The phrase “content is king” has become the centerpiece of what to share, how to engage, and, essentially, where to start with social media. Although content plays a key role in attracting users and maintaining a loyal audience, it’s important to boil it down even further: What kind of content? Which content will my followers appreciate? Where can I find this content?
These questions can be a little daunting at first, especially when millions of users are uploading information every second of the day across a multitude of platforms. But did you know much of this content originates in your backyard? Think local.
Posting local content to your social media sites does two things. First, it gives those who are looking to relocate to your area better insight into the community. Secondly, it attracts people who aren’t necessarily looking to buy or sell their homes, but because you’re posting content that’s relevant to their lives, they’re willing to stick around.
Consider these three methods of curating and creating your own local content.
Know your local news outlets.
National news is interesting but what happens on the local level has more of a different impact on one’s life. Luckily the Internet has made hyperlocal reporting — news that is specific to a community or town — even more popular. These sites typically include government and school news, a calendar of events, a business directory, and/or input from the locals.
Browse the Internet for those sites and their social media channels. Create lists on Facebook and Twitter. Lists make it easier to gather and curate content and can be used as resources by your followers, too.
Local news organizations like Patch are the heartbeat of the community and are typically updated with fresh content every day. Some even feature a daily newsletter.
Lists on Twitter aren’t just helpful to you, but can be a great tool for fellow users, too.
Be mobile.
Whether you’re in work mode or not, it’s