      People can post comment on the wall as it is similar in its look to individual page. 

Cons 

•      Managing conversations between fans can be troublesome.
•      Public display of all conversations can lead to negative branding.

Facebook Group Page – Can be easily created and follows a more personalized approach compared to a Fan page.

Pros 

•      More intimate in its approach and group creator can be contacted.
•      Allows, photos, events, videos to be posted.
•      Emails can be sent to all group members. 

Cons 

•      For updates, visitors need to visit the group page.
•      No possibility of adding application to the group page.
•      Automatic posting of related groups to your group page despite asking for it.

Hence, it is suggested that you opt for Facebook Fan Page if you sole aim is to keep your fans updated about your website.

Do you need a social media consultant for your website?

With the growing popularity of the social media platform, one can get easily confused. Research shows that social media channels help in offering better customer service along with the surge in sales. 

So, the next question which arises is do you need a social media consultant 

•      Lack of time for driving a social marketing campaign.
•      Poor understanding of the pros and cons of social apps.
•      Unimpressive interaction skills.
•     Aiming to unveil a large scale social media campaign and results. 

At times, due to lack of self confidence site owners despite having ample knowledge about social media, prefer to bring experts. 

Conclusion

Social media will continue its dominance in the coming years despite undergoing changes with time. People who use it will definitely shine through. It won’t just create awareness about your brand, but at the same time it will forge strong relationship with the clients. Proper social media planning and implementation is the key to success.

Always remember that social media is a very effective tool that can push your website and brand forward.