Small business owners know that the only constant in life is change. Technology has evolved with the times, changing business practices and even what it means to be an australiabusinessblog.com. When it comes to selling products or services, it’s hard to turn a blind eye to the benefits of online platforms like social media. While beginners may be intimidated at first by the algorithms and formulas of Instagram, TikTok or Facebook, harness the power of your digital presence can lead to long-term success.

Crystal Vilkaitis, owner of social media strategy firm Crystal mediaknow how daunting it can be to create unique and personal content for social media. That’s why she always reassures clients with a simple principle: be yourself.

“We like relatable content. That’s what makes us look at people, makes us stop scrolling, is when it’s someone like us or someone we want to be,” Crystal said, adding that entrepreneurs who just getting started on social media don’t worry about filters, scripts or content that has been expertly edited and produced.

“We don’t want perfect. Perfect is unrecognizable. So when you share your stories and behind the scenes and what’s involved in running the store and just getting to know the store owner, you start to feel like this is my friend . I want to support them. And if you are your authentic self, the right people will reach out to you.”

Selling products through social media channels is a growing priority for businesses and marketers, and small business owners can benefit from that trend regardless of the size of their business or products offered.

“I really recommend retailers sell through social media. It’s one of the best ways,” Crystal said, emphasizing that you want your business to appear where your target audience spends most of their time and to have a shopping experience they enjoy.

While social media advertising campaigns are effective, they can be costly. That’s why live selling (live streaming of the products you have for sale) is one of Crystal’s top recommendations because it’s easy for both the business owner and the consumer. However, she also recognizes that some entrepreneurs can be reluctant to try new and unfamiliar strategies.

“There’s a lot of resistance when it comes to social media and putting ourselves out there. But if we can get through that, get comfortable with the awkward, show up anyway and be consistent, you start to become that local celebrity. The people at the bank recognize you, and you find those primary customer groups that just love you and will become lifelong customers – who will also share your content, talk about you to their friends, and really reconnect in that meaningful way.

Often, running a social media campaign takes more time than an australiabusinessblog.com has, which the perfect opportunity to delegate, whether with a professional like Crystal, a business partner or an employee. No matter who manages the accounts, business owners always need to know how it works, what makes a campaign successful, and whether the campaigns are achieving goals and generating revenue.

“Education is very important for retailers and small businesses, especially when it comes to marketing and social media. Retailers say, ‘Please do my social media. I don’t want to do it. I’m so busy.’ But if we don’t know what we don’t know, it’s very difficult to manage that company or person who is going to help you with your social media.

“I really want retailers to have the opportunity to know enough. Some like it. They like marketing, so they want to know everything. But most of them are busy entrepreneurs, so they need to know enough to make sure they’ doing the right thing and that it actually supports their business goals.”

More strategic tips from Crystal Vilkaitis in this week Behind the review Involving:

• Use SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timed). both in your social media planning and overall business planning.
• Do your research when hiring a social media strategy company. Ask for references and samples of their work. Crystal had a client whose previous social media manager posted items online that were not in her inventory, causing confusion.
• AI and ChatGPT can help you respond to comments. Take advantage of AI technology to help you draft possible responses to comments, then customize them and add your personality. This can help you stay focused and efficient while still being “you” in your answers.

Listen to the episode below to hear directly from Crystal and Emily, and subscribe Behind the review for more information from new entrepreneurs and reviewers every Thursday.

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