Behind the Scenes of Social Media Management

Behind the Scenes of Social Media Management

Mind Your Own Business began in 2011 as a virtual assistant company.  Social media for business was in its infancy and only a few clients requested social media management for Facebook and Twitter.

In July of 2018, Emily Leye joined the MYOB team as Social Media Manager and brought her knowledge, experience and expertise for digital marketing. At this time, MYOB began to offer social media management as a stand-alone service. Our primary offerings to our clients were for Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter.

Remember 2018? Facebook was King, Instagram was all about perfectly curated feeds, whisperings of a new app called TikTok were just starting, and X was called Twitter (and it was a lot more fun!).

Fast-forward to 2024 and things have changed…a lot. The social media landscape is practically unrecognizable. Here’s the thing: if your small business is still relying solely on Facebook ads and static posts from 2018, you might be missing out on a whole new world of potential customers who engage with dynamic content like TikTok videos and Instagram Stories.

What Goes into Managing Social Media?

While content creation is an important part of our work, there is so much going on behind the scenes that not everyone is aware of. When we first meet with a client, we focus on getting to know their business, their brand, their voice. Social media at its core is social, so it is important that we represent our clients precisely how they would represent themselves.

Next comes the research. With every new industry comes time and care researching, ensuring we have the correct vernacular and understand the ins and outs of our client’s business. We look at competitors in the area as well as larger aspects of the industry.

Once we are well-versed enough to begin content creation, we work with our client on branding. Sometimes clients have developed branding guides with specific fonts, pantones, and logo graphics. Other times, clients ask for our guidance on branding, and we are happy to oblige, calling on our graphic designer’s skills to work with the client on branding specifics.

What’s next? Engagement, social listening, strategy meetings, posting schedules, analytics…and more! Now that the content is out there, there is still much work to be done! In order to keep our clients’ businesses ahead of the competition, we must consistently review strategy, analytics of existing content, optimal posting times, competitors’ social media, engage with other businesses or followers on behalf of our client, respond to comments and answer messages and questions. To say the least, social media is a 24/7 job! On top of the constant change on a day-to-day basis, there has been an enormous amount of change year over year.

Let’s talk about the big shift: the rise of authenticity and community. People are craving real connections and behind-the-scenes glimpses. Polished feeds are out, and user-generated content (UGC)—think customer testimonials and reviews—is in.

This authenticity focus has fuelled the rise of new platforms. TikTok, once a platform for silly dance trends, has exploded into a hub for businesses of all sizes. Short-form video content, with its focus on entertainment and education, allows businesses to showcase their brand personality and connect with a younger demographic.

Even established platforms have adapted. Instagram Stories, barely a blip in 2018, are now a powerful tool for fostering connections. There are currently over 500 million people creating and watching Instagram Stories on their mobile devices every day, making them a fantastic way to share behind-the-scenes snippets, host interactive polls, and offer exclusive deals.

But wait, there’s more! Here are some under-the-radar trends you might not have heard about:

  • The rise of niche communities: Platforms like Discord, originally designed for gamers, and Reddit are now home to thriving communities for all sorts of interests. Imagine a community of dog lovers for your pet store or a knitting enthusiasts’ group for your yarn shop—the possibilities are endless!
  • The “conversational commerce” boom: People are increasingly using social media to directly connect with businesses and make purchases. Platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are making it easier than ever to shop directly through the app, blurring the lines between social interaction and sales.

So, what does this all mean for your small business? It’s time to ditch the “set it and forget it” social media strategy. Here are a few tips:

  1. Identify your target audience. Who are you trying to reach? For instance, knowing that your audience prefers Instagram for visual content and Twitter for news updates can help tailor your social media content effectively.
  2. Focus on building relationships. Social media is all about conversations, not just broadcasts. Engaging in conversations with your audience can lead to loyal customers who feel connected to your brand. Respond to comments, host Q&A sessions, and encourage user-generated content.
  3. Embrace new formats. Experiment with short-form video content, such as product tutorials, live streams for behind-the-scenes glimpses, and interactive features like polls to gather feedback from your audience.
  4. Stay informed. Keeping up with the latest trends can feel overwhelming, but there are resources available. Consider following industry leaders on X and Instagram or subscribing to social media marketing newsletters for valuable insights.

