Hashtags. Love ’em or hate ’em, they are here to stay. Hashtags are now used not only where they originated on Twitter, but Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook have joined the hashtag party too. If you want your marketing to stand out, there are a few things you can do with hashtags to help get your message out to the masses.
Hashtags are searchable keywords that allow not just your followers, but anyone, to find your tweet, picture or status update. They’re are a must if you are trying to get your brand, product, or service in front of a larger audience.
Choosing a good, strategic hashtag is just as important as including one in the first place. When you start to use them regularly it’s even better because they become synonymous with your brand.
5 Things to Think About When Choosing Strategic Hashtags
1. Think location.
Where is the audience you’re trying to reach? If you’re trying to target a specific audience in a city, region, or state, include it as a hashtag in your post. People often search for locations to see what is going on or what is new. You can be as broad as #California or as specific as #Rocklin.
2. Think questions.
If you are asking your followers a question, a hashtag is a great way to get your question answered by more people. Include the hashtags #WeWannaKnow or #ShareYourOpinion and chances are you’ll get more than just your followers seeing and responding to your question. The bonus is that your brand was just seen by thousands more than your follower list.
3. Think about your target.
Are you trying to reach a specific group of people? Maybe a certain profession, moms, or people who exercise, etc. Think about including those names as a hashtag. Examples can include: #MomProblems #LovinYoga #WorkplaceSafety.
4. Think length.
Don’t commit hashtag abuse! Hashtags should be clear, concise and something people will probably search. It’s better to include two or three short hashtags than one long one that is hard to read. For example, a restaurant is better off promoting their happy hour using the hashtags #Sacramento #happyhour #greatfood than by using #BestHappyHourWithGreatFoodInSacramento
5. Think current events or holidays.
A great way to have your brand be seen is to make sure you hashtag posts related to current event and/or holidays. If it’s the Fourth of July you can use the hashtags #HappyBirthday #America. If you are having especially cold weather you can use #Brrr as well as a location hashtag. If it’s election time why not use #IVoted or #BallotTime.
As you can see, the power of the hashtag wields various different weapons in the fight to get your brand front and center in a crowded digital age. Remember these quick tips and you’ll be #winning for your brand in no time!