Canva is a free online platform that makes it simple to create stunning graphics. However, what is Canva capable of beyond design creation? With the Canva content planner, you can effortlessly create and schedule social media posts ahead of time for various platforms.

It’s super easy to use as you’ll see in the step-by-step guide. Let’s get started!

What is the Canva Content Planner?

The Canva Content Planner is a tool designed for social media management for small businesses, individuals, and enterprise users. It assists businesses in planning, publishing, and measuring their social media content.

The content planner offers a library of templates and resources, simplifying the creation of high-quality social media posts. It also features scheduling and reporting tools, allowing businesses to monitor their social media performance. Overall, the Canva Content Planner is an exceptionally valuable tool for anyone looking to enhance their social media presence.

Is the Canva Content Planner Only Available for Canva Pro Subscribers?

Any user can access Canva’s content planner, but the schedule posts feature is only available to Canva Pro, Enterprise, and Nonprofits users. Fortunately, they offer a 30-day trial on their Pro membership, which gives you access to all of the paid features.

So if you’re looking to get a little more organized with your content strategy, the Content Planner is a great place to start.

Why You Should be Using the Canva Social Media Scheduler and Content Planner

If you’re serious about stepping up your social media game, then you need to use Canva’s powerful social media scheduler and content planner. Here are four reasons why:

• It’s a huge time saver. Social media is an important part of marketing, and Canva’s amazing tool can help you save time.
• User-friendly. You can easily drag and drop content into the scheduler to have your post sent to any of the nine channels.
• Bird’s eye view. It has a visual calendar view making it easy to see what’s coming up.
• Integration. It integrates with several popular social media platforms, so you can quickly and easily post your content with just a few clicks.

How to Use the Canva Content Planner: A Step By Step Guide

Let’s dive into how to use the Canva content planner to create and schedule your social media posts in the steps below.

Step 1: Signup or Login To Access the Content Planner

From Canva’s homepage, sign up for or log in to your account.

Click “Content Planner” in the lower-left corner of your screen.

Step 2: Pick a Date

Click the + on the date you want your post to be scheduled.

Step 3: Choose a Template

You can schedule an existing design or create a new one.

For this guide, we will be creating a new design to schedule posts later.

Step 4: Modify the Template Images

You can remove an image by clicking on it and clicking delete or backspace.

You can add images from “Elements,” “Photos,” or upload your own in “Uploads.”

Step 5: Change Text Font

To change the font of any words in your design, click on the text to modify.

Next, click the font box at the top, then select your new font.

Now that your design is complete, can Canva post your designs on social media? You bet it can!

How to Schedule a Social Media Post using the Canva Social Media Scheduler

Now that you have your social media graphics prepared let’s discuss how to schedule and send social media posts directly to your account, which will go live at a later date.

We’ll be creating a scheduled post through Canva’s website, but you can also do this through the Canva mobile app.

Step 6: Share on Social

Click the “Share” button at the top right of your screen, then click “Share on social.”

Step 7: Schedule Your Social Media Post

Click on “Schedule” in the top left of the white box.

Step 8: Date and Social Platform

If you want to modify the date when your design is shared on any social media network, click the three dots located to the right of today’s date.

To select a platform to post on, click “Select a channel.”

Step 9: Select a Channel to Schedule Post

Select the social media channel for which you want to schedule your post.

Pro users can use the scheduling tool to post on Facebook groups, LinkedIn Profile, LinkedIn Page, Pinterest Board, and more. But We’ll select “Facebook Page” for this example.

However, you can use your Instagram business account or any of your other supported social media accounts.

Step 10: Connect Your Social Media Account

You’ll need to connect Canva to your social media accounts before you can schedule your first post.

Since we’re using Facebook for this guide, click “Connect Facebook” and follow the onscreen instructions.

Step 11: Select Where to Schedule Post

Choose the channel for your post by clicking on one of the connected accounts or pages. You can link multiple pages to schedule your posts effectively.

Step 12: Schedule Your Post

Next, you’ll write something that will be posted to your social media account with your design.

Once that’s set, schedule your post by clicking the “Schedule” button. Your scheduled post will go live on the date you set earlier in this guide.

Repeat the above steps to set up more scheduled posts.

Is the content planner on Canva free?

The answer to this question is a resounding “It depends!” Any Canva user can access the planner, although scheduling posts are only available to Pro, Enterprise, and Nonprofit users.

So, if you’re looking to save time by planning your content in advance and scheduling your posts, you’ll need to upgrade to a paid account.

Is Canva good for scheduling posts?

If you’re seeking a straightforward method to schedule your social media content, the Canva content planner is an excellent choice. Its user-friendly interface allows you to effortlessly design and schedule top-notch social media content.

What social media platforms can Canva schedule to?

By scheduling your posts in advance, you can free up your time to focus on other aspects of your business.

With Canva, you can schedule posts on Twitter, Facebook pages, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Instagram Business accounts, Tumblr, and Slack.

Image: Depositphotos

This article, "Using the Canva Content Planner to Create and Schedule Social Media Posts" was first published on Small Business Trends

Use it on your own LinkedIn page or your company’s profile. Either way this feature has the potential to make a major impact on your company’s LinkedIn strategy.

In fact, the social networking platform for professionals says that LinkedIn Live broadcasters see seven times more reactions. And they get 24 times more comments than users who post standard videos.

What Is LinkedIn Live?

LinkedIn Live serves as a dynamic avenue for professionals and businesses to engage with their network in real-time.

Born out of the increasing demand for interactive content, LinkedIn introduced this livestreaming feature, echoing similar live video options present on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. However, what differentiates LinkedIn Live is its professional context.

Users have to rely on various third-party streaming solutions to produce their content. Once they go live, the video is broadcasted not just as a fleeting moment, but as a real-time professional seminar, workshop, or discussion, allowing immediate and direct engagement with the audience. LinkedIn Events offer additional benefits for broadcasting and promoting events, such as ease of scheduling, gathering registrants, and creating professional landing pages.

Such interactions break the boundaries of traditional content, fostering deeper relationships and establishing thought leadership within the platform’s professional framework. Using LinkedIn’s preferred streaming partners, such as Restream, can simplify the process of setting up a live event on the platform.

Features of LinkedIn Live:

• Livestreaming option for LinkedIn.
• Uses third-party streaming tools for content creation.
• Broadcasts video content in real time.
• Allows direct interaction with viewers.
• Provides higher engagement rates compared to standard videos.

Some big names have found interesting ways to make use of it since its launch. For example, Best Buy used it to feature an interview with the company’s CEO. And Emirates NBD hosted an ask me anything session to interact with customers.

Benefits of Using LinkedIn Live

Using LinkedIn Live can bring numerous benefits to your professional brand or organization. Here are some of the advantages of incorporating LinkedIn Live into your content strategy:

• Increased Engagement: LinkedIn Live videos receive six times more reactions and 23 times more comments than native videos. This heightened interaction makes it an excellent way to engage with your audience in real-time, fostering a more dynamic and responsive community around your brand.
• Improved Brand Awareness: By going live on LinkedIn, you can significantly boost your visibility and reach a broader audience. This increased exposure helps establish your brand as a thought leader in your industry, positioning you at the forefront of professional conversations.
• Enhanced Credibility: LinkedIn Live allows you to showcase your expertise and build trust with your audience. By providing valuable insights and engaging content, you can enhance your credibility and authority in your field, making your brand a go-to resource for industry knowledge.
• Better Connection with Your Audience: The real-time interaction enabled by LinkedIn Live allows you to build a stronger connection with your audience. This direct engagement fosters a sense of community and loyalty, as viewers feel more personally connected to your brand.
• Increased Website Traffic and Lead Generation: Promoting your LinkedIn Live events and videos on your website and other social media channels can drive more traffic to your site. This increased traffic can lead to higher lead generation, as viewers who engage with your live content are more likely to explore your offerings further.

How to Create a LinkedIn Live Stream

Before you can go live on LinkedIn, you need to apply for approval using the platform’s online form. Once you’re approved, you’ll receive an email that will direct you toward the approved streaming platforms you can use. To create your first LinkedIn Live broadcast, you must meet specific criteria set by LinkedIn, making the process straightforward for engaging your audience through live streaming.

Choose the one that best suits your needs and sign up for an account. Then connect that service to your LinkedIn account.

From there, log into your streaming tool and start your live video. You should also be prepared to interact with viewers on LinkedIn, since that’s one of the main benefits of livestreaming in general.

Of course, it’s also a good idea to have a script or general outline so you can make sure your video content is contributing to your company’s goals on the platform. Planning and preparing for live broadcasts is crucial, but avoid being overly scripted to maintain authenticity and spontaneity.

Steps to Create a LinkedIn Live Stream:

• • Apply for approval using LinkedIn’s online form.
  • Upon approval, choose an approved streaming platform and connect it to your LinkedIn account.
  • Log into the streaming tool and initiate your live video.
  • Interact with viewers and adhere to a script or outline for the video content.
  • Benefits of live streams: Live streams on LinkedIn offer real-time engagement, higher viewer interaction, and opportunities for spontaneous and scheduled broadcasts.
  • Setting up a live event: To set up a live event on LinkedIn, create and manage the event by scheduling it, promoting it to maximize attendance, and encouraging interaction during the livestream.

Choosing a Streaming Tool

When it comes to choosing a streaming tool for your LinkedIn Live events, there are several options available. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a streaming tool:

• Ease of Use: Look for a tool that is user-friendly and easy to navigate, even if you’re not particularly tech-savvy. A straightforward interface can save you time and reduce the learning curve.
• Integration with LinkedIn: Ensure the tool integrates seamlessly with LinkedIn, allowing you to stream directly to your LinkedIn Page or Event. This integration is crucial for a smooth streaming experience.
• Customization Options: Consider a tool that offers customization options, such as branding and overlays. These features can help you create a professional-looking stream that aligns with your brand’s identity.
• Analytics and Reporting: Choose a tool that provides robust analytics and reporting features. These insights will allow you to track your stream’s performance and engagement, helping you refine your strategy over time.
• Cost: Evaluate the cost of the tool and whether it fits within your budget. While some tools offer advanced features, it’s important to balance functionality with affordability.

Some popular streaming tools for LinkedIn Live include:

• Restream: A versatile tool that allows you to stream to multiple platforms simultaneously, including LinkedIn. It’s known for its ease of use and wide range of features.
• Socialive: This tool offers advanced features such as customization options and detailed analytics, making it ideal for creating professional-looking streams.
• StreamYard: Another popular option, StreamYard allows you to stream to multiple platforms, including LinkedIn. It offers customization options and analytics, making it a comprehensive choice for live streaming.

Ways to Use LinkedIn Live

Answer Questions

The interactive nature of LinkedIn Live distinctly sets it apart from other social media platforms. Engaging in live Q&A sessions doesn’t just offer a platform to address questions—it becomes an arena where businesses or professionals can showcase their expertise and thought leadership in real time.

By delving deep into frequently asked industry-specific questions, it reinforces your position as an industry expert, while also offering transparency and immediacy to your audience, deepening trust and relationships.

Showcase Special Events

Being present at or orchestrating major industry events is a testament to your brand’s significance. Leveraging LinkedIn Live amplifies the resonance of these occasions.

Whether you’re sharing keynote speeches, behind-the-scenes access, or panel discussions, a LinkedIn Live broadcast invites your network to virtually be by your side, experiencing the event’s atmosphere and insights. Engaging content tailored to the audience’s interests is crucial for maximizing the impact of your broadcast.

This not only extends the event’s accessibility but creates a foundation for attendees to consider firsthand participation in subsequent events you host or endorse.

Introduce Team Members

In an era where authenticity reigns supreme, introducing the human element of your brand is more pivotal than ever. Showcasing team members, whether through casual chats or structured profiles, offers a nuanced perspective of your brand’s DNA.