Feeling lost? Don’t worry; that’s where MYOB can help. While Emily is the Social Media Manager here at MYOB Inc., the team of five people is loaded with talent and work together.

We know that the most important thing is to be authentic, connect with your audience, and have fun! After all, social media is a powerful tool for building relationships and growing your business.

So, are you ready to take your social media presence to the next level? Click here to get in touch with us today. We’re here to help you through the next six years – and beyond!

Don’t Fall for the Follower Trap: Why Buying “Likes” Hurts Your Small Business

Don’t Fall for the Follower Trap: Why Buying “Likes” Hurts Your Small Business

You have a fantastic product or service, an eye-catching website, and now you’re ready to tackle social media. But let’s be honest, building a following from scratch takes time and effort. Enter the tempting world of buying followers. Thousands of “fans” with a single click—sounds like a shortcut to social media success, right? Wrong. Here’s why purchasing followers for Facebook and Instagram can harm your ability to connect with authentic customers.

Why Artificial Followers Are Not Good for Businesses

The main issue with bot followers is that these artificial accounts do not engage with your content, meaning your posts may not reach real and potential customers. Additionally, social media platforms are cracking down on fake followers, which could result in penalties for your business, such as decreased visibility or account suspension. Sure, your follower count might skyrocket, but these fake accounts aren’t real people scrolling through their feeds. They won’t like, comment on, or share your posts.

Remember, social media algorithms prioritize engagement—the more interaction your content gets, the more people see it. When there’s low engagement despite a large number of followers, it signals a problem to the algorithm, effectively burying your content and limiting its exposure to real customers. For example, if your business buys fake followers to boost your numbers, you may find that your posts are no longer showing up in your followers’ feeds or search results. This could lead to a decrease in website traffic, resulting in lower sales and a negative impact on your overall brand reputation.

How Fake Followers Hurt Your Advertising Efforts

Imagine you’re running a targeted ad campaign on Facebook. When you pay to reach a specific audience, you want to make sure your ad reaches real people who might be interested in your product. Having numerous fake followers makes it challenging for Facebook to identify your ideal customer, turning your targeted ads into a guessing game. This can result in wasted advertising dollars and a lower return on investment.

In order to effectively reach your target audience and maximize the effectiveness of your advertising efforts, it is crucial to regularly audit and clean up your social media following to ensure that you are reaching real, engaged users who are likely to convert. By focusing on quality over quantity, you can improve the performance of your ads and ultimately drive better results for your business.

The Benefits of Building a Real Community

Here’s the not-so-secret secret: building a loyal following takes work, but the rewards are immeasurable. Focus on creating high-quality content that resonates with your target audience. Consider running contests and giveaways to encourage interaction. And, most importantly, be authentic and engage with your followers directly. Although it may require more time, these authentic connections will be valuable and drive actual growth. It is better to have a smaller, engaged audience than a large, disengaged one.

By building a real community, you are creating a group of loyal customers who are genuinely interested in your brand. These followers are more likely to make repeat purchases, refer their friends and family, and become brand advocates. Additionally, a strong community can provide valuable feedback and insights that can help improve your products or services. So, put in the effort to nurture and grow your community, and you will see the benefits in the long run.

Over to You

Abandon the tempting trap of buying followers and instead focus on creating a vibrant online community where sincere relationships foster long-term success.

Here at MYOB, we understand the challenges of social media management for small businesses. This includes customized content strategies, targeted audience engagement techniques, and ongoing support to enhance your online visibility and engagement. Our experienced team of social media managers, with years of industry knowledge, can collaborate with you to create a content strategy that not only reflects your brand values but also captivates your intended audience.

What aspect of building a loyal following do you find most challenging? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments!

