Like it or not, creating content and regularly appearing on social media is part of a hairdresser’s job, posting your work and interacting with other accounts. According to evo international creative colour director Tom Smith, social media is not only your online portfolio, but your direct line to your potential clients. “Social media is your strongest (free) advertising and marketing tool. It can enable you to live out a career without a ceiling and give you access to an international hairdressing community and endless opportunities.”
It’s also important to determine who your audience is – clients or industry. “I always advise choosing one – I don’t believe you can effectively appeal to your peers and your customers in the same messaging,” Tom explains. “Think about your career goals and choose your niche; accordingly, if your goal is becoming fully booked then focus more on client friendly language and your local community. If you want to educate and travel with a brand, building your profile as an expert and sharing insight with your peers will rapidly put you on the radar for potential opportunities. Remember your goal can change and it’s OK to rethink your strategy over time.”
Tom’s top tips for taking your social media to the next level
1. Ascertain your ‘why’. When you’re totally clear on why you’re participating in professional social media you can make more intentional choices. Use this to determine one key profile/character all your content is addressing (sometimes it’s helpful to literally imagine a single ideal client of business contact and imagine all your content is designed to please them).
2. Decide whether you want a beautifully curated landing page or whether you really want to grow a following and build a profile, this will determine really how much you need to invest in the build.
3. Schedule time to create and post content, and make sure it’s consistent, whatever frequency you choose. Collaborate with peers who you admire where possible. You’ll gain new experiences and gain access to each other’s existing audience which can boost growth rapidly.
Follow Tom Smith on Instagram
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