How to include your followers in your social media marketing

Ross East -

If you would like to build a stronger community, but are unsure where to start, keep reading for our favourite tips.

1. Give your followers their 15 minutes of fame

As there’s already a whole generation that grew up with Internet and social media, it’s no surprise that people want to get their names out there. Your brand channels could be the perfect place for them to get their 15 minutes of social media fame.

If you do highlight them on social media, you will receive original user-generated content that you can use on your social channels, advertising campaigns and website.

You could ask your followers to submit their content by using a hashtag. This can boost your social presence whilst gathering a good amount of content in the process.

2. Run a competition exclusively for followers

Everybody loves a competition that’s free to enter. They appeal to the human nature of competing and creates excitement around your brand. So why not start a user-generated content competition on your social media channels?

There are plenty of things you could ask your followers to submit:

  • artwork
  • designs
  • blogs
  • videos etc.

For the winner, you could supply them with a free year of your service, or your latest and greatest product. If you don’t want to choose the winner, you could also open this up to your fans. Let them choose via a poll!

3. Crowdsource opinion

A great way to get opinions on new ideas or designs for your website is to crowdsource it on your social media channels. You can ask your followers for their opinion on the next flavour of your product (famously done by Walkers Crisps), or if they have any ideas for your next campaign. Users love feeling empowered – with this you will be building a stronger and more loyal community than you’ve ever had before.

Read and comment on the original Social Media Examiner article.