What Do We Mean When We Say You Should Post an "80/20 Mix" on Social Media?
In the dynamic world of social media, striking the right balance between promotional content and engaging, audience-centric posts is crucial for maintaining a vibrant and interactive online presence. At LA Social, we often recommend the "80/20 mix" strategy to our clients. But what exactly does this mean, and why is it effective? Let's dive into the details.
Understanding the 80/20 Rule in Social Media-
The 80/20 rule, often referred to as the Pareto Principle, suggests that 80% of your outcomes come from 20% of your efforts. When applied to social media, we adapt this rule to mean that only 20% of your content should be self-promotional while the remaining 80% should focus on content that engages and interests your audience. This approach helps to create a more balanced and less sales-focused feed.
The 20%: Promoting Your Brand-
Let’s start with the smaller portion of the mix—your brand’s promotional content. This 20% is vital as it directly informs your audience about your products, services, or offers. This can include:
Product launches and updates
Promotions and special offers
Company news and milestones
Testimonials and success stories
While this content promotes your brand, it should still add value to your audience’s experience on your page. For instance, product announcements can be paired with usage tips, and company news can include behind-the-scenes stories that create a deeper connection with your audience.
The 80%: Engaging Your Audience-
Now, for the bulk of your content—the 80%. This is where you really get to shine as a brand that understands and appreciates its followers. This content should focus on what interests your audience, encourages interaction, and builds community. It might include:
Educational content: Teach them something new or provide how-to guides that relate to your industry.
Entertaining content: Share fun facts, memes, or light-hearted posts that align with your brand voice.
Inspirational stories: Highlight customer stories or motivational posts that resonate with your followers.
Engagement-driven content: Host Q&A sessions, polls, or contests to encourage active participation.
Curated content: Share relevant articles, videos, or graphics from other creators that your audience would find valuable.
Why Does the 80/20 Mix Work?
This strategy works because it prioritizes the needs and interests of the audience over aggressive sales tactics. By focusing 80% of your content on what engages and benefits your audience, you foster a stronger relationship with them. This makes the 20% of promotional content feel less intrusive and more welcome.
Implementing the 80/20 Mix
To successfully implement this strategy, start by analyzing your audience to understand what kinds of content they engage with most. Use social media analytics tools to track engagement rates and tailor your content strategy accordingly. Remember, flexibility is key—what works today might change tomorrow, so stay responsive and adapt your strategy as needed.
Adopting the 80/20 mix in your social media strategy can transform how your audience interacts with your brand. By focusing on creating content that truly matters to them, and subtly blending in promotional messages, you can build a loyal community around your brand. At LA Social, we specialize in crafting bespoke social media strategies that resonate with target audiences and deliver tangible results.
Ready to perfect your social media presence with the 80/20 mix?
Contact LA Social today, and let's create a strategy that not only promotes your brand but also captivates your audience.
