Using Social Media as a Marketing Tool

NeedSomeoneToBlog.com Answers Quilter’s Social Media Question

Since we’re talking about quilts, I must say that I am REALLY tempted to suggest a “blanket marketing” approach.  😉  However, since you are a non-profit group, and likely on the smaller size, I’m guessing that your budget would not support such a venture and really it is not necessary. I always suggest visualizing where you want to be as the first step.  This part of the process can be quick or time consuming, depending on you and the team you are working with.  You have done a large part of this by determining what your end goal is: to raise funds for your guild and local charities. But, what does that look like?

Will your event be:

• An upscale gala attracting Los Angeles area business leaders (I noticed you were from Simi Valley)?
• A more casual craft fair at the local community center where all are welcome to browse?
• Or something in between?

Of Course, You Also Need Blog Posts…

Next, you’ll need blog posts!  Obviously, I am all about using the blog to share your posts when it comes to creating interest in your event. Content and descriptions on quilts and styles of threading or patterns, even the  reason behind the making of the quilt are all enticing topics.  You could even post mini-interviews on the “why” of each quilt member and how they came to be in your guild.  Blogging (at least 2 times per week) will help you gain search engine recognition quickly, if you share your posts on social media. If you need blog posts or help figuring out what to write about, call me to discuss it or subscribe to my blog.  I have some great ideas for you!  With that said, here is an ordered list that I would suggest to get you started on promoting your quilt show, please pardon its simplicity in parts – I just want to make sure you cover the basics.

8 Ways To Make Social Media Can Be Your Best Marketing Tool

1. Establish a web presence with a website where you can blog.  Once again, you NEED blog posts!  (There are many low/no cost options out there.)  Then you need to decide where you want to share your posts.
2. Link your website to email and other contact information.
3. Create a Facebook Group Page or Google+ Community and include your event in your main timeline photo.
4. Show off Current Projects on a Pinterest or Instagram account.  Crafters love photos so this is a MUST for you.  Snap as many as you can and start posting!  This may require a learning curve, but it shouldn’t be too difficult for you as I know many teens who live on it.  
5. Use SnapChat or similar services to generate interest with guessing games, this or thats, before & after shots or admission discount codes.
6. Create a YouTube channel and Use it!  IF you have someone who loves to do videos, you would benefit tremendously from this, by using it to preview, do behind the scenes takes, “Discussions from the Quilt” or “Jaws” music as the event approaches, etc.   Use the camera on your mobile phone or flipcam, and just have some fun while you create your quilts.  Upload the videos to YouTube, share, and watch your audience increase.
7. Reserve a Twitter hashtag and use it! Find an audience who loves quilts and tweet out  your progress.
8. Link all of the above together, share your posts, and you have the start to building a stellar show.  Good luck!
9. And, don’t forget to keep checking my blog for more information from time to time.  Would love to have you back!