Taking Social To The Streets: Promoting Your Networks “Offline”

I’m sure you’ve seen them. Bus stops, billboards, and coasters: social media icons are everywhere, inconspicuously (or not) reminding us that the business world revolves around the Internet. Specifically; social media.

Americans spend more time on social media than any other online activity including email. 60% of time spent on social networks is done on smartphones or tablets.

What does this mean? Your potential consumers are checking in on Facebook while they browse retail stores, or scrolling through their Twitter feeds while they wait to be seated at restaurants. It’s time to take advantage.

Is your business promoting its social networks “offline”? Check out these 3 simple ideas before you get started.

3 Simple Ideas for Promoting Your Social Media Presence Offline

1. Make it easy! Customers should be able to quickly find your social accounts. Do you own a café? Make sure your Twitter handle is on the menu, and be sure to ask for feedback via Tweet! Running a clothing boutique? Post your Instagram account by the dressing rooms and encourage shoppers to share their favorite looks!

   

   If your potential consumer isn’t struggling to figure out which “Jim’s Record Store” you are, there’s a better chance they’ll check in while they shop.

2. Offer incentives! Want more Facebook followers? Offer a 10% discount to anyone who “likes” your page and checks in while they’re in-store. Even better, host an Instagram contest – Have fans post a picture of themselves with your product and tag the company account, and offer a $10 gift card to the photo with the most likes!

   People love photos and competition; mix the two and you’ll be rolling in free promotion.

3. Mix social with professional! Handing out business cards at an event? Add your personal & company LinkedIn accounts to the back, and encourage new connections to find you online. If you send out a lot of emails, don’t forget to include your social URL’s in your signature to make it easy for recipients to find and “like” your pages!
   

Many companies are still struggling to find the “value” in being active on social media: Stay ahead of the game by consistently updating your accounts, and making your networks readily available to your customers.

Have you seen any brilliant offline social media marketing? Share your experience in the comments!