Written By: Jennifer Hanford, MYOB Blogger

Instagram AI for Your Small Business

Instagram AI for Your Small Business

Imagine this: you are overwhelmed with invoices, multi-tasking through emails, and attempting to craft an engaging Instagram caption that won’t be lost in the algorithm. Suddenly, an amazing opportunity presents itself, promising engagement, growth, and a way out of the social media grind. Sounds tempting, doesn’t it? But before clicking on that “buy now” button, let’s determine if these Instagram AI tools are truly the solution to your small business challenges.

When considering any new tool or technology, it is essential to thoroughly understand its features and limitations before deciding to buy or use it. Businesses should identify the specific areas that Instagram AI tools can improve, such as automated posting, targeted audience reach, or analytical tracking. It is also important to evaluate your budget and determine if these tools align with the overall marketing strategy.

AI’s Impact on Engagement and Growth

According to recent statistics, AI presents the potential for Instagram enhancements that can considerably help businesses. Take a look at these numbers:

  • 80% of Instagram users engage with AI-powered content. (Source: Sprout Social)
  • AI-driven hashtag research boosts post reach by 30%. (Source: Social Pilot)
  • Scheduling tools save you six hours per week. (Source: Hootsuite)
  • Instagram ads powered by AI see 20% higher conversion rates. (Source: Meta for Business)
  • Using AI-generated captions can increase comments by 15%. (Source: Later)

AI Resources for Small Business

Let’s examine some popular AI solutions for Instagram and weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each.

Jasper.ai (formerly Jarvis): Jasper AI can generate inventive hooks, product descriptions, and even hashtags for your Instagram posts.
Pros: Saves time; combats writer’s block; generates catchy copy.
Cons: Requires fine-tuning to match your brand voice and can occasionally produce generic content.

Canva: AI-powered features like photo resizing and background removal make it a one-stop shop for visual storytelling.
Pros: User-friendly interface; diverse visual content; AI simplifies design tasks.
Cons: Limited free plan and a learning curve for complex designs.

Tailwind: Tailwind schedules posts, suggests hashtags, and even analyzes competitors’ strategies.
Pros: Smart scheduling; competitor analysis; hashtag optimization.
Cons: Free plan limitations; some features can feel overwhelming.

Predis.ai: Predis suggests responses to comments, automates direct messages, and even identifies potential brand ambassadors.
Pros: Automates engagement; identifies valuable followers; saves time overall.
Cons: Can feel robotic if overused; limited free plan.

Bonus Tips:

  • Before committing to a paid subscription, try out free trials and demos first. Most tools provide a taste of their AI magic so that you can make an informed decision.
  • Define your objectives and identify your target audience. Doing this will help you choose the most suitable AI tool for your Instagram journey.
  • Experiment! Not every tool will fit your needs perfectly. Explore different options to find the AI tools that resonate with your workflow.

Using AI: Challenges and Considerations

AI has great marketing potential for Instagram but misusing it can damage your brand’s voice. Choose AI tools carefully and avoid quick fixes for success. Instead, focus on genuine engagement and organic growth for a sustainable Instagram account. Here are a few points to keep in mind:

  • Over-reliance on AI can lead to robotic and impersonal content. Incorporate your brand’s voice and personality to make your content stand out!
  • Not all AI tools are created equal. Do your research and choose tools that align with your needs and budget.
  • Be mindful of Instagram’s policies on automation. Avoid tools that promise fake followers or engagement.

Over to You!

AI is a powerful tool, but it is not a magic wand. Use it strategically and prioritize authenticity while always maintaining your brand’s voice. With the right AI companion, you can streamline your workflow, boost engagement, and watch your Instagram presence flourish.

Are you ready to up your Instagram game and take your small business to new heights? Which AI tool sounds like the best one for you?

When you’re ready to outsource your social media management, we have a great team at MYOB, ready to work with you!

Written by: Jennifer Hanford, MYOB Blogger

The Secret World Behind the Scenes of Social Media

The Secret World Behind the Scenes of Social Media

I personally enjoy following and engaging with various Facebook and Instagram pages from my favourite brands, local businesses, and influencers, as do many other avid social media users. Many people, however, are unaware of a whole world of activity happening behind the scenes.