It’s not just about roles and responsibilities; it’s about journeys, experiences, and stories that mold the collective brand ethos. Engaging your LinkedIn audience with these narratives bridges the gap between corporate entities and genuine human connections, fortifying trust and fostering a sense of community.

Show Off Workplace Culture

A company is much more than its products or services—it’s a melting pot of values, traditions, and ethos. LinkedIn Live can serve as a candid lens, giving viewers direct access to the heart of your operations.

Showcasing everything from brainstorming sessions and team-building exercises to festive celebrations or unique office traditions can provide a comprehensive view of your organization’s essence.

Such transparent glimpses can not only attract prospective talent but can resonate with clients and partners, reinforcing alignment of values.

Announce New Products or Services at LinkedIn Live Events

The excitement of launching a new product or service is palpable, and there’s no better way to intensify this than through the immediacy of livestreaming. Teasing the audience with glimpses, countdowns, and hints leading up to the main reveal can create a palpable atmosphere of anticipation.

Hosting a live launch ensures that your audience is not just passive viewers, but active participants, offering instant feedback, asking real-time questions, and being part of the launch’s success narrative.

Demonstrate Products or Services

In an era where customers value transparency and clarity, showcasing your product or service in real time can be immensely impactful. This interactive demonstration offers viewers a chance to visualize the product’s utility, its features, and benefits.

The live format also opens a direct channel for immediate feedback and questions, offering a unique blend of product demo and customer support, especially invaluable for intricate software tools or multifaceted products.

It’s almost like hosting a workshop where participants can get hands-on understanding, while remotely seated.

Discuss Industry Issues

In the ever-evolving professional landscape, staying updated on industry trends and debates is paramount. Leveraging LinkedIn Live to discuss these hot topics not only positions you as an informed voice but also nurtures a community of like-minded professionals.

By dissecting, debating, and deliberating over industry-specific issues, you’re essentially hosting a dynamic, digital roundtable. It enhances your brand’s reputation as a thought leader and opens avenues for collaborations and partnerships.

Interview Industry Experts

Hosting a tête-à-tête with industry stalwarts can be a goldmine of insights and knowledge. The beauty of a livestreamed interview is the spontaneity and authenticity it brings. Your audience gets a dual advantage: absorbing expertise from the guest and simultaneously interacting with them.

It’s almost like hosting a live podcast or a webinar. Such sessions can be further enriched by incorporating audience questions or running polls, making it a two-way engagement and exponentially increasing the chances of the content being shared across networks.

Share Tips or Tutorials

In the age of ‘how-to’ content, tutorials hold a significant place in a user’s online consumption pattern. On LinkedIn, where the primary audience is professionals, sharing industry-specific tutorials can be a game-changer.

Whether it’s elucidating the nuances of a new software integration, guiding through the labyrinth of digital advertising dashboards, or offering tips on curating compelling presentations, such sessions provide tangible value.

They’re not just videos; they’re skill-enhancement sessions which attendees can directly apply in their professional lives.

Start Recurring Series

Consistency is key in content creation. Launching a recurring series on LinkedIn Live is akin to hosting a weekly or monthly digital rendezvous. Whether it’s ‘Tech Tuesdays’ or ‘Finance Fridays,’ having a fixed schedule ensures your audience knows when to tune in.

This also aids in building a dedicated viewer base, akin to a TV show’s fanbase. However, the onus is on the content creator to maintain the series’ quality and relevance.

Continuous promotion, reminders, and teasers in the run-up to each episode can make all the difference, ensuring the series remains an anticipated event in your audience’s calendar.

Measuring Success and Analytics

To measure the success of your LinkedIn Live events, it’s essential to track your analytics and adjust your strategy accordingly. Here are some metrics to consider:

• Viewership: Track the number of viewers who watched your live stream, including the number of unique viewers and the total watch time. This data helps you understand the reach and popularity of your content.
• Engagement: Monitor the number of likes, comments, and shares your live stream received. Additionally, track the number of questions and comments asked during the stream to gauge audience interaction.
• Conversion Rates: Track the number of leads generated or conversions made as a result of your live stream. This metric is crucial for understanding the direct impact of your live events on your business goals.
• Audience Demographics: Analyze the demographics of your audience, including their job title, industry, and location. This information can help you tailor your content to better meet the needs and interests of your viewers.

LinkedIn provides analytics and reporting features for LinkedIn Live events, including:

• Event Analytics: Track the performance of your live stream, including viewership, engagement, and conversion rates. These insights can help you identify what’s working and what needs improvement.
• Audience Insights: Analyze the demographics of your audience and track their engagement with your content. This data can help you refine your targeting and content strategy.
• Lead Generation: Track the number of leads generated as a result of your live stream. Understanding this metric can help you measure the ROI of your LinkedIn Live events.

By tracking your analytics and adjusting your strategy accordingly, you can optimize your LinkedIn Live events to achieve your goals and maximize your ROI.

10 Effective Strategies for LinkedIn Live Engagement

For those looking to maximize the potential of LinkedIn Live, here’s a breakdown of 10 strategies you can employ, along with their descriptions and benefits:

Image: Depositphotos.com

This article, "What is LinkedIn Live and How Can It Help Your Company?" was first published on Small Business Trends

Understanding common social media marketing mistakes is not just beneficial; it’s essential in a world where digital interactions often form the backbone of customer relationships.

The Importance of Avoiding Social Media Marketing Mistakes

Social media accounts marketing is a dynamic and powerful tool but also a double-edged sword. Mistakes in this arena can tarnish a brand’s reputation and cripple its online effectiveness. When a business falters on social media, it risks losing engagement, diminishing its reach, and eroding the hard-earned trust of its customers. Therefore, recognizing and steering clear of these pitfalls is vital for maintaining a robust and positive online presence.

To excel in social media marketing and avoid pitfalls, learning about effective social media strategies is crucial for maintaining a strong and positive online presence.

Social Media Marketing Mistakes to Avoid

In the maze of social media platform marketing, it’s easy to take a wrong turn. Developing a solid strategy is key. For insights on how to find the sweet spot for social media marketing, it’s essential to research and understand the unique dynamics of each platform. Let’s explore 16 common social media mistakes that brands make and how to sidestep them effectively.

Lack of a Defined Social Media Marketing Strategy

Operating without a clear and structured marketing strategy is akin to sailing without a compass. Without a strategy, marketing efforts tend to be inconsistent and ineffective, lacking direction and purpose. A scattergun approach can lead to mixed messages, confusing your audience and diluting your brand’s impact.

How to avoid it:

• Define clear goals and objectives for your social media accounts.
• Understand your target audience and tailor your strategy to their needs and preferences.
• Plan your content calendar meticulously, aligning it with your overall marketing and business goals.

Ignoring the Analytics of Social Media Platforms

Analytics provided by social media platforms is a goldmine of insights into audience behavior and preferences. Neglecting this data is a common mistake that leads to misguided and suboptimal marketing efforts. Without leveraging analytics, you’re essentially flying blind, unable to fine-tune your strategy based on actual user engagement. For those looking to deepen their understanding, enrolling in social media marketing courses can provide comprehensive knowledge and skills.

How to avoid it:

• Regularly review and analyze the performance metrics of your posts.
• Use these insights to understand what content resonates with your audience.
• Adjust your strategy based on these analytics to improve engagement and reach.

Overlooking the Specifics of Each Social Media Channel

Each social media platform has its unique quirks and audience expectations. Employing a one-size-fits-all approach to content across different platforms is a mistake that can lead to subpar engagement. What works on Instagram might not resonate on LinkedIn, and vice versa.

How to avoid it:

• Understand the unique characteristics and audience demographics of each platform.
• Tailor your content to suit the format and tone appropriate for each channel.
• Experiment with different types of content to see what performs best on each platform.

Inconsistent Engagement in Social Media Marketing Efforts

The crux of social media is engagement, and inconsistency in this aspect can severely hamper relationship-building with your audience. Sporadic interactions or responses give the impression of a disinterested or disorganized brand, leading to a weakened connection with your followers.

How to avoid it:

• Set a regular schedule for posting and responding to comments and messages.
• Encourage dialogue through polls, questions, and interactive content.
• Show your brand’s personality through genuine and timely interactions.

Over-Promotional Content in Social Media Marketing

While promoting products or services is a key aspect of social marketing, overdoing it can turn your audience off. Excessive promotion can make your content feel like spam, leading to disengagement and unfollows.

How to avoid it:

• Follow the 80/20 rule: 80% informative, entertaining, and engaging content, and 20% promotional.
• Tell stories that resonate with your audience, not just sales pitches.
• Engage with trending topics and provide value beyond just selling your products.

Neglecting the Power of Visual Content on Social Media

In the visually-driven world of social media, neglecting the use of compelling visual content is a significant oversight. Images and videos are powerful tools for capturing attention and enhancing message retention.

How to avoid it:

• Incorporate high-quality images, infographics, and videos in your posts.
• Tailor visual content to align with your brand identity and message.
• Utilize visual storytelling to engage and connect with your audience.

Failing to Adapt to Social Media Trends

Social media is constantly changing, and not staying current with its trends can cause your brand to seem disconnected. Overlooking trending topics, formats, or features can lead to content that feels outdated and less engaging, which highlights the importance of avoiding common social media marketing mistakes.

How to avoid it:

• Stay informed about the latest trends and features on each platform.
• Experiment with new content formats like stories, reels, or live videos.
• Adapt your strategy to include trending topics relevant to your brand.

Poor Handling of Negative Comments on Social Media

Negative and biased comments are inevitable, but mishandling them can exacerbate the situation. Ignoring or responding inappropriately can damage your brand’s reputation and customer trust.

How to avoid it:

• Monitor your social media platforms for negative feedback.
• Respond promptly and professionally, showing a willingness to resolve issues.
• Use negative comments as an opportunity to improve and showcase your customer service.

Misunderstanding Your Target Audience

Not having a clear understanding of your target audience leads to content that doesn’t resonate, resulting in poor engagement and wasted efforts.

How to avoid it:

• Conduct thorough research to understand your audience’s preferences and interests.
• Tailor your content strategy to align with your audience’s needs and desires.
• Regularly review your audience demographics and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Ineffective Use of Hashtags in Social Media Marketing

Hashtags can significantly increase the visibility and reach of your content, but misusing them – either through overuse, underuse, or irrelevance – can backfire.

How to avoid it:

• Use relevant and trending hashtags to enhance content discoverability.
• Avoid overstuffing posts with hashtags, which can appear spammy.
• Research hashtags specific to your industry and audience for maximum impact.

Overlooking the Integration of Social Media with Other Marketing Efforts

Treating social media marketing as a standalone strategy instead of an essential component of your overall marketing efforts can result in lost opportunities for synergy and greater impact.

How to avoid it:

• Ensure your social media efforts complement and align with other marketing channels.
• Integrate email marketing, content marketing, and other digital efforts with your social media strategy.
• Use consistent messaging and branding across all platforms for a unified presence.

Ignoring User Engagement on Social Media Posts

Focusing solely on posting content without engaging with users who interact with your posts can lead to a one-sided relationship, diminishing the sense of community and loyalty.

How to avoid it:

• Actively respond to and engage with comments, shares, and reactions on your posts.
• Foster a community feel by encouraging user-generated content and conversations.
• Recognize and appreciate your followers’ engagement to build stronger connections.

Inconsistency in Brand Voice Across Different Social Media Platforms

A fluctuating brand voice across different social media platforms can confuse your audience and weaken your brand identity.

How to avoid it:

• Develop a consistent brand voice that reflects your brand’s personality and values.
• Ensure this voice is maintained across all platforms, even while tailoring content to each channel’s specifics.
• Train your social media team to understand and use this voice effectively.

Mismanaging Your Facebook Page

Common mistakes in managing a Facebook page, such as inconsistent updates, low follower engagement, and failure to make use of the platform’s complete array of features, can greatly hinder your marketing efforts.

