If you are involved with selling online, you probably promote affiliate products on social media. When it comes to social media and affiliate marketing, there are several things you need to know. It may seem difficult to combine the best of both worlds, but it is possible. There are several things you can do to promote affiliate products on social media sites and have it turn out right.
Selling online is a bit different than selling in an open marketplace like a farmers’ market, or a downtown shopping area. If you were selling there, your location will surely make difference as foot traffic would just bring some people to see what you are selling. Online, you have to drive traffic to your site and social media is a great way to do that.
First of all, let’s start out by taking a look at social media. Originally starting out as a way to stay connected between friends (i.e., socially), this has now taken off and skyrocketed in another direction of promotion and marketing as well.
Social media is a great way to promote your product or service. Lets take a look at social media and how it can benefit your business. By the way, this is not just for affiliate marketing – it can be used to market your own products as well.
Promote Affiliate Products on Social Media via Trial and Error
Unfortunately, the best way to find out what works sometimes is to see what doesn’t work. This is so true when it comes to social media. For example, if you take a look at your Facebook posts over the last year, this will give you major insight as to what works and what does not.
We have all had a post that has caused controversy and something we wish we had never said or written for that matter. Sometimes, however, a little controversy is good when it comes to social media. It stirs the pot and gets people thinking.
Also, take a look at your most popular posts. What was it about that post that resonated with so many people? Take that and run with it.
Once you have had a bit of experience with Twitter, Pinterest, and Facebook just to name a few, you will be in a more advantageous place to practice promoting your product or service.
Be an Expert
Chances are that your product or service is sold out there in social media land already. Being an expert in your chosen service or product gives you two legs up on the competition. Stretch your imagination and go the extra mile. Do extensive research on your product or service. In this way, when someone on social media has a question, you will have the answer.
Have a Unique Selling Proposition
When you have a unique selling proposition, you solve several problems for your potential client. First, you offer them a solution that they are already seeking and secondly, you inspire them to believe it is in their best interest to check out your product or service.
When it comes to selling on social media, it is a great idea to offer unique, interesting, and even offbeat information about your product rather than push for a hard sell. No one likes to feel they are being sold something.
Engage
Last but not least, engage with your audience in a friendly conversational tone. Talk to them and not at them. Engaging with your followers means you care about their needs, are friendly, and genuine.
Authenticity has a way of shining a bright spotlight on your product or service without you looking like you are pushing for a hard sell.
Beth Kelley says
Great and smart advice. Thank you very much!
Paul says
Two Thumbs Up, Beth! You are welcome very much!
Toni Nelson says
It’s so important to let people know they are more than a number. I agree that Engaging with your followers means you care about their needs, are friendly, and genuine.
Paul says
And here it has taken me 10 months to reply and get back to your comment, Toni! My Apologies!
Your comment was already pre-approved, so I did not get notification that you left a comment. My comment is an example of what NOT to do for engagement!