Snapchat for Marketing
As most people know Snapchat allows users to send photos or videos to friends. What makes it special is the fact that the photos and videos will disappear within seconds, never to be seen again. A lot of people would consider Snapchat as “teenagers’ social media”. The network has a notably low average age, thus it is considered to be more dynamic and responsive. This has plenty of advantages and potential benefits for businesses.
However, Snapchat’s reach and success is a lot harder to measure than other more established social media channels. Marketers really need to be adaptive, as Snapchat is literally a young man’s game and snaps disappear instantly, thus a quick response is very essential.
The question is “how to utilise Snapchat as the perfect marketing tool?”
Previews
Snapchat images or videos only last for a few seconds. This really can play on a feeling of “less is more”. Using the app for a little peek of products or information can really create a talking point and get people interested and chatting about your brand.
Snapchat is also great if you’re hoping to engage customers in sales or special offers. Simply send them a coupon with a keyword or discount code that they have to use to save money when ordering or buying from you. Whatever way you decide to promote your business with Snapchat, remember it should create excitement and once again get people talking.
Competition Ideas
Of course, the big Snapchat marketing benefits come in the shape of competitions. If you’re the generous sort then Snapchat can be a great way to improve footfall in your shop and overall interest in your brand. Here are some ideas for contests using the app.
- A simple competition is to send a number of images to followers. To be entered in the draw users have to write down all the images or words.
- Quicksnap: another simple game, where the first to respond with a Snap in return wins a prize.
- Treasure hunts: Snap certain places or items and as people snap back the same item or place, send them the next one. The winner is the person to snap all the items in question.
- Utilise other networks by providing clues and questions to customers like above, but by also promoting them through Facebook and Twitter. Ask for answers and submissions to be performed through Twitter to get a buzz going and so people’s friends will also take an interest in your brand.
Currently Snapchat doesn’t have the same strict terms of service of Facebook or other sites have. So, a great way to build followers is to get current followers to ask friends to follow you. This can be verified by getting the current follower to tell you who to look out for and the new follower sending you a snap to verify they’re the same person. Use discounts, prizes or special content in the shape of coupons to motivate current followers to do this.
Snapchat is a pretty cool social media site and one that’s only getting bigger and bigger. So, some wise usage can really push up your engagement and follower rates and help you make more of it.