Today’s digital landscape is saturated with social media profiles, blog posts and articles, online magazines, videos, images, and more – all competing for our attention. In order to cut through the noise and rise above the competition, your brand should consider utilizing hashtags to help your content get found on social media sites. Using hashtags can also help you connect with new audiences and find people who are talking about topics that interest you. That being said, many businesses remain tentative when it comes to using hashtags as they aren’t sure what they stand for or how they can be useful. If this sounds like you, read on for everything you need to know about hashtags so you can use them effectively from here on out.
Before diving into how to use hashtags on social media, it’s important to understand their basics. Hashtags are keywords or phrases preceded by a “hash” sign. The pound sign means “keyword” You type “hash” followed by your keyword to use a hashtag. Hashtags are also used on blogs, websites, and newsletters. Because they help people connect and engage. Someone who likes your content may use your hashtags. Your feed will update if that happens.
Why are hashtags important for business?
Hashtags can help spread your content when used correctly. They can help you find new audiences, build relationships with influencers, and grow your brand. Hashtags can backfire, so use them wisely. Many brands misuse hashtags, damaging their reputations. Remember that hashtags describe a post. They’re not the post. Using hashtags as your main social media content will hurt your brand. Choose hashtags that fit your audience and content. Use them in your post to boost engagement.
Hashtags When?
Hashtags are never wrong, but they should be used sparingly. Overusing hashtags looks spammy. Use hashtags sparingly and only on relevant posts. Try using hashtags that are relevant to the content you’re creating. Consider a content marketing blog post. You can narrow that topic by using hashtags. Use brand-related hashtags.
How to use hashtags
Find the right hashtag words. You should use relevant hashtags that will be searched. Research what people are searching for to find the best hashtag words. Hootsuite and other social media platforms offer analytics and insights to help you choose hashtags. Keyword Planner, Google Trends, and other free online tools can help you decide.
As you can see, hashtags can be incredibly helpful for businesses. However, it’s important to remember that the best hashtags aren’t the ones that everyone else is using. They’re the hashtags that are relevant to your content and your audience. At the end of the day, using hashtags successfully boils down to strategic planning. Start by getting to know your audience and their interests. Then, use those insights to help you decide which hashtags to use.
by @MarkPavelich CEO The Mark Consulting & Marketing