How to avoid it:

• Maintain a regular posting schedule and engage actively with your community.
• Utilize Facebook’s business tools like analytics, ad manager, and shopping features.
• Regularly update your page with relevant information and interactive content.

Not Utilizing Paid Social Media Advertising Effectively

While paid social media advertising offers great potential, poorly executed campaigns can result in wasted resources and minimal impact.

How to avoid it:

• Clearly define your advertising goals and target audience.
• Create compelling, targeted ads with clear calls to action.
• Regularly review and adjust your ad campaigns based on performance metrics.

Neglecting the Analysis of Competitor Social Media Strategies

Ignoring what your competitors are doing on social media means missing out on valuable insights and potential strategies that could be beneficial for your brand.

How to avoid it:

• Regularly monitor and analyze your competitors’ social media activities.
• Learn from their successes and mistakes to refine your own strategy.
• Stay innovative and distinct, but be open to adopting effective tactics.

Social Media Tips: Best Practices for a Social Media Marketing Campaign

To run a successful social media marketing campaign, it’s crucial to learn from common pitfalls. Here’s a consolidated guide to best practices:

1. Develop a Clear Strategy: Have a well-defined strategy with set goals and a thorough understanding of your target audience.
2. Leverage Analytics: Use analytics to understand audience behavior and adjust your strategy accordingly.
3. Tailor Content to Each Platform: Recognize the unique nature of each platform and customize your content.
4. Engage Consistently: Maintain regular and meaningful engagement with your audience to build strong relationships.
5. Balance Promotional Content: Follow the 80/20 rule to keep content engaging and not overly promotional.
6. Prioritize Visual Content: Use compelling visuals to enhance engagement and message retention.
7. Stay on Trend: Keep up with trends to keep your content fresh and engaging.
8. Manage Negative Feedback Effectively: Respond to negative opinions and comments professionally and promptly.
9. Understand Your Audience: Tailor your content and strategy to meet the preferences and interests of your audience.
10. Use Hashtags Wisely: Utilize relevant and trending hashtags appropriately.
11. Integrate with Other Marketing Efforts: Ensure social media efforts complement your overall marketing strategy.
12. Engage with Users: Actively engage with comments and feedback on your posts.
13. Maintain Consistent Brand Voice: Keep your brand voice consistent across all platforms.
14. Optimize Your Facebook Page: Consistently update and interact with your audience on Facebook by utilizing all the available tools.
15. Effectively Use Paid Advertising: Target your ads carefully with clear goals and calls to action.
16. Analyze Competitors: Learn from your competitors’ strategies to improve your own.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=cXKxcNW6I8g%3Fsi%3DIZDwETQonQRagvOn

FAQs: Social Media Marketing Mistakes

Which social media channels should a business concentrate on?

A business should focus on social media channels that best align with its intended audience and objectives. This varies based on the industry, product, and demographics of the audience. For B2C companies, platforms like Instagram and Facebook are often effective, while B2B businesses may find more success on LinkedIn and Twitter. It’s crucial to understand where your audience spends their time and tailor your strategy accordingly.

What can go wrong with social media marketing?

Numerous issues can arise in social media marketing: content that fails to connect with the target audience, irregular posting schedules, a lack of user engagement, an inability to adapt to the unique characteristics of each platform, and mishandling negative feedback. These social media marketing mistakes can result in decreased engagement, harm to the brand’s reputation, and ultimately, a decline in followers and potential customers.

What is the most common social media mistake to avoid?

The primary mistake to avoid in social media marketing campaigns is the lack of a clear and consistent strategy. When a solid strategy is missing, marketing efforts can become fragmented and unproductive. It is essential to establish defined goals, gain insights into your audience, and develop content that matches your brand’s voice and objectives. This foundation is key to steering clear of many typical social media marketing mistakes.

Image: Envato Elements, Depositphotos

This article, "Common Social Media Marketing Mistakes" was first published on Small Business Trends

This article will look at the top beauty influencers and why a beauty brand should consider partnering with a beauty influencer to boost their marketing efforts.

What Is a Beauty Influencer?

A beauty influencer is an individual who has established credibility in the beauty industry and has leveraged their online presence to influence others with their insights and opinions on beauty products, trends, and techniques. They play a significant role in the modern consumer’s decision-making process, acting as a bridge between brands and audiences.

Here’s a more detailed look at what defines a beauty influencer:

• Expertise in Beauty: Typically, they have extensive knowledge of beauty products, skincare routines, and makeup techniques, often supported by training or a background in cosmetology.
• Large Following: Beauty influencers often have a substantial following on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and other social media, where they share content, tutorials, reviews, and more.
• Content Creation: They create engaging and often educational content such as makeup tutorials, product unboxings, beauty hacks, and skincare routines that appeal to their audience.
• Product Promotion: They collaborate with beauty brands to promote various products, often receiving free products or paid partnerships for their endorsements.
• Trend Setting: Numerous top beauty influencers lead the way in beauty trends, showcasing and popularizing innovative styles, products, and techniques to their followers.
• Brand Collaboration: They often work closely with beauty brands, either in promoting their products or even creating co-branded products and lines.
• Trust and Authenticity: Followers often trust the opinions and recommendations of beauty influencers as they see them as authentic experts who share unbiased reviews and tutorials.
• Community Engagement: They engage with their followers by responding to comments, sharing personal stories, and creating a sense of community around shared beauty interests.
• Diverse Beauty Perspectives: Beauty influencers often contribute to a more inclusive and diverse representation of beauty by showcasing different skin tones, types, and personal styles.
• Economic Impact: Through their recommendations and endorsements, beauty influencers can have a significant economic impact on brands and the beauty industry as a whole.
• Moral and Ethical Influence: Certain top beauty influencers leverage their platforms to raise awareness about ethical issues within the industry, including the promotion of cruelty-free products and sustainable practices.

In conclusion, beauty influencers are not just individuals sharing makeup tips but multifaceted personalities who have a significant impact on the beauty industry. They guide trends, provide education, foster community, and can wield considerable influence over their followers’ purchasing decisions.

Why Your Brand Should Consider Partnering with a Beauty Influencer

There are many reasons why partnering with a top beauty influencer could be beneficial for a beauty brand in the long run. Some of the reasons to consider working with a beauty influencer are:

1. Significant reach: The reach of a beauty influencer is one of the most critical factors in determining their success. Beauty influencers with a large social media following can connect with more people with their messages, making it more likely that brands will have more powerful marketing strategies through strategic partnerships, such as making beauty influencers brand ambassadors or sponsoring product reviews.
2. High engagement: Engagement is also essential in determining beauty influencers’ success. Many of them have also successfully been able to launch their own brand due to their incredible reach and engagement. Beauty influencers who can engage with their followers and create meaningful relationships are more likely to have a lasting impact on beauty brands by working with them for influencer marketing efforts.
3. Meaningful brand impact: The overall impact of beauty influencers on the beauty industry is significant, and brands looking to build awareness and increase their presence should take that into consideration. Beauty influencers are able to share their knowledge and expertise with the masses, helping to shape public opinion and driving people to purchase certain beauty products and services if done well.
4. Incredible skills: Beauty influencers are renowned for their makeup skills, with many of them having a professional background, such as being a makeup artist. Brands partnering with beauty influencers can showcase their unique products in a creative way through amazing makeup tutorial videos, hair tutorials, and other sponsored content.
5. Credibility: Beauty bloggers are in a unique position where they wield considerable influence due to their professional expertise in makeup and beauty. By partnering with beauty influencers, brands are seen as credible and can use it as a way to build trust with audiences while marketing their products.

Evaluating Top Beauty Influencers for Effective Collaborations

In the beauty industry, partnering with the right influencers can have a significant impact on your brand’s reach and perception. When choosing beauty influencers for collaborations, consider the following key factors. Each factor is rated on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 is less critical and 5 is most critical. Here are the things we considered when compiling the following list.

1. Expertise and Authority in Beauty: The influencer’s knowledge and expertise in beauty topics are crucial for credible endorsements.
   • Importance Scale: 5/5
2. Audience Demographics and Reach: Assess the size and demographics of the influencer’s audience to ensure alignment with your target customer base.
   • Importance Scale: 5/5
3. Engagement Rate: High engagement rates (likes, comments, shares) indicate a strong, active relationship with the audience.
   • Importance Scale: 5/5
4. Content Quality and Aesthetic: The visual appeal and quality of the influencer’s content should resonate with your brand’s image.
   • Importance Scale: 4/5
5. Authenticity and Trustworthiness: Influencers who are authentic and truly believe in the products they promote can more effectively sway buying decisions.
   • Importance Scale: 5/5
6. Brand Alignment and Values: The influencer’s values and style should align with your brand to ensure a cohesive partnership.
   • Importance Scale: 4/5
7. Innovation and Creativity: Influencers who bring creativity and uniqueness to their content can offer fresh perspectives and campaign ideas.
   • Importance Scale: 3/5
8. Professionalism and Previous Collaborations: Review their track record with other brands for professionalism and effectiveness in partnerships.
   • Importance Scale: 4/5
9. Legal and Ethical Compliance: Adherence to legal standards in advertising and ethical practices is essential, especially in product endorsements.
   • Importance Scale: 5/5
10. Potential ROI and Impact on Sales: Consider the influencer’s ability to drive sales and provide a good return on investment.
    • Importance Scale: 4/5

Top Beauty Influencers

There are many beauty influencers who have built a considerable following on social media platforms by sharing makeup tips, skincare advice, hair tutorials, and other beauty trends. We’ve highlighted some of the top beauty influencer profiles across different platforms to help you find the right partner for your brand.

Safiya Nygaard

Safita Nygaard has a successful YouTube channel and Instagram feed, sharing beauty tips, advice, and various beauty tutorial examples for different kinds of products. Her content also includes fashion tips, vintage shopping hauls, and other types of content.

Huda Kattan

Huda Kattan is a professional makeup artist, beauty blogger, and founder of the wildly successful beauty company Huda Beauty, which has launched a popular eyeshadow palette, lipsticks, and other products. Huda Kattan is an amazing example of a beauty influencer who has been able to run a successful business and carve a name for herself within the highly competitive beauty space.

Michelle Phan

Michelle Phan is a top beauty influencer with a large following across social media channels, especially YouTube. Michelle Phan is known for her stunning makeup, detailed tutorials, beauty reviews, and other content and has been a beauty influencer for many years.

Holly Willoughby

Holly Willoughby began her career as a TV presenter but has since transitioned into a beauty blogger, where she shares product reviews, makeup tips, and various beauty-related content on her Instagram. Additionally, she serves as a brand ambassador for prominent beauty brands like Garnier.

Tati Westbrook

Tati Westbrook is another top beauty influencer and a bona fide beauty guru. Tati’s YouTube channel is filled with fantastic beauty content such as makeup hacks, and beauty hacks, and she is a well-known makeup influencer that has successfully built up her own brand.

JaclynHill1

Jaclyn Hill is a professional makeup artist who shares lifestyle videos, makeup tutorials, makeup trends, and other types of content on both YouTube and Instagram. She is another makeup influencer that has successfully launched her own beauty business through her social media presence. She also shares simple beauty routines and other types of beauty vlogs.

Jackie Aina

Makeup influencers like Jackie Aina have built a following by sharing beauty opinions and shining a light on traditional beauty standards within the beauty industry. Jackie Aina’s content is about empowering women to embrace their natural beauty, and she also shares product reviews as a beauty guru.

Laura Lee

Laura Lee is one of the top makeup influencers out there and is known for her makeup brand, Laura Lee Los Angeles. Laura Lee started with a beauty blog and has since built up her reputation in the beauty world before entering the cosmetics industry, including partnerships with brands like MAC Cosmetics. She now has her own brand while still maintaining a popular YouTube channel where she regularly shares content.

