How to Wield Social Media to Build Your Brand Empire

Social media is one of the most powerful and effective tools to build a solid brand for your business. And almost all businesses, regardless of their scope, readership or niche, have at least a fan page on the main social media networks, such as Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and LinkedIn. But let’s be honest – some are significantly carrying more social clout than others. At first glance, building a fan page sounds simple, but when it comes to building a brand on social media that’s compelling and attractive, you need to have a plan in place to surprise and engage your readers, as well as create a fruitful relationship with them in the long run.

Here are the keys to that social media empire you’ve always wanted – these are the things that social media’s top brands do regularly to maintain their ruling status.

Always be aware (if not ahead) of the latest events and trends.

Constantly have a beat on what’s happening in your industry. Subscribe to blogs, follow popular and influential industry peers on Twitter and Facebook and create streams to track hashtags. Just remember that trends are exactly what their name implies – they can change literally overnight. If you’re late to the game, it could make your page seem outdated or behind the times.

Make ’em laugh.

Humor helps people connect emotionally with your brand, it helps you appear as more than just a business or corporation that puts up posts on social media, and gives you a personal, human touch. If your industry isn’t one that lends itself to humor, think about other emotions you can bring out in your followers that are more appropriate. Regardless, your business will benefit from finding something that taps into the emotions of your followers, which, in essence, is what branding is all about.

Create contests, promotions and special offers.

Your brand can’t exist in a vacuum, but if you want participation, sometimes you have to make it worth your followers’ while. A fun contest or great offer captures the attention of people who otherwise wouldn’t give your brand a second look, and creates a sense of urgency and activity that other people want in on. Time your contest or promotion right and capitalize on the brand recognition during a key quarter for your business. A well-done promotion can boost your website page views, email database, blog subscriptions and increase the loyalty of your social media fans and followers.

Be social to keep your readers engaged.

Obviously social media is social, but what does that mean for your brand? It means consistently connecting with your followers – engaging them with questions, answers and thought-provoking content. Respond to every comment. People will see that you care, and view your brand as a thought-leader when you speak knowledgably about your industry, products and services without constantly trying to sell them things.

Building your brand on social media all comes down to one thing – connecting with your followers. By giving them something valuable they’ll give you their time, their endorsement and possibly their contact information, so use social media the right way – be social!