Using Hashtags to Maximize Your Message

Even though the hashtag was created by twitter as a way of organizing content; using hashtags on other top social media sites like Facebook, Tumblr, Google+ and Instagram has become an effective tactic for cataloging and reaching more of your target audience than before.  Do not use hashtags on Pinterest, they recently came up with a new algorithm that no longer supports the use of hashtags. Likewise, LinkedIn is also not a platform for adding hashtags. So, save your hashtags for, Facebook, Tumblr, Google+ and Instagram.  

This is excellent news for business women because, when used correctly, hastags are super beneficial. Let's talk a bit about using them on Instagram and how anyone searching for a hashtag you used will be able to see your content! Below I am going to share with you a few key tips on maximizing this method, but before you read on, go ahead an try this out: simply go Google or Instagram and search for our company hashtags #macswomen or #createsuccess and you will find a ton of content to engage with.  Easy and pretty cool, right? 

So, here are 3 key tips to ensure you are using hashtags correctly to get your brand easily found: 

1.  Keep your Instagram profile public -- I have often wondered why, unless it is your private account, would business women make their profiles private. A private business account can deter others from following your account. Keeping your account public allows anyone searching for a hashtag you used to see your content. This is one simple method to gaining more engagement for your photos and potentially more followers for your account. 

2. Some say don't overuse hashtags with your photos -- Instagram allows the use of up to 30 hashtags. Now, maybe not all 30; however,  I say use as many to reach a wider, targeted audience. 

3. To my previous tip, only use hastags that are relevant to your photo or brand. Don't just use them to gain likes or followers because at the end of the day, you want to reach people who will be excited about your seeing your next post and the next bit of information that you are going to share. Begin by thinking creatively to come up with hashtags that others in your industry might already be using and that are inline with your brand messaging or image. 

For example some of our top hashtags are: #macswomen (our company name) #businesswomen (our clients) #bizwomen, #ladyboss, #entrepreneurs, #femaleEntrepreneurs, #WomeninBusiness, #mompreneurs, #passionpreneurs, #femalebiz  #smallbizlady.... these are all variations for our clients and  potential clients. 

With these simple tips in mind, you can begin incorporating hashtags as a useful tactic for reaching more and engaging with more of your ideal clients. 

Tell us which hashtags you are currently using on social media to drive more engament and organize your content?