Miss Alex

Miss Alex is a fashion blogger and shares fashion advice, hacks, and insight into the fashion industry. Miss Alex’s content is all about helping others find their personal style while on a budget. Miss Alex also shares other types of beauty and lifestyle content as part of her channel.

Kayley Melissa

Kayley Melissa has a successful YouTube channel where she shares hair-related content, including tutorials, advice, information, and other types of content. As a beauty vlogger, Kayley Melissa has an incredibly bubbly personality that followers love. Her content is all about helping women style their in interesting ways, and she also shares product reviews.

Nyane Lebajoam

Nyane Lebajoam is recognized as one of the top beauty influencers, celebrated for her distinctive appearance and exceptional style. She has built a large following by documenting her travels and various adventures through her vlogs, blogs, and other beauty-related content.

More Top Influencers Who Partner with Beauty Brands

The beauty industry has seen incredible growth over the last few years, especially as more beauty influencers have entered the fore through their content and business. Many beauty gurus are on YouTube and Instagram and can reach a broad audience across different platforms.

We will explore additional beauty influencers worth your attention, thanks to their significant social media presence and substantial followings.

Em Ford

Em Ford is a beauty blogger known for promoting skin positivity. She has gained popularity over the years for sharing makeup tips and tutorials for acne, product reviews, and other beauty content.

Rose Gallagher

Rose Gallagher is a British makeup artist who creates content that helps women master makeup. Her content is all about sharing makeup techniques, tutorials, and other content related to beauty and skin. She also shares makeup advice for skin conditions such as rosacea.

Nam Vo

Nam Vo is a professional makeup artist and one of the top makeup influencers out there. She is famous for her dewy skin makeup looks, which has been dubbed the Nam Vo Glow, and she has partnered with big cosmetic brands such as Marc Jacobs Beauty. Her content includes tutorials to achieve the ‘dewy dumpling’ highlighter look that she originated.

James Charles

James Charles is a makeup artist and one of the top beauty influencers out there. James Charles has amassed a massive following. He is known for his unique and distinctive makeup looks, experimental tutorials, product reviews, and educational content around beauty and makeup.

Can a Self Taught Makeup Artist Become a Beauty Influencer?

Yes, a self-taught makeup artist can become a beauty influencer. Many beauty influencers started out that way and have successfully built businesses and brands based on their signature looks. Self-taught makeup artists can become beauty influencers by sharing content such as beauty and makeup tutorials.

How Much Money Do Beauty Influencers Make?

The amount of money beauty influencers make will depend on their partnerships, social media content, and any business ventures they undertake. The average beauty influencer earns anywhere from $10,000 to $200,000 or more.

What Is the Best Platform for Beauty Influencers?

The best platform for beauty influencers is YouTube. Many beauty gurus have started by creating digital content, such as makeup videos, on platforms like YouTube and gained a significant following, mainly through tutorial videos.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:

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• How Much Do Influencers Make Per Post?
• Top Influencers

Image: Envato Elements

This article, "Meet the Top Beauty Influencers Inspiring Trends Worldwide" was first published on Small Business Trends

Step-by-Step Guide for Shipping on Facebook Marketplace

Wondering how does shipping work on Facebook Marketplace? Whether you’re shipping across the country or just down the street, this step-by-step guide will make the process easy. Selling on Marketplace can be a great way to declutter your home and make some extra cash, so let’s get started!

Set-Up

Let’s get into the first few steps of shipping on the Facebook Marketplace…

Step 1: Find out What Item You Want to Sell.

Before you can even consider shipping an item, you first need something to sell! You might be surprised by the variety of items that people are willing to buy on Facebook Marketplace. Take a moment to look around your home for any items you no longer need or use, and think about listing them.

Step 2: Log into Facebook and Click on Facebook “Marketplace.”

After logging into your account, click on the Facebook “Marketplace” icon either inside the mobile app or on your computer.

Step 3: Create your Item Listing by Choosing “Item for Sale.”

Next, you’ll want to create the listings for your Facebook Marketplace items. It looks a bit different on mobile and desktop, so check out the screenshots above if you’re not sure where to find the sell button.

Tips for Listing on Facebook Marketplace

Let’s take a brief look at four tips you should consider when selling on the Facebook Marketplace…

• Make sure your item is in good condition. Before you even open the Facebook app or site, make sure your item is in good condition prior to listing it for sale. This will help ensure that you get a good price for the item and that the buyer is happy with their purchase.
• Take clear, well-lit photos of your item. This will help potential buyers see what they’re purchasing and make a decision about whether or not to buy it. Avoid blurry photos at all costs if you want to make more money.
• Provide a detailed listing. The more information you provide, the better. Be sure to include things like the item’s condition, size, color, etc.
• Price your item reasonably. Take a look at similar items that have sold recently on Marketplace and price your item accordingly. You don’t want to overprice or underprice your item, as this could deter potential buyers.

Step 4: Add the Delivery Option to Your Listing.

To add Facebook Marketplace shipping options to your listing, click on the little truck icon at the top right of your screen.

Step 5: Fill in the Steps at the Prompt.

To set up the shipping option on your FB Marketplace listing, you may need to include your shipping information and bank account.

Step 6: Choose the Shipping Option You’ll Use.

1. Your own shipping method.
2. Prepaid shipping labels.

You will have two different shipping options which will help determine the shipping cost for your sold items. Your delivery method can include your own shipping method or prepaid shipping labels.

How to Use Your Own Shipping Method

To create your own shipping label, click on the button that says “Create shipping label.” This will allow you to ship your sold items via the shipping company of your choice.

How to Use Prepaid Shipping Labels

To use a USPS or UPS prepaid shipping label, select the shipping carrier of your choice from the dropdown. You’ll notice there will be a different price for each respective prepaid shipping label. As of right now, these are the only two carriers available to create a Facebook Marketplace shipping label, and probably the best way to go for most sellers.

Packing & Shipping

Next, let’s discuss packing and shipping items you’ve sold on the Facebook Marketplace.

Step 7: Package the Item.

Next, in the shipping process, you’ll want to properly package the items sold on the Facebook Marketplace. Make sure the items are well-protected so they don’t get damaged in transit. For things like clothes, you can simply put them in a plastic bag. However, for more fragile items, you might want to use bubble wrap or packing peanuts.

Step 8: Print the Shipping Label.

Now is the time to print your shipping label. This will vary depending on if you’re using your own shipping method or prepaid shipping labels.

Step 9: Provide Tracking Information

Once you’ve shipped the item, be sure to provide the tracking information to the buyer. You can share the tracking number with the buyer on Facebook itself.

Step 10: Mark the Item as “Shipped.”

Lastly, make sure to mark the item as “shipped” on the Marketplace. This crucial step in the process helps ensure that buyers receive their items promptly.

Step 11: Facebook Pays You.

Once you’ve sold and shipped an item from the Facebook Marketplace, you will receive your money minus the selling fee.

Common Facebook Marketplace Shipping Mistakes to Avoid When Selling Online

Not knowing about items that are ineligible for Purchase Protection.

Purchase protection is a great feature that Facebook offers to protect buyers and sellers in the Marketplace. However, there are certain items that are not covered by purchase protection. It’s important to know what these items are before you list them for sale on the Marketplace.

Not weighing the item before packaging it.

This seems like a small detail, but it’s actually very important. The shipping cost will be based on the weight of the item, so if you don’t know the weight of the item, you could end up overcharging or undercharging the buyer.

Not testing out free or reduced shipping.

Testing free or reduced shipping options for items sold in the Marketplace can significantly reduce your shipping expenses. If you don’t provide these shipping alternatives, you may discourage potential buyers from making a purchase.

Not being upfront about your item’s condition.

Being honest about the condition of your item is important. If you’re not upfront about any damage or wear and tear, the buyer could be disappointed when they receive the item. This could lead to negative feedback or even a return.

Facebook Marketplace FAQ

What does it cost to sell your items on Facebook Marketplace?

Facebook charges sellers a fee of just 5% per shipment or a flat fee of only $0.40 for any shipments that are $8.00 or less.

Why would an item not be approved on Facebook Marketplace?

An item may be disapproved on Facebook Marketplace if it fails to comply with the company’s established guidelines. These guidelines encompass a range of criteria, including prohibited items and content that is deemed inappropriate or offensive.

How do you obtain seller badges on Facebook Marketplace?

To earn seller badges, sellers must satisfy specific criteria associated with each badge. For instance, to qualify for the “Active Local Seller” badge, a seller needs to maintain an average rating of four stars or higher, create at least five active local listings within a 30-day period, and respond to messages from their listings within three hours or less for at least 80% of their message threads.

Can you advertise your item on Facebook Marketplace?

Yes, you can enhance your Marketplace listing to attract a larger audience of potential buyers. When you do this, your listing becomes a Facebook ad, increasing its visibility to a wider range of people. This approach is an effective way to sell your item quickly and efficiently.

Image: Depositphotos

This article, "How Does Shipping Work on Facebook Marketplace?" was first published on Small Business Trends

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This article, "Maximize Your Reach with WhatsApp for Business: A Guide for Success" was first published on Small Business Trends

Looking for inspirational sports quotes? Many of the greatest inspirational quotes that can inspire entrepreneurs and business owners to persevere in the pursuit of their dreams come from successful sports people.

From legendary baseball, basketball and soccer players and coaches to Olympic gold medalists and other sporting superstars, there is so much inspiration to be found in the words of these great sports men and women.

Here is an extensive selection of the most inspirational and motivational sports quotes provided for us by so many great sports stars over the years, grouped loosely together in similarly themed categories so you can quickly find the exact kind of motivation you need.

Inspire Your Team to Success with These Sports Quotes

Sports Quotes About Teamwork

A lot of business success revolves around good teamwork. Working well together with each person playing their part to drive the business towards its goals can be the difference between establishing a successful business or not.

There are many different elements that go into making a successful team, such as good communication to ensure everyone understands everything they need to. The most important thing though is just making sure everyone is pulling in the same direction.

To motivate your team to work well together, here are 11 team-inspiring quotes from some sporting legends.

• Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships. ~ Michael Jordan (Basketball)

• The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don’t play together, the club won’t be worth a dime. ~ Babe Ruth (Baseball)

• People have similar goals: health, happiness and an opportunity to provide for their families. ~ Steve Kerr (Basketball)

• Being a good teammate isn’t about recognition. I do it because it makes me whole and complete. ~ Dwyane Wade (Basketball)

Each Person Holds so Much Power within Themselves…

• Each person holds so much power within themselves. Sometimes they just need a little nudge; direction, support, coaching. ~ Pete Carroll (Football)

• Building a baseball team is like building a house. You look for the best architects, the best builders, and then you let them do their jobs. ~ Pat Gillick (Baseball)

• If a team wants to intimidate you physically and you let them, they’ve won. ~ Mia Hamm (Soccer)

• One man can be a crucial ingredient on a team, but one man cannot make a team. ~ Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (Basketball)

• Most talented players don’t always succeed. Some don’t even make the team. It’s more what’s inside. ~ Brett Favre (Football)

• You find that you have peace of mind and can enjoy yourself, get more sleep, and rest when you know that it was a one hundred percent effort that you gave, win or lose. ~ Gordie Howe (Ice Hockey)

• I don’t believe in team motivation. I believe in getting a team prepared so it knows it will have the necessary confidence when it steps on the field and be prepared to play a good game. ~ Tom Landry (Football)

Sports Quotes About Goals

Ensuring each part of the team is working towards the same goal is also crucial for the success of a business. Individual goals may differ across the team in the short term, but everyone must be working toward the same goal in the long term.

Whether you are focused on your own individual goals or you are responsible for keeping the team on track for their collective targets, there is plenty of inspiration to be gained from sporting greats who all know exactly what it takes to set yourself a goal and then go for it.

Here are some great sport quotes about setting goals and making the most of your opportunities.

