COVID-19 has left many uncertainties for businesses and brands all over the world. There’s no denying that these are tough times, but when times are tough, it’s essential to have all the right things to say and strategies in place on social media.
Do you stick with your old messaging and pretend it’s still business as usual? Probably not.
Do you become another news media outlet for COVID-19, sharing everything that you come across from all sides? We don't suggest it.
While we can’t answer all of your business’ questions for you, we can give you a few tips on how to handler social media marketing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Focus on Your Business as a Whole
We can all agree that now is a hard time for businesses worldwide, but you can stay connected to your customers using your platforms. Connect with them where they are. You may be a shoe store, but that doesn't mean you can't share fun activities for parents who are at home with their kids. Be a voice of calm in your follower's feed, and don't be afraid to step outside of what is considered the norm. After all, everything is far from the norm right now.
During this time, it may be best to pull away from paid marketing ads. Right now, many people aren’t buying a lot of non-essentials online. Instead, focus on your brand identity and connecting with your customers. You will be at the top of their mind when this is all over. It'll be hard to get out of the ROI is King mindset, but right now, while ROI is important, it's not the most important. Staying relevant, connected, and your followers engaged is.
Although sales may have seen a decrease, it doesn’t mean you can’t make any sales at all. Consider bringing your sales online or making them easy to use and unique during this time. Are you a restaurant trying to operate at 50% capacity? Consider adding affordable family meals to go for your customers. It doesn't have to be something you've offered in the past; it can be a brand new item that gets people excited!
Reevaluate Your Messaging
Considering the type of social media content you post is probably a good instinct right now. Give some additional care to the empathy and tone of your social content instead of ignoring the situation completely. Identify what your customers are feeling right now (it's probably pretty similar to what you're feeling!) and match your tone around that.
Social media and your messaging is a great way to connect and engage with your followers and customers. Consider creating resources, blog posts, or videos for them. This will not only give you something to work with, but also give your customers a resource from one of their favorite brands or services!
Take Care of Yourself
Social media is already a stressful place to be. And right now, almost everything is strictly coming through online and social media. Remember, your mental health is important. Take care of yourself! Although your new office is most likely in your home, it’s important to still get offline and take a break when you can. Remind your followers to do the same.