Social media success is often painted as a quick win, but the truth is, consistency over time (plus a few paid ads) is what frequently drives results.
For small businesses in Atlantic Canada, showing up consistently on social media is critical for building trust and keeping your business top of mind.
1. Regular Posting Builds Trust
Social media moves quickly, and businesses that post regularly are more likely to stay relevant. In smaller communities, regular updates remind your audience that your business is active and engaged.
Why it works: In places like Bathurst or Miramichi, word spreads fast. If your business appears to go quiet on social media, potential customers may assume you’re no longer in operation. Posting even a few times a week can keep you in the local conversation.
2. Find a Content Rhythm That Works for You
While it certainly helps, you don’t need to post every day to see results, but you do need a rhythm. Plan your content around themes that matter to your audience. For instance, a gift shop in Halifax might share product highlights on Mondays, local event news on Wednesdays, and customer testimonials on Fridays.
Pro Tip: Use tools like Buffer or Hootsuite to schedule posts in advance. This ensures you stay consistent even during busy times.
3. Don’t Underestimate Hashtags and Local SEO
While hashtags are often associated with large-scale influencers, they can work wonders for small businesses in smaller towns. Local hashtags like #HalifaxSmallBusiness or #MonctonEats can attract a more focused audience.
How to Use Them: On Instagram and Facebook, mix popular hashtags with more niche local tags. For example, if you run a local restaurant in Halifax, use general hashtags like #Foodie, but also local ones like #HalifaxFood.
4. Measure and Adjust
Consistency isn’t just about posting regularly; it’s about consistently reviewing what works and what doesn’t. Use tools like Facebook Insights or Instagram Analytics to track the performance of your posts and tweak your strategy accordingly.
Key Metric: Engagement rate is crucial in smaller towns. You may not have thousands of followers, but if your posts consistently receive comments, likes, and shares from your community, you’re on the right track.
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Photo credit: Andrew Neel on Unsplash