Why you should step up your brand’s community management
Community management isn't just about reckless liking and reacting to comments on your brand's social media posts. It's a valuable tool for boosting engagement and expanding your follower base. Discover seven effective ways CM can enhance your brand.
1. Increase your engagement
Let’s not sugarcoat it: liking comments and reacting with emojis is not enough. Show interest in your followers’ thoughts, elaborate on what they are saying and ask their opinions. The more you reply with engaging answers, the more people will feel confident in commenting on your posts and stories in the future.
2. Gain followers and build a community
Nobody likes a brand that doesn’t listen to its followers. It's encouraging for your audience to see that your brand answers almost every question or comment that comes its way. Interactions with peers increase brand credibility and can kindle the desire to be part of the conversation and community. (#sharingiscaring).
3. Show you’re human
Thanks to the rise of social media, the era of massive, untouchable and unreachable corporations is officially over. Nowadays, people crave a more personal touch from their favourite brands. Respond with a human touch, letting your followers know that their opinions matter. Make it clear that there are genuine individuals behind your brand and account.
4. Guide people into the way you want your brand to be perceived
A positive perception of your brand is key. Community management is a great way to temper the negative comments and keep control over the conversation. *
*The Instagram account of one of our own clients is a perfect example here.
Because of a documentary falsely stating that their product contained chemical particles, we received a lot of negative comments after the launch of their Instagram account. After carefully responding to the negativity with facts and positive CM, we managed to turn the tide and grow a more engaging follower base.
5. Get inspired
Engaging with your audience offers you a clear view on how your brand is perceived by the users. It’s a great way to uncover what topics live in your community. Look for what triggers your community and use this as an inspiration for future content.
6. Increase brand awareness with conversation management
Only replying to the comments on your own social media is the absolute minimum. Instead, explore your community and engage with them. For our brands, we often comment on and engage with content of potential future prospects. This way, we’re introducing brands to them and their followers. It’s a good way to engage with your (future) community, gain followers and brand awareness.
7. Create brand ambassadors
When you actively engage with dedicated followers and fans, you’ll convince them even more to choose for your brand. Strong community management is a great way to gain new fans and strengthen your relationship with current followers. Over time, loyal followers and fans won’t just continue to comment on your content, but they’ll also spread the word.
So, ready to get your hands dirty? Go out there and start managing your community!