Debunking Social Media Myths
With over 3.6 billion people using social media all over the world, it's no wonder that businesses are looking to make their mark in the digital landscape…but when you are just getting started, it can be hard to separate myth from fact. ESPECIALLY because there are so many myths out there about how to be successful on social media.
For example, did you know having a ton of followers doesn't always mean you've made it? Or that posting every day isn't the only way to win? So, we're here to set the record straight. We're gonna give you some tips that are just suggestions - not hard and fast rules - but they can totally help you up your social media game. So, let's dive in and make your social strategy shine!
First, let’s kick it off with the 5 most common myths we see and hear everyday. It’s important to remember that social media is always changing, so yes, perhaps at some point these myths were true. Today…not so much.
You need a large following to be successful: While having a large following can help increase your reach, it's not essential to success. Engagement and building relationships with your followers is more important than the number of followers you have. This is something we talk about so often. The name of the game is authenticity. Your loyal followers will see through the smoke and mirrors of robots and troll likes, it is so crucial to garner trust with your audience, ESPECIALLY if you are looking to convert them into patients, customers or have any sort of real world interactions!
You need to be on every platform: Trying to maintain a presence on every social media platform can be overwhelming and counterproductive. It's better to focus on a few platforms and do them well rather than spreading yourself too thin. Though we do advocate for being everywhere your target demographic is, that does not always mean having a presence of every single platform. Quality over quantity here!
You can buy followers/like to accelerate success: Buying followers and likes may give the appearance of success, but it's a short-term strategy that can hurt your credibility in the long run. True success comes from building genuine relationships with your audience and creating quality content. Like we said, authenticity is key!
You should delete hate comments: Trolls are often seeking attention and a reaction, by ignoring them you are taking away their power and incentive to continue. Responding to trolls can also attract more backlash and negativity from others, and it is important to preserve a positive and respectful environment on social media! By leaving hate comments and backlash, you can also show people no matter how big you get, not everyone will like or agree with you. It also leaves an opportunity for your audience to defend you…which usually happens and this can help boost your engagement.
Posting at the same time everyday: While consistency is important, it's not the only factor that determines success on social media. The quality of your content and engagement with your audience are also crucial to building a strong presence. There is a difference between having a healthy consistent strategy, and simply being a social media assembly line. Not to mention, this type of posting seems to accelerate creator burnout. It’s okay to loosen up! As long as you are consistent with your audience in the long run, it isn’t exactly true that one specific posting schedule will guarantee your success.
Now that we’ve covered that, here are a few tips we often see that aren’t necessarily myths…but they don’t HAVE to be followed. Think of these suggestions as the checkout line at Sephora. There’s tons of miniature sized products that catch your eye, but do you need them, or are they just discounted and cute? When we see smaller creators adhering to these “rules”, we get it. This is what everyone is telling you to do, and hey, sometimes it works! What we’re trying to say is simply that they aren’t do or die.
Trending sounds will make you go viral
You have to use a hook and call to action in every video
Engage 15 minutes before an IG post and 15 minutes after
Only posting videos vs only posting pictures…pick one and stick with it
People tend to believe a lot of theories about social media these days, but you have to fact-check and bust those myths so your online reputation and business do not fail due to misconception. Knowing what social media can and can't do will help you make smart choices and build your brand. Don't buy into the rumors and lies – get the facts straight and use social media to your advantage. Have a great time with your digital marketing and find a strategy that works for YOU!