• Competing is a privilege. Make the most of the opportunity by pushing yourself to the limit of your abilities. ~ Tony LaRussa (Baseball)

• What keeps me going is goals. ~ Muhammad Ali (Boxing)

• To uncover your true potential, first find your own limits, then have the courage to blow past them. ~ Picabo Street (Skiing)

• No matter how good you get, you can always get better. That’s the exciting part. ~ Tiger Woods (Golf)

Every Day is a New Opportunity…

• Every day is a new opportunity. You can build on yesterday’s success or put its failures behind and start over again. That’s the way life is, with a new game every day, and that’s the way baseball is. ~ Bob Feller (Baseball)

• Set your goals high, and don’t stop till you get there. ~ Bo Jackson (Baseball)

• You are never really playing an opponent. You are playing yourself, your own highest standards, and when you reach your limits, that is real joy. ~ Arthur Ashe (Tennis)

• The mind is the limit. As long as the mind can envision the fact that you can do something, you can do it, as long as you really believe 100 percent. ~ Arnold Schwarzenegger (Bodybuilding)

• I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion’. ~ Muhammad Ali (Boxing)

• You can’t put a limit on anything. The more you dream, the farther you get. ~ Michael Phelps (Swimming)

• Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can. ~ Arthur Ashe (Tennis)

Sports Quotes About Leadership

Business owners and team leaders have extra responsibility as they must not only motivate themselves but those around them as well. They are responsible for keeping an eye on the big picture while each of the team members focus on their own individual duties.

A leader must also ensure the team is operating at full capacity by making sure each individual in the team is able to perform to their best ability. For many, such responsibility is too great a burden to bear, while others thrive with the added pressure of leading a team.

Here are some brilliant sports quotes from sports stars and great thinkers about what good leadership really means.

• The most important thing in coaching is communication. It’s not what you say as much as what they absorb. ~ Red Auerbach (Basketball)

• Individuals make the team. How they think and what they do is important to the team. It’s important who these people are. ~ Nick Saban (Football)

• Players don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care. ~ Pat Summitt (Basketball)

A Catcher Must Want to Catch…

• A catcher must want to catch. He must make up his mind that it isn’t the terrible job it is painted, and that he isn’t going to say every day, ‘Why, oh why with so many other positions in baseball did I take up this one’. ~ Bill Dickey (Baseball)

• Leadership, like coaching, is fighting for the hearts and souls of men and getting them to believe in you. ~ Eddie Robinson (Basketball)

• What keeps me going is not winning, but the quest for reaching potential in myself as a coach and my kids as divers. It’s the pursuit of excellence. ~ Ron O’Brien (Diving)

• You can motivate by fear, and you can motivate by reward. But both those methods are only temporary. The only lasting thing is self motivation. ~ Homer Rice (Football)

• Sports serve society by providing vivid examples of excellence. ~ George F. Will (Political Commentator)

• Only he who can see the invisible can do the impossible. ~ Frank L. Gaines (Basketball)

• Winning is not a sometime thing, it is an all the time thing. You don’t do things right once in a while. You do them right all the time. ~ Vince Lombardi (Football)

Sports Quotes About Perseverance

In business just as in sports, it is crucial to persevere through hard times. There will always be peaks and troughs so it is important to cultivate an attitude of determination that will keep you going when the going gets tough.

So whether it is a period of slow sales or a valuable deal that didn’t get closed, you can find a lot of inspiration in quotes from sports men and women from throughout history.

Here are a few examples of such quotes to help inspire you when you need inspiration the most.

• It’s not whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get up. ~ Vince Lombardi (Football)

• Most people give up just when they’re about to achieve success. They quit on the one yard line. They give up at the last minute of the game one foot from a winning touchdown. ~ Ross Perot (Business Magnate)

• When you’ve got something to prove, there’s nothing greater than a challenge. ~ Terry Bradshaw (Football)

Never Give Up, Never Give In…

• Never give up, never give in, and when the upper hand is ours, may we have the ability to handle the win with the dignity that we absorbed the loss. ~ Doug Williams (Football)

• The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in a person’s determination. ~ Tommy Lasorda (Baseball)

• Persistence can change failure into extraordinary achievement. ~ Marv Levy (Football)

• I’ve learned that something constructive comes from every defeat. ~ Tom Landry (Football)

• Most people never run far enough on their first wind to find out they’ve got a second. ~ William James (Philosopher)

• Champions keep playing until they get it right. ~ Billie Jean King (Tennis)

• Stubbornness usually is considered a negative; but I think that trait has been a positive for me. ~ Cal Ripken Jr. (Baseball)

• In life, there is no such thing as impossible; it’s always possible. ~ Venus Williams (Tennis)

Sports Quotes About Focus and Determination

Another aspect of sporting success that is applicable to business is the ability to focus. There are so many distractions around these days with so much social media constantly nagging for attention that it is easy to lose focus and fall behind schedule. But when there is an important task to be completed then it is crucial that we keep our focus on that task.

The way to do that is by practicing the process of refocusing on the task each time you get distracted. It can take time to train yourself into refocusing the moment you notice you have lost focus, but over time it can be turned into a natural and instinctive reaction.

To help steer your mind back on course, here are some excellent motivational sports quotes to remind us of the importance of paying attention to the moment.

• When you’re riding, only the race in which you’re riding is important. ~ Bill Shoemaker (Horse Racing)

• Always make a total effort, even when the odds are against you. ~ Arnold Palmer (Golf)

• Continuous effort — not strength or intelligence — is the key to unlocking our potential. ~ Liane Cardes (Author)

• The hardest skill to acquire in this sport is the one where you compete all out, give it all you have, and you are still getting beat no matter what you do. When you have the killer instinct to fight through that, it is very special. ~ Eddie Reese (Swimming and Diving)

My Motto Was Always to Keep Swinging…

• My motto was always to keep swinging. Whether I was in a slump or feeling badly or having trouble off the field, the only thing to do was keep swinging. ~ Hank Aaron (Baseball)

• Without self-discipline, success is impossible, period. ~ Lou Holtz (Football)

• Push yourself again and again. Don’t give an inch until the final buzzer sounds. ~ Larry Bird (Basketball)

• Do not let what you can not do interfere with what you can do. ~ John Wooden (Basketball)

• Gold medals aren’t really made of gold. They’re made of sweat, determination, and a hard-to-find alloy called guts. ~ Dan Gable (Wrestler and Olympian)

• There are only two options regarding commitment. You’re either IN or you’re OUT. There is no such thing as life in-between. ~ Pat Riley (Basketball)

Sports Quotes About Visualizing Success

Visualizing your success is a great way to keep your mind focused on the job so you are always moving towards your goals. When you are aware of the rewards of your work and the progress you are making, no matter how incremental, it serves as fuel for your fire and helps you look forward to every new day that you get to continue working towards your goals.

Of course, visualization is something many sports stars actively practice in order to help them perform at their maximum.

Whether it is basketball player visualizing his movements around the court or a soccer player visualizing a perfect strike of the ball, there are so many ways that visualization can help both sports and business people.

Here are some motivational sports quotes to help you make your vision of the future come true.

• The man who has no imagination has no wings. ~ Muhammad Ali (Boxing)

• An athlete cannot run with money in his pockets. He must run with hope in his heart and dreams in his head. ~ Emil Zatopek (Olympic Long Distance Runner)

• You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them. ~ Michael Jordan (Basketball)

• Talent is God given. Be humble. Fame is man-given. Be grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful. ~ John Wooden (Basketball)

I Don’t Plan On Being Disappointed…

• I don’t plan on being disappointed. We plan on being really good, and obviously, we plan on winning. ~ Gregg Troy (Swimming)

• I always felt that my greatest asset was not my physical ability, it was my mental ability. ~ Caitlyn Jenner (Olympic Decathlete)

• Victory is in having done your best. If you’ve done your best, you’ve won. ~ Billy Bowerman (Track and Field)

• The principle is competing against yourself. It’s about self-improvement, about being better than you were the day before. ~ Steve Young (Football)

• Don’t measure yourself by what you have accomplished, but by what you should have accomplished with your ability. ~ John Wooden (Basketball)

• Just be patient. Let the game come to you. Don’t rush. Be quick, but don’t hurry. ~ Earl Monroe (Basketball)

Sports Quotes About Hard Work

When the going is good, working hard is easy! But we all have moments where the motivation to put that extra effort in just doesn’t seem to be there. In moments like this, seeking inspiration from successful sports stars who have worked hard for their success can be just the motivation you need to spur yourself into action.

Here are 12 great sports quotes to inspire that hard-working attitude.

• Today, you have 100% of your life left. ~ Tom Landry (Football)

• There may be people that have more talent than you, but there’s no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do. ~ Derek Jeter (Baseball)

• The more difficult the victory, the greater the happiness in winning. ~ Pele (Soccer)

• You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. ~ Wayne Gretzky (Ice Hockey)

• If everything seems under control, you’re not going fast enough. ~ Mario Andretti (Racing)

A Champion is Someone Who Does Not Settle for that Day’s Practice…

• A champion is someone who does not settle for that day’s practice, that day’s competition, that day’s performance. They are always striving to be better. They don’t live in the past. ~ Briana Scurry (Soccer)

• If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you. ~ Fred DeVito (Fitness Guru)

• The key is not the will to win. Everybody has that. It is the will to prepare to win that is important. ~ Bobby Knight (Basketball)

• Today I will do what others won’t, so tomorrow I can accomplish what others can’t. ~ Jerry Rice (Football)

• You can’t get much done in life if you only work on the days when you feel good. ~ Jerry West (Basketball)

• The highest compliment that you can pay me is to say that I work hard every day, that I never dog it. ~ Wayne Gretzky (Ice Hockey)

• Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential, impossible is temporary, impossible is nothing. ~ Muhammad Ali (Boxing)

Sports Quotes About Business Success

Most quotes from sports people may have originally been about the very sport that they play, but the underlying sentiments they reveal can be applied to business ventures as well.

Whether it is ensuring that important tasks are completed on time or cultivating determination, sports are a mine of valuable inspiration. Here are ten more sporting quotes to inspire you to achieve great business success.

• Procrastination is one of the most common and deadliest of diseases and its toll on success and happiness is heavy. ~ Wayne Gretzky (Ice Hockey)

• In baseball and in business, there are three types of people. Those who make it happen, those who watch it happen, and those wonder what happened. ~ Tommy Lasorda (Baseball)

• You can’t let success diminish the desire to be a winner. There’s room for improvement in every sportsman. ~ Lionel Messi (Soccer)

Winning Takes Talent…

• Winning takes talent. To repeat takes character. ~ John Wooden (Basketball)

• Never allow the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game. ~ Babe Ruth (Baseball)

• What you lack in talent can be made up with desire, hustle, and giving 110 percent all the time. ~ Don Zimmer (Baseball)

• I never left the field saying I could have done more to get ready and that gives me piece of mind. ~ Peyton Manning (Football)

• Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it. ~ Michael Jordan (Basketball)

• Pain is temporary. It may last a minute, or an hour, or a day, or a year, but eventually it will subside and something else will take its place. If I quit, however, it lasts forever. ~ Lance Armstrong (Cycling)

• Some people say I have attitude, maybe I do, but I think you have to. You have to believe in yourself when no one else does. That makes you a winner right there. – Venus Williams (Tennis)

How to Use Inspirational Sports Quotes Elsewhere in Your Business

If you’d like to view more motivational quotes you can find them here in our motivational quotes image gallery where you can share them socially:

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This article, "Inspirational Sports Quotes to Inspire Your Team Towards Success" was first published on Small Business Trends

If you’d like to learn how to sell on Facebook Marketplace as a business, you’re in the right place. Garage sales are a great way for Facebook users to get rid of unwanted items and make some extra cash. However, for small business owners looking to sell on Facebook Marketplace, there are a few things you need to know.

This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step and show you how to sell on Facebook Marketplace and make the most of this powerful platform. Let’s jump in!

