Lifestyle Brands -- It's Time to Start Getting Social!

There’s nothing more important for a new or established lifestyle brand than generating exposure and brand awareness. After all, isn’t that why companies have those massive marketing budgets? Whether it’s through a television commercial or a sales force, exposure of a lifestyle brand to prospective customers is critical in long-term marketing goals.

But great marketing efforts aren’t just for the big guys. Now, with the advent of social media, the marketing game has really changed! Social media marketing is really becoming a part of any small business owner’s toolkit — and why shouldn’t it? Real engagement with customers is a critical part of any solid marketing efforts, and social media offers this when done right.  According to one survey, 85% of marketers believe the number one benefit of social media marketing is generating more business exposure. This was followed closely by increasing traffic (69%).

Whether you have a burgeoning new accessories line, or a long established Italian restaurant, any small business can benefit from greater exposure through social media. Before you venture on any marketing plan, ask yourself these important questions:

• Which social platforms (Twitter, Facebook, Google Plus) does my target customer use?
• How do I get noticed by my potential customers?
• How can we engage these customers with our existing resources?

In the new and growing field of social media marketing, it’s important to note that each platform has its own distinct advantages. If you are selling a tangible product such as clothes or jewelry, a visual platform like Pinterest would be an important consideration for driving traffic. But, if you are more service oriented or your product requires a demonstration, YouTube might be the better platform.

The use of social media marketing tools will only increase over time. For lifestyle brands, it’s important to start building a marketing strategy that positions their product or service in the best possible light — and helps build the customer loyalty that any smart business wants.

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