Well, get ready — you’re in for a treat today! Let’s go behind the scenes together for a sneak peek of the intriguing world of business page management on Facebook and Instagram. We’ll reveal some hidden characteristics that may not be known about by individuals who follow us on social media.

Private/Direct Messages and Groups

One of the lesser-known features of business page management is the ability to send and receive private or direct messages. These messages enable seamless communication between the organization and its followers. Page owners can also create and manage various groups, such as neighbourhood, interest-based, or professional groups, which helps foster a sense of community and engagement among their followers.

In addition to private messaging and group creation, business page management allows page owners to schedule and publish posts in advance. This feature makes it convenient for pages to maintain a consistent presence on social media platforms and reach a wider audience at optimal times. Furthermore, analytics tools are available to track the performance of posts, groups, and overall page engagement, supplying valuable insights for improving content strategy and audience targeting.

Pseudonym Accounts

Pseudonym accounts are user profiles created with a fictional or other name rather than the user’s real name. Since organizations are potentially interacting with people who prefer to remain anonymous on social media, they will need to figure out ways to balance respecting user privacy with maintaining authenticity on their pages.

On the other hand, individuals can feel secure about having the freedom to share their thoughts without worrying about criticism or reactions when using pseudonymous accounts. However, page owners should implement robust verification procedures to safeguard the credibility of their online community, as there is potential for misuse or fraudulent activities that can arise from anonymous communications.

Restricting Views

Page owners should consider having control over who can access their content. They can limit access to specific people or groups to ensure their content is seen by the proper people while also respecting privacy concerns.

Businesses can further improve their control over information access by putting robust security measures in place, as well as using encryption technology. Additionally, they may react to shifting privacy laws and maintain a secure environment for their content by routinely checking and adjusting access permissions.

Security Settings

Business page managers have the authority to set security parameters and decide who is allowed to post, tag, and perform other actions on their page. These settings help protect the page’s integrity and prevent spam or unwanted content.

Additionally, they can also monitor and moderate the comments and messages received on their page to ensure a positive user experience. Using these security measures helps to support a professional online presence and foster a safe environment for their audience.

Insights and Analytics

Facebook and Instagram supply insights and analytics that are among the most valuable tools for page managers. These analytics offer a comprehensive overview of the page’s performance, including reach, engagement, and demographic data. The data is typically accessible by the page’s administrator, which gives them valuable insights for strategy refinement.

By analyzing reach and engagement metrics, brands can understand the effectiveness of their content and make data-driven decisions to optimize their social media presence. Demographic data that is gathered allows organizations to target their audience effectively so they can better tailor their marketing efforts to reach the right people at the right time.

Hidden Likes Count

Recent changes on Instagram (and maybe Facebook for some pages) include the option to hide the number of likes on posts. Business page administrators still have access to them, though.

By hiding the number of likes, Instagram is helping to reduce the pressure and anxiety associated with seeking validation through likes. This change also allows users to focus more on the content itself, which helps foster a healthier online environment where meaningful interactions take precedence over popularity metrics.

Privacy Settings of Your Followers

The privacy settings of your followers play a significant role in what you can see as a business page manager. Some followers may choose to share your posts publicly, while others may restrict their content to a more private audience. Understanding these settings helps businesses customize content to meet their followers’ preferences and privacy concerns.

By understanding the privacy settings of your followers, you can ensure that your content reaches the right audience and resonates with them. This knowledge allows page owners to create more targeted and personalized marketing strategies, ultimately improving engagement and building stronger relationships.

Over to You

As you can see, the world of business page management on Facebook and Instagram is a multifaceted realm filled with powerful tools and hidden gems. It’s not just about posting content; it’s about crafting a tailored, engaging experience that respects individual preferences and fosters lasting connections.

So, as you continue your journey in the fascinating world of social media, remember that there’s always more beneath the surface. And, if you are a page owner or social media manager, it’s important to remember the value of staying informed and adapting to the evolving landscape. You’ll be better equipped to manage this dynamic environment and meaningfully interact with your audience.

As social media managers, our MYOB Inc. team is fully equipped to help you navigate the world of social media for your business.

Written by: Jennifer Hanford, MYOB Blogger