What are the Benefits of Using Facebook Marketplace for Businesses?

Facebook Marketplace offers a variety of features that make it an attractive option for businesses of all sizes. Here are five benefits of using Facebook Marketplace for businesses.

• Massive reach. Facebook has over 2 billion active users, which gives businesses a massive potential customer base. Trying to generate the same amount of traffic to your own website would be incredibly difficult and expensive.
• Easy to use. Facebook Marketplace is easy to use and navigate both for buyers and sellers. Setting up a listing is a simple process, and buyers can easily search for what they’re looking for.
• Highly targeted advertising. Facebook Marketplace allows businesses to target ads very precisely, which can lead to a significant increase in sales. You can create listings that target specific demographics, interests, and even locations.
• Lower fees. Facebook Marketplace isn’t charging seller fees on items marked as shipped for the remainder of 2022, so businesses will get to keep more of their profits. The regular seller fees are 5% per shipment. However, if your shipment is $8 or less, you’ll pay a flat fee of only $0.40.
• The ability to build trust and credibility. Because Facebook Marketplace is operated by a major and well-known company, it helps build trust and credibility with potential customers. This is especially important for small businesses that may not have an established online presence.

• READ MORE: You Can Now Buy Ads in Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace Categories

Categories on Facebook Marketplace are used to organize and categorize the items being sold on Facebook Marketplace.

This makes it easier for buyers to find what they are looking for and for sellers to list their items in an easy-to-find way. The main categories include:

• Vehicles
• Property Rentals
• Apparel
• Classifieds
• Electronics
• Entertainment
• Family
• Free Stuff
• Garden & Outdoor
• Hobbies
• Home Goods
• Home Improvement Supplies
• Home Sales
• Musical Instruments
• Office Supplies
• Pet Supplies
• Sporting Goods
• Toys & Games

How to Set Up Your Business’s Facebook Marketplace

The setup process to begin selling on Facebook Marketplace is simple, and all you need is a Facebook page and an online store. Follow the four steps below to get started:

Step 1: Make Sure Your Facebook Business Page and Shop are Set Up

Before you can sell on Facebook Marketplace as a business, you will need to set up your Facebook Shop and your Facebook Business Page, so be sure to get that out of the way.

Facebook Shops and Pages are easy to set up. So if you need to, set these up now so you can begin using Facebook Marketplace to sell online.

Step 2: Enable Shopping Checkout Feature

To enable the Shopping Checkout Feature, you’ll need to have an active shop as well as a commerce account. You have three options when choosing your checkout method. You can have buyers checkout on Facebook and Instagram, through your own site, or through Facebook messenger.

To select your checkout method, you’ll need to go to the Commerce Manager, then click on your shop name. Click Settings in the menu found on the left side of the screen, then click Checkout Method. Choose your desired checkout method, follow any on-screen instructions, then click Confirm.

Step 3: Add Facebook Marketplace as a Sales Channel for Your Facebook Shop

To add Facebook Marketplace as a sales channel, you’ll need to go to the Commerce Manager and click on your shop name. Next, click on Settings, which you’ll find in the left-hand menu. Then click on Business Assets and select the Enable Marketplace option.

Step 4: Advertise Your Store and its Items on Facebook Marketplace

To start selling on Facebook Marketplace, you’ll need to advertise your store and its items. The good news is that there are a variety of ways to do this, so you can choose the method that makes the most sense for your business.

You can create advertisements for your products or services and specifically target those who are likely to be interested in what you’re offering. Additionally, you can create listings for each of your products or services on Facebook Marketplace. These listings will show up in the Marketplace tab on Facebook, making it easier for potential customers to discover them.

Finally, consider sharing your products or services in relevant Facebook buy and sell groups. These groups provide an excellent opportunity to connect with a new audience and showcase your items to potential customers who might not yet know about your business.

Mobile Instructions for Setting up Facebook Marketplace with the Facebook App

Setting up a marketplace listing for your online store on mobile is just as easy as it is on desktop. Here are the six simple steps for doing so:

Step 1: Open the Facebook app

Your first step is to open Facebook’s app on your mobile device and either sign up for a new account or log in to your existing one.

Step 2: Tap the Marketplace icon

Once you’re logged in, tap the Marketplace icon, which looks like a little shopfront. This will bring you to the Marketplace home screen.

Step 3: Click the Sell button

On the Marketplace home screen, you will see a button that says Sell. Tap this button to begin the process of creating your listing.

Step 4: Choose Items under Create New Listing

When you tap Sell, you will be given a few options for what kind of listing you would like to create. If you’re selling physical goods, choose Items under Create New Listing.

Step 5: Add Your Item Information

After deciding to list an item, you will be asked to provide details about the item you are selling. This includes the item’s name, description, price, and photos.

Be sure to fill out all of this information as accurately and thoroughly as possible, as this will help you attract buyers.

Step 6: Publish Your Listing

Once you’ve added all of the necessary information about your item, it’s time to publish your listing. To do this, simply tap the Publish button at the bottom of the screen. Your listing will now be live on Facebook Marketplace!

Key Tips for Selling on Facebook Marketplace

It’s no secret that the art of selling has changed dramatically in recent years. With the advent of online marketplaces such as Facebook Marketplace, buyers and sellers can connect with each other more easily than ever before.

However, achieving success in this new environment demands a different skill set compared to what was needed in the past.

Here are five advanced selling tips for creating an effective marketplace listing you can use to sell items like a pro:

• Use high-quality images. To sell products on Facebook Marketplace, you need to use high-quality images that show off your products in the best light possible. This means using professional photos if possible and taking the time to edit them so that they look their best.
• Craft a compelling title and description. These elements are crucial for attracting potential buyers to your listing, so ensure they are clear, concise, and precise. Incorporate keyword-rich language that effectively conveys your product and its features.
• Set competitive prices for your items. To successfully sell your items, it’s essential to price them competitively. This involves conducting research to understand the selling prices of similar products on other marketplace platforms.
• Provide discounts and special promotions. Shoppers appreciate a great deal, so make sure to offer discounts and special promotions whenever you can. This could range from a percentage off the price to offering free shipping.
• Deliver exceptional customer service. After completing a sale, it’s crucial to offer outstanding customer service to your buyer. This involves being attentive to their questions and concerns, responding promptly, and exceeding expectations to ensure that buyers are satisfied with their purchases.

What are the Best Practices for Selling on Facebook Marketplace?

As a seller, it is important to remember the Facebook Marketplace rules and best practices.

All listings must include a full and clear description of the item being sold and must be priced in US dollars.

Listings cannot contain offensive or inappropriate content, and sellers are responsible for shipping their own items.

How Should Businesses Respond to Inquiries from Interested Buyers on Facebook Marketplace?

When a business gets inquiries from potential buyers on Facebook Marketplace, the most effective way to respond is by using the Facebook Messenger app.

This allows for a private conversation between the buyer and seller that can be easily monitored.

In addition, responding through Facebook’s messenger app allows both parties to have access to important documents, such as invoices and order information.

Image: Depositphotos

This article, "How to Sell on Facebook Marketplace: A Guide for Businesses" was first published on Small Business Trends

At first glance, TikTok and small businesses may not appear to be a perfect pairing. After all, the widely-used video app primarily caters to Gen Z users and their viral trends. However, for small business owners, establishing a TikTok account is becoming increasingly important, much like enhancing their presence on other social media platforms.

Amazing Content Ideas for TikTok

If used efficiently, TikTok can help businesses reach their audience.

Here are some TikTok video ideas that can come in handy for businesses looking to post videos on this social media platform.

Hashtag Challenge

There are tons of hashtag challenges already circulating on TikTok. This occurs when a user challenges others to make and post a specific type of content and then tag them using a dedicated hashtag.

A lot of current challenges have to do with dance routines or lip-syncing. Brands can participate in existing challenges or create their own branded hashtag. The whole point of leveraging videos based on trending hashtags is to raise brand awareness. That’s why focusing on brand hashtag is a good idea for businesses.

How-to Videos

Saru Saadeh, Founder & CEO of marketing technology company Iron Roots said in a phone interview with Small Business Trends, “A lot of brands offer tutorials or how-to’s that are related to what they offer in some way. This provides value upfront and keeps users engaged.”

For instance, a company that offers fabric or craft supplies might produce a visual DIY project featuring their products. Similarly, a food company could highlight a recipe.

Song Parodies

Music-centric videos are popular on TikTok. You can make videos that are purely for entertainment. Or you might change the words to make them relevant to your brand.

Team Introductions

Saadeh says, “We’ve worked with a client on a series of ‘day in the life of’ content. They simply went around to different people from the team and showed what they did during the day-to-day small business operations. It really brings the company to a human level.”

• READ MORE: TikTok influencer marketing

Product Demonstrations

Show customers how your product functions. For instance, a furniture company might illustrate the simplicity of assembly, while a gaming company could showcase their product in use.

Case Studies

Saadeh explains, “Say you’re a service-based business like a marketing firm. You can say ‘here’s what we’ve done for the company’ and offer a case study style success story.”

Before and After Videos

This type of video would showcase a transformation based on your product or service. For example, a makeup company could showcase a quick makeover using its products.

Process Videos

Saadeh suggests, “Show the process of what goes on behind the scenes. What does your company do to produce the great products or services you offer?”.

Calming TikTok Videos

TikTok videos don’t all have to be funny or ironic. Some people like to watch relaxing scenes to slow down a bit.

For instance, an artist might display a close-up of themselves blending colors or provide detailed shots of their brush on the canvas.

Unique Stories

TikTok is the perfect place for you to share any quick facts or stories that set your brand apart.

Saadeh explains, “It can be as straightforward as sharing a moment like ‘here’s the office dog’ or ‘here’s the team participating in highway cleanup’ to demonstrate your dedication to the community. Ultimately, it’s about sharing micro-stories.”

Read More: TikTok for Business

Create Your Own Challenge

For maximum brand awareness, consider creating your own challenge. To do this, you need to think creatively and come up with TikTok content ideas that have the potential to draw your audience’s attention.

Celebrate Special Occasions

A simple way to increase your chances of going viral is to target special occasions and holidays. If you’re into selling pet food, for example, occasions such as national dog day will be perfect to post animal videos and connect with TikTok users. Similarly, an organic food business owner may benefit from leveraging the national avocado day.

Personal Videos

TikTok is an enjoyable platform that allows you to express your personality and foster a stronger connection with your audience. Think about having your team share humorous stories that reveal the human aspect of your brand. Some TikTok content ideas to showcase your personal side could include “a day in the life of an employee” or “see what happens on the weekend.”

Short Video Clips

Unlike most social media platform users, TikTokers prefer short content. So, if you want them to watch videos, you need to create short clips no longer than 20 seconds.

Dance Videos

Dance videos have contributed to TikTok’s immense popularity. You can post your own dance videos to bring a bit of levity to your content and to gain more followers.

Educational Videos

This might come as a surprise, but TikTok is an excellent platform for sharing educational content. While your live videos shouldn’t be too lengthy, as they may cause the audience to lose interest, you can opt to create a series of educational videos that provide valuable tips and hacks.

Answer Questions

If you possess valuable knowledge and information, users will be drawn to your content. You can leverage the platform to address frequently asked questions related to your business, which serves as an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your expertise.

Makeup Tutorials

With influencers flocking to TikTok, the platform has become quite popular with users interested in lifestyle content. You can create live videos on makeup tutorials focusing on a range of topics.

Cooking Videos

Similar to makeup tutorials, cooking videos are becoming increasingly popular on TikTok. Users are particularly drawn to simple tricks and tips.

Create Videos on Trending Topics

If you want to create viral video content, you need to keep an eye out for trending topics. If a topic is gaining traction, it’s a good idea to capitalize on it and produce content because it is one of the many ways how to get paid on TikTok. That’s because it can improve your chances of getting your audience’s attention.

