You posted what?!
In the ever-evolving realm of social media, certain practices can make even the most seasoned social media managers cringe.
These “icks” – moments that induce a sense of discomfort or aversion – are often the result of common missteps brands make online.
Social media managers have spoken, and here are the seven practices they wish brands would avoid:
Links in Instagram Captions
The top pet peeve? Links in Instagram captions. They’re not only unclickable but also disrupt the visual flow.
Remember, users can’t copy-paste from captions, so the chances of them recalling and typing out a lengthy URL are minimal. Instead, direct followers to the link in your bio for a smoother experience.
QR Codes on Social Graphics
While QR codes have their place, embedding them in social graphics isn’t it. It’s impractical and often leads to a dead-end call to action.
Instead of QR codes, consider more effective ways to drive traffic, like using link stickers in Instagram Stories.
Improper Hashtag Usage
Hashtags are crucial for discoverability, but they need to be readable. Using #CamelCase (capitalising the first letter of each word) not only looks cleaner but also makes your content more accessible, especially for those with visual impairments.
Liking Your Own Posts (From The Brand Account)
Liking your brand’s post from the brand account can come off as inauthentic.
Instead of self-liking, focus on creating content that naturally encourages engagement and resonates with your audience.
TikTok Watermarks on Reels
Crossposting is efficient, but leaving a TikTok watermark on your Instagram Reels can affect your post’s performance. Ensure you remove any watermarks for a seamless reposting experience.
Purchasing Fake Followers
In the world of social media, authenticity is key. Buying followers might temporarily boost numbers, but it’s easy to spot and can harm your brand’s reputation.
Genuine engagement and growth are always more valuable than inflated follower counts.
Setting Unrealistic Job Expectations
Social media managers are professionals with a diverse skill set. They’re not just “interns” or “gurus.” Brands should recognise their expertise and provide realistic job descriptions and compensation that reflect their responsibilities and contributions.
Final Thoughts
While these “icks” might seem playful, they highlight essential best practices for brands navigating the social media landscape.
By being aware of these pitfalls and actively avoiding them, Aussie brands can foster genuine connections, build trust, and create a positive online presence.
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