Hashtags work best on Twitter but can be used on other social media platforms too; on Twitter you can use a hashtag that works for your business and relates to your offerings. For example, if you are a plumber you could talk about what you are doing that day, the service could be one hashtag and plumber would be another hashtag, as well as the area you are working.
Research shows that one hashtag is good, 2 to 5 hashtags will gain more engagement and click-throughs, while more than 5 hashtags will lower your engagement of that post so don’t overdo it with the hashtag.
A tweet with one hashtag will gain twice as much engagement than a tweet with no hashtags, there is a 21% higher engagement rare when 2-5 hashtags are used, then a 17% reduction in a tweet when more than 5 hashtags are used.
If you are promoting a national day or event then check for the hashtags for this and you will gain more engagement with others using this hashtag.
The hashtag is clickable so people can click on the hashtag and find out more and engage with others so it can be a great way of gaining new clients and business.
Be careful to use capital letters at the start of each word when you are putting multiple words as one hashtag – for example #PlumberInPeterborough. Not only does it make it easier to read but it saves for any embarrassing situations. For example, Susan Boyle had an album launch party but the hashtag had no capital letters and was left as #susanalbumparty – which could be misread.
If you are unsure how to make the most out of your business social media platforms and would like some social media training or perhaps you don’t have time and you would like someone to manage your social media presence for you then let us know. We would be happy to offer support and guidance to help you get the most from your online presence for your business.