Work With Influencers and Gain Even More TikTok Content Ideas

Popular TikTok influencers use creative ways to produce content. By collaborating with them, you can explore content ideas for future videos.

Another benefit of joining forces with influencers is to gain access to their network. This can help you boost your reach and entice your audience with engaging videos.

Image: Depositphotos

This article, "TikTok Content Ideas for Businesses: How to Grow Your Brand" was first published on Small Business Trends

Understanding the nuances of Instagram monetization is beneficial and essential for businesses and professionals keen on leveraging their digital assets. This article will discuss some of the most effective strategies for capitalizing on your Instagram presence and teach you how to make money on social media using this powerful platform.

How Many Followers Do You Need to Make Money on Instagram?

While it’s tempting to think that a massive follower count is the golden ticket to Instagram monetization, the reality is more nuanced, as there are several things to consider in growing your Instagram account.

Engagement Rate: Arguably more crucial than your follower count is your engagement rate. Brands and businesses increasingly recognize the value of genuine interaction over mere numbers. An account with 2,000 followers can be more profitable than one with 20,000 if those 2,000 followers are highly engaged, regularly interacting with content, and have a trust-based relationship with the account holder.

Niche and Market Demand: Your area of focus plays a significant role in your earning potential. Some niches, like beauty and travel, might be saturated but still have lucrative opportunities due to high market demand. On the other hand, a specialized niche, such as organic gardening or rare book collecting, might have fewer followers but a more dedicated and spend-ready audience.

Follower Demographics: Who your followers are can be as important as how many you have. Even a smaller follower count can be lucrative if your audience aligns with the target demographic of advertisers or brands. For instance, a brand selling luxury watches might prefer partnering with an influencer whose 5,000 followers are in the high-income bracket rather than one with 50,000 followers who might not have the purchasing power.

Diversification of Revenue Streams: Relying solely on brand sponsorships can be limiting. Those with smaller follower counts can explore other revenue streams like affiliate marketing, selling digital products, or offering specialized services related to their niche. These avenues often don’t require a vast audience but a dedicated one.

While a substantial follower count on Instagram can certainly open doors to monetization opportunities, it isn’t the only key to financial success. A focused approach, understanding your audience, and leveraging the strengths of your specific niche often hold equal, if not more, weight. So, rather than fixating solely on numbers, aim for a holistic growth strategy that prioritizes engagement and genuine connection.

Ways to Make Money on Instagram

The world of Instagram for small business users offers more than just aesthetic visuals and hashtags. For the savvy user, it can be a significant source of income, boasting multiple revenue generation streams. Meta even releases new tools for creators to make money on Facebook and Instagram regularly. So, the possibilities continue to grow. Whether you’re an influencer, a business, or simply an individual with a knack for creativity, Instagram’s expansive platform offers diverse pathways to monetization.

Selling Products or Services with an Instagram Business Account

How it works: Instagram Business Accounts allow brands and entrepreneurs to showcase their products or services directly on their profiles to Instagram users, leveraging features like Instagram Shopping to facilitate purchases. This converts your profile into a mini-e-commerce platform.

Potential earnings: This can vary greatly depending on the product, its price point, and your market positioning. Businesses can take anywhere from a few dollars for smaller items to thousands for high-ticket products or services per sale.

Tips to get started:

• Switch to an Instagram Business Account if you haven’t already. This provides you with essential tools and analytics.
• Add clear and compelling product photos or descriptions of your services.
• Utilize Instagram Shopping by tagging products in your posts, making it easy for followers to shop directly.
• Consistently engage with your audience, answer queries, and use feedback to improve offerings.

Example: Fenty Beauty, Rihanna’s cosmetic line, frequently showcases its range of beauty products through its Instagram Business Account. They utilize shoppable posts, where users can directly tap on a product in a picture, view its price, and be directed to the purchase page. This seamless integration of shopping within the platform has made it easier for brands to connect with consumers directly, making Instagram a place for discovery and purchase.

Influencer Marketing

How it works: Influencer marketing capitalizes on the reach and trust influencers have established with their audience. Brands collaborate with these influencers to promote products, services, or campaigns. These promotions can be in the form of sponsored posts, stories, IGTV videos, or reels.

Potential earnings: The earning potential varies based on the influencer’s niche, follower count, engagement rate, and the terms of the collaboration. Nano-influencers (those with a few thousand followers) might earn anywhere between $50-$200 per post and upwards. While mega-influencers (with millions of followers) can command thousands to tens of thousands of dollars per post.

Tips to get started:

• Cultivate genuine engagement with your followers. Brands value authentic interactions over mere follower count.
• Build a cohesive brand image and aesthetic. This makes your profile more attractive to potential sponsors.
• Actively network with brands that align with your niche or use platforms like AspireIQ or Upfluence to connect with potential sponsors.
• Always disclose sponsored content to maintain trust with your audience, as required by regulations.

Example: Selena Gomez, a global celebrity, partnered with Puma for influencer marketing campaigns. Both parties benefit through her posts wearing Puma gear: Puma accesses Selena’s vast follower base, and Selena gets compensated, often handsomely, for her promotional efforts. However, influencer marketing isn’t limited to global celebrities. A tech YouTuber with a few hundred thousand followers can collaborate with tech companies to review or promote gadgets, earning from these partnerships.

Affiliate Marketing

How it works: Affiliate marketing involves promoting products or services and earning a commission for every sale through your unique referral link. Unlike sponsored content, where you get paid for the promotion, affiliate marketing pays based on actual sales.

Potential earnings: Commissions vary widely depending on the product or service and the affiliate program’s terms. They typically range from 5% to 50% of the product’s price, but in some cases, it can be a fixed amount per sale, depending on the affiliate.

Tips to get started:

• Join well-known affiliate programs relevant to your niche, such as Amazon Associates, ShareASale, or CJ Affiliate.
• Promote products that you genuinely use and believe in to maintain authenticity.
• Ensure that your promotional content is engaging and provides value to your audience. This can be through reviews, tutorials, or how-to guides.
• Disclose affiliate links to your followers to maintain transparency.

Example: Pat Flynn, a renowned online entrepreneur, consistently uses affiliate marketing as a significant revenue stream. He shares resources, tools, and products he uses in his business on his platforms, including Instagram. When followers purchase through his links, he earns a commission. Similarly, fashion bloggers might share affiliate links to their outfits, allowing followers to buy the exact or similar items and making them a commission on each sale.

Sponsored Posts on Your Instagram Page

How it works: Sponsored posts are content brands pay to be featured on an influencer’s or creator’s Instagram page. These can be images, videos, stories, or reels that showcase a brand’s product, service, or message, reaching the influencer’s audience directly.

Potential earnings: Rates for sponsored posts can vary significantly based on factors like the influencer’s niche, follower count, engagement rate, and the brand’s budget. A micro-influencer with 10,000 followers might earn between $50 to $250 per post, while top-tier influencers with millions of followers can command $10,000 to $100,000 or more for a single post.

Tips to get started:

• Maintain a consistent, high-quality content aesthetic that aligns with your brand or niche.
• Engage with your audience regularly to keep your engagement rates high, making your profile more attractive to potential sponsors.
• Proactively reach out to brands that resonate with your content or wait for brands to contact you. Consider using platforms like BrandSnob or TRIBE to find sponsorship opportunities.
• To maintain transparency with your followers and comply with guidelines, clearly disclose sponsored content by using tags such as #ad or #sponsored.

Example: Kayla Itsines, a fitness influencer, often partners with health and wellness brands to produce sponsored content. In a post, she might highlight a health product she uses in her daily routine, with a caption detailing its benefits. This direct endorsement gives the brand credibility and access to Kayla’s extensive follower base while she earns a fee for the promotion.

Selling Photos to Your Instagram Followers

How it works: If you’re a photographer or have a knack for creating visually stunning content, you can monetize your skill by selling high-resolution photos to your followers. These images can be used for commercial purposes, personal use, or digital and print media.

Potential earnings: Prices can vary based on the photo’s quality, uniqueness, and potential use. A photographer might sell digital downloads for anywhere from $10 to $500 or more per image, especially if it’s for commercial use.

Tips to get started:

• Maintain a consistent theme or style to your photos to attract a specific audience or niche.
• Use watermarks to protect your content from unauthorized use.
• Promote your available photos for sale in your posts, stories, and bio. Consider using platforms like SmugMug or 500px to manage sales.
• Offer bundle deals or discounts for purchasing multiple images to encourage more sales.
• Ensure you have proper licensing agreements in place so buyers are aware of the usage rights.

Example: Chris Burkard, a renowned travel photographer, has garnered a massive following on Instagram. While showcasing his adventures, he offers prints and high-resolution downloads for purchase. Followers can own a piece of Chris’s work, either digitally or as a print. This method monetizes his craft and provides a tangible connection between the artist and his audience.

Using Instagram Posts to Offer a Course or Workshop

How it works: Instagram can be a powerful tool to promote and sell educational content, be it through online courses, webinars, or physical workshops. Sharing snippets of your expertise on your feed or stories can attract potential students and redirect them to sign up for more in-depth lessons.

Potential earnings: Depending on the depth, duration, and niche of the course or workshop, prices can range from $20 for an introductory webinar to $1,000 or more for comprehensive classes or specialized workshops.

Tips to get started:

• Start by sharing valuable free content about your expertise to build credibility and trust.
• Use Instagram stories or IGTV to offer mini-tutorials or insights, giving your audience a taste of what they can expect from the entire course.
• Promote early-bird discounts or limited-time offers to create urgency.
• Interact with your followers by addressing their questions related to your area of expertise, fostering a connection, and showcasing your authority on the topic.
• Include clear call-to-actions in your posts and bio, directing followers to sign up or learn more.

Example: Jenna Kutcher, a digital marketing expert, frequently uses her Instagram to share marketing tips, personal stories, and insights. Through this free value, she attracts followers to paid courses and workshops on marketing, branding, and entrepreneurship. Every post or story she shares reinforces her expertise, making her paid offerings a logical next step for those looking to dive deeper.

Make an Instagram Shop

How it works: An Instagram Shop transforms your Instagram profile into a direct e-commerce platform, allowing users to explore and purchase products without leaving the app. It integrates with your existing e-commerce platform, seamlessly displaying product prices and descriptions within the Instagram interface.

Potential earnings: Your earnings from an Instagram Shop are directly tied to your product sales. Depending on your product range, pricing, and marketing efforts, revenues can range from a few dollars to thousands or more monthly.

Tips to get started:

• Ensure you have an Instagram Business Account and are eligible for Instagram Shopping.
• Connect your e-commerce platform (like Shopify or WooCommerce) with Instagram.
• Highlight products in your posts and stories, tagging them to direct users to your shop.
• Use engaging visuals and persuasive captions to attract potential buyers.
• Offer limited-time promotions or discounts exclusively for your Instagram followers to drive sales.

Example: ColourPop Cosmetics, a famous beauty brand, leverages its Instagram Shop to showcase its vast range of products. When launching a new product line, they’ll create visually appealing posts and stories, tagging the products. Enticed by the visuals, followers can tap on the development and be taken directly to a purchasing page within Instagram, streamlining the buying process and increasing the likelihood of a sale.

IGTV Ads

How it works: IGTV Ads are short, monetizable video ads that play when a user decides to watch IGTV videos from the creators they follow. Instagram has started to share ad revenue with creators, giving them a new stream of income based on their video content.

Potential earnings: Earnings can vary depending on the number of views your IGTV videos receive and the engagement rate. Instagram typically offers a 55% share to creators, which is similar to platforms like YouTube.

Tips to get started:

• Regularly produce high-quality, engaging IGTV content that keeps viewers hooked.
• Maintain consistent branding and video quality to attract a loyal viewer base.
• Engage with your audience in the comments to boost video visibility and engagement.
• Stay updated with Instagram’s ad policies and best practices to ensure your content remains eligible for monetization.
• Promote your IGTV content and stories on your feed to garner more views.

