Hashtags 101: The Basics of Business Marketing

Ever stared at a #hashtag and felt like you were trying to decode hieroglyphics? Fret not, dear reader! Charisma is here to demystify hashtags, those omnipresent symbols that seem to have taken over the digital world.

Social media is the ultimate equalizer. It gives a voice and a platform to anyone willing to engage.
- Amy Jo Martin

Indeed, Ms. Martin hit the nail on the head. With social media, you're not just a business owner anymore; you're a broadcaster, a publisher, and a digital influencer all rolled into one. But with great power comes great responsibility, and the key to harnessing the power of social media lies in understanding how to use tools like hashtags effectively.

The Magic of Hashtags: More Than Just a Pound Sign

So, what are hashtags and how do they work on social media platforms?

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Think of hashtags as the secret sauce that can spice up your brand's social media presence. These humble 'pound' signs can amplify your message, reach your target audience, and even spark a trending conversation. But, like any good sauce, it's all about how and when you use them - otherwise, you end up with a big, old mess.

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Hashtags are more than just a trendy symbol. They're a KEY element when it comes to social media marketing. But why?

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• Boost Visibility: Your content can be outstanding, but if no one sees it, it won't make an impact. (Think: the tree in the woods adage.) Hashtags increase your visibility by making your content discoverable to those who aren't following you.
  
  
• Engage With Your Audience: Hashtags aren't just about getting seen, they're about getting heard. They enable businesses to engage directly with their audience, fostering a sense of community and connection.
  
  
• Track Your Performance: Knowing how well your posts perform is crucial in social media marketing. Hashtags allow you to track engagement, trends, and the overall effectiveness of your content.

Remember: Hashtags are tools. Knowing how to wield them effectively can make all the difference between a successful marketing strategy and a failed one.

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Hashtags: The Where and Where Not

Now, you're sold on the importance of hashtags. But where and when should you be using them? Each social media platform has its own unwritten rules around hashtags.

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Wondering, 'What is the best way to use hashtags to promote my business?' We say it's typically best to keep it simple. The key is to study the norms of each platform and adapt accordingly. Hashtags are like passports; they're welcomed on Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook, but it's crucial to understand the etiquette in each social media country.

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While platforms like Instagram and Twitter thrive on the use of hashtags, overusing them on platforms like Facebook might make your content look spammy (certainly not what you want). While not using them often enough can lead to missed opportunities. It's all about striking the right balance. Oversaturating your posts with hashtags on LinkedIn might be frowned upon, while Instagram posts can happily accommodate up to 30. Facebook you may see posts with one or two hashtags.

Using too many hashtags can make posts
look spammy and decrease engagement.

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The sweet spot in our opinion? Use hashtags when they add value and relevance to your content! Review what you plan to post and if it's relevant, then include your hashtags.

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Knowing When to Hashtag

Knowing the right time to use hashtags is also key. Launching a new product, special sale, or hosting an event? Drum up excitement with a unique hashtag. Announcing a sale or promoting a special offer? A well-crafted hashtag can help amplify your message. Remember, the goal is to engage your audience, not overwhelm them with a flurry of hashtags.

Should I Create My Own Unique Hashtags for My Business?

Absolutely! In essence, they act as a beacon, guiding potential customers to your digital doorstep. When you have a hashtag for your business like #brandyourhcharisma or #wellwrittencontent, you make it easier for a wider audience to discover your brand not just what types of projects or industry you're in.

Creating a branded hashtag can help businesses increase
brand awareness and encourage user-generated content.

Creating a branded hashtag, as Hootsuite suggests, can also be a game changer. This unique hashtag, associated solely with your business, can increase brand awareness and encourage user-generated content. Imagine your customers using your branded hashtag in their posts, effectively becoming brand ambassadors!

The Art of Choosing the Right Hashtags

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Outside of your own branded hashtag, we get that choosing the right hashtags can feel daunting. But fear not! Start by doing some hashtag research. Look at what your competitors are using and what's trending in your industry. Experiment with different combinations and track your results. Over time, you'll get a sense of which hashtags resonate most with your audience.

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Remember, the power of hashtags lies in their ability to connect and engage. Used wisely, they can open up a world of opportunities for your business. So, get hashtagging and watch your digital footprint grow!

How Can I Track the Success of My Hashtag Campaigns?

Tracking the success of your marketing campaigns is important to help you focus and scale. Here's how to track how hashtags are working for you. Just remember, you've got this!

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1. Engagement Metrics

First off, take a peek at your engagement metrics. This includes likes, shares, comments, and retweets. A successful hashtag will create a ripple effect, boosting these numbers.

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2. Hashtag Monitoring Tools

Can't get enough of data? Hashtag monitoring tools, like Hashtagify or RiteTag, are your new best friends. They'll let you monitor the performance of your hashtags, giving you insights into their popularity and reach.

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3. Google Analytics

Don’t forget about Google Analytics. This FREE tool will help you track the traffic driven by your hashtags to your website. Check your landing pages for your social media posts (social organic traffic) and channel performance to see how your social channels are working with all your other marketing efforts.

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4. Competitor Analysis

Stay one step ahead of the game by keeping an eye on your competitors! If their hashtags are getting more traction, it might be time to recalibrate your strategy.

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5. Customer Response

Lastly, don't ignore the human element. Pay attention to the feedback from your customers. Are they using your hashtags? If not, it might be time for a hashtag makeover.

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It Calls for Charisma

Remember, hashtags aren't just about the numbers. They're about sparking conversations and building a community. So, keep your ear to the ground and your eyes on the data, and you'll be a hashtag hero in no time!

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Should you need any help with your hashtags or social media content strategy; it calls for Charisma!

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