Example: A fitness influencers might use IGTV to share longer workout sessions or fitness tips. When followers click to watch these videos, they’re first shown a short ad. Cassey would earn a portion of the ad revenue as the video garners views, adding another monetization layer to her content strategy.

Instagram Reels

How it works: Instagram Reels is the platform’s answer to the short-form video content wave, allowing users to create and explore 15 to 30-second multi-clip videos. While direct monetization features for Reels are still evolving, using Reels can indirectly boost your earnings by increasing visibility, driving traffic to monetized platforms, and attracting brand partnerships.

Potential earnings: Direct earnings from Reels are not as established as other methods to monetize your Instagram, but the visibility and engagement they offer can significantly impact indirect revenue streams like sponsored content, affiliate marketing, or product sales.

Tips to get started:

• Stay updated with trending topics and music on the Reels platform and incorporate them creatively.
• Utilize the editing tools to create engaging and polished video content.
• Cross-promote your Reels on your feed, stories, and other social media platforms.
• Engage with comments and shares to boost the visibility of your Reels.
• – Collaborate with other creators or brands to reach a broader audience.

Example: A beauty influencer might create a quick “get ready with me” Reel showcasing a brand’s new cosmetic line. While the Reel itself might not directly earn revenue, the brand might compensate the influencer for the exposure, and the Reel could drive traffic to the influencer’s other monetized content or affiliate links.

Instagram Guides

How it works: Instagram Guides allow users to curate and share content in an easy-to-digest format, be it tips, recommendations, or product showcases. Originally launched for health and wellness content, the feature has expanded, enabling creators to share products, places, and posts in a more organized manner.

Potential earnings: Direct monetization from Guides is not as established as other Instagram features. However, they can serve as an avenue for brand partnerships or affiliate marketing and drive traffic to other monetized platforms or content.

Tips to get started:

• Decide on a theme or topic for your Guide that resonates with your audience.
• Curate your best content around that theme, posts, products, or recommendations.
• Integrate affiliate links where relevant, ensuring transparency with your audience.
• Collaborate with brands to feature their products or services within your Guide.
• Share your guide and stories on your feed to increase its visibility.

Example: A travel influencer could develop a Guide named “Top 10 Cafes in Paris,” showcasing their posts and reviews of each cafe. If they have collaborations with some of these cafes or associated brands, they might include exclusive offers or affiliate links in the Guide. This not only provides a useful resource for their followers but also creates a potential income opportunity for the influencer.

Ways to Generate Income on Instagram Without Followers

While the monetization opportunities on Instagram tend to benefit users with large follower counts, you don’t need to have thousands or even millions of followers to begin earning. The platform provides a variety of tools and features that create multiple pathways for making money, even for newcomers. Below, we discuss strategies that do not solely rely on having a massive follower base.

Selling Products or Services

Your Instagram can act as a mini-portfolio or online storefront. You can effectively attract a niche audience or potential buyers by showcasing your products, artwork, or services.

Strategy: Focus on quality over quantity. Make each post count by showcasing the value proposition of what you’re selling. Use targeted hashtags to reach potential customers.

Offering Courses or Workshops

Your expertise in a particular field can be a goldmine. Even without a significant following, if you have valuable knowledge to share, there’s likely an audience willing to pay.

Strategy: Share snippets of your expertise in posts or stories and use them as teasers for more comprehensive courses or workshops. Promote your offerings in your bio and leverage Instagram ads to reach a wider audience.

Affiliate Marketing

While having a larger audience can help with affiliate sales, what’s more critical is audience trust and product relevance.

Strategy: Choose products or services that are genuinely beneficial to your audience, even if it’s small. Write honest reviews or create tutorials, including your affiliate link.

Instagram Shop

If you have tangible products, setting up an Instagram Shop can make browsing and purchasing seamless for visitors.

Strategy: Use high-quality visuals, write compelling product descriptions, and utilize Instagram’s shopping features to make purchasing as intuitive as possible.

Leverage IGTV and Reels

Creating engaging, valuable, or entertaining content on IGTV and Reels can attract an audience over time. These tools are incredibly potent as Instagram often prioritizes and promotes their use.

Strategy: Study trending topics or formats and incorporate them creatively into your content. This can increase your visibility on the platform, even if you have a smaller follower count.

Offer Freelance Services

Your Instagram can be a portfolio or testimonial page if you’re a writer, designer, coach, or freelancer.

Strategy: Share samples of your work, client testimonials, and behind-the-scenes processes. Engage with relevant industry hashtags to get your content to potential clients.

Having a multitude of followers can undoubtedly provide a boost in potential income. However, the real power lies in authenticity, value proposition, and strategic utilization of Instagram’s features. You can monetize Instagram irrespective of your follower count by providing genuine value and leveraging the abovementioned strategies.

How Many Views to Make Money on Instagram?

Views are an integral metric on visual platforms like Instagram, but how do they directly correlate to earnings? Understanding the relationship between views and income becomes paramount, especially with the introduction of ad revenue sharing on IGTV and the potential future monetization of Instagram Reels.

IGTV Ads

In mid-2020, Instagram started testing IGTV ads, which meant creators could earn a cut from ads shown in their IGTV videos.

Process & Prerequisites:

• Creators must be part of the Instagram Partner Program to be eligible.
• A video ad will play when users click on your IGTV video. These ads can be up to 15 seconds long.
• Instagram typically offers a 55% share to creators, mirroring platforms like YouTube.
• Views and Earnings: While Instagram hasn’t published exact earnings per view, it’s believed that factors like video engagement, ad relevance, and viewer demographics play a role. Generally, more views mean more earnings, but the quality of those views (e.g., how long viewers watch the ad) can significantly affect income.

Instagram Reels

Currently, Instagram has not launched a direct monetization feature for Reels akin to IGTV ads. However, the high engagement rate and visibility of Reels make it a lucrative platform for indirect monetization methods, such as promoting sponsored content or driving traffic to monetized platforms.

Potential Future Monetization: Given the competitive nature of short-form video content (with platforms like TikTok offering monetization), it wouldn’t be surprising if Instagram introduced a revenue-sharing model for Reels in the future.

While views are a direct indicator of earning potential, particularly with IGTV ads, it’s important to note that they are just one part of the overall picture. Engagement metrics such as video completion rates, comments, shares, and likes can greatly influence earnings. Additionally, having a dedicated and niche audience may prove to be more valuable than a large but less engaged group of viewers.

Furthermore, while ad revenue can provide passive income, many creators find that actively leveraging their platforms for affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and product or service promotions can lead to more substantial earnings.

In conclusion, views are a valuable metric, but they should be paired with strategic content creation, audience engagement, and diversified monetization strategies to truly unlock the earning potential of Instagram.

The Role of Instagram Marketing in a Social Media Marketing Strategy

In the world of digital marketing, social media platforms have become essential tools for engaging audiences, building brands, and driving conversions. Instagram, in particular, is a visually focused powerhouse that offers distinct advantages. In the following sections, we will examine Instagram’s role within a comprehensive social media marketing strategy and how it works in harmony with other platforms.

A Visual Storytelling Platform

At its core, Instagram is a platform designed for sharing visuals – be it photos, videos, or graphics. This emphasis on visual content allows brands to:

• Build a Visual Brand Identity: Consistent aesthetics, color schemes, and content themes help companies establish a solid visual identity, making them instantly recognizable.
• Humanize the Brand: Behind-the-scenes content, stories, and live videos allow brands to show their human side, fostering stronger connections with their audience.

Access to a Massive and Engaged User Base

Instagram provides access to a vast global audience with over a billion users. Most users are incredibly engaged, with more than half logging in daily. This engagement rate offers brands:

• Diverse Audience Segmentation: Brands with tailored content can target various demographics, from Gen Z to millennials and beyond.
• Higher Engagement Rates: Compared to platforms like Facebook and Twitter, Instagram often boasts higher interaction rates, providing better ROI for organic and paid campaigns.

Unique Features for Marketers

Instagram continually innovates, offering features that enhance marketing efforts.

• Instagram Shopping: Brands can turn their profiles into virtual storefronts, streamlining the shopping experience.
• Reels & IGTV: Short and long-form video content broadens the scope of content strategies, from quick product showcases to in-depth tutorials.
• Stories & Highlights: Temporary content boosts engagement, while Highlights allow brands to categorize and showcase essential content permanently.

Integrating Instagram with a Cross-Platform Strategy

Instagram doesn’t operate in a vacuum. It’s most potent when integrated cohesively with a brand’s broader social media strategy.

• Cross-Promotion: Content can be shared across platforms, directing traffic from Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn to Instagram and vice versa. You may even explore other ways to make money on your phone and online through these other platforms. For example, explore how to make money on TikTok, how to make money on Medium, or how to make money on Pinterest.
• Consistent Messaging: While each platform has its unique features, ensuring a consistent brand message across all platforms solidifies brand identity.
• Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC): Encouraging users to create Instagram content and share it on other platforms boosts community engagement and provides authentic promotional material.

With its visually rich interface, engaged user base, and innovative features, Instagram plays a pivotal role in modern social media marketing. As brands vie for attention in an increasingly digital world, integrating Instagram into a holistic social media strategy is essential. It acts as a linchpin, connecting brands with audiences in meaningful, engaging, and conversion-driven ways.

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FAQs: How to Make Money on Instagram

How do Instagram influencers make money?

Have you ever wondered, “how do influencers make money on Instagram?” Instagram influencers primarily make money through sponsored content, where Brands pay influencers to promote their products or services through posts or stories. They can also make money via affiliate marketing, where influencers earn a commission for every sale made through their unique referral link.

Instagram influencers can also make money selling products or services, and many influencers have their product lines or offer services directly to their followers. Instagram influencers can also make money via collaborations and partnerships by teaming up with other influencers or brands for joint campaigns or product launches.

How can Instagram Stories be used to make money on Instagram?

Instagram Stories can be monetized by promoting sponsored content and showcasing a brand’s message for a fee. Instagram stories can also be monetized via directing traffic using “Swipe Up” links (available to accounts with 10k+ followers) to direct followers to affiliate products, e-commerce sites, or other monetized platforms.

Instagram influencers can also post exclusive offers and Share limited-time promotions or discounts to encourage immediate action. Engaging Polls and Q&A can be a way to make money using Instagram Stories, as interacting with followers can boost engagement, making your profile more attractive for brand partnerships.

Is there a fast method to generate income on Instagram?

While building a genuine following and monetizing it usually takes time, some quicker methods might include selling products if you already have products or a service to offer. Setting up an Instagram Shop can lead to immediate sales.

Another option might be affiliate marketing if you have a trusted audience, even if small, promoting relevant products can yield quick commissions. Short-term collaborations, such as partnering with brands for flash promotions or events, can be a way to make money.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when trying to make money on Instagram?

Common mistakes to avoid when making money on Instagram include inauthentic promotion by promoting products or brands that don’t align with your values or audience engagement. Focusing solely on growing follower count without engaging with your existing audience is also a common mistake. Over-promotion by flooding your feed with too many sponsored posts, which can deter followers, is another mistake to avoid.

Neglecting analytics by not utilizing Instagram insights to understand what works and refine your strategy can also affect your ability to make money on Instagram. When trying to make money on Instagram, focus specifically on tools built for the platform. If you’re looking to integrate other platforms into your business’s revenue streams, ask other questions, like “how do you make money on TikTok?”

Can using Instagram marketing services help boost my income on Instagram?

Yes, Instagram marketing services, such as content creation tools, analytics platforms, and ad management agencies, can optimize your content and promotional strategies. This can enhance your reach, engagement, and conversion rates, potentially boosting your income. However, it’s crucial to vet these services thoroughly and ensure they align with your goals and budget.

Image: Depositphotos

This article, "How to Make Money on Instagram" was first published on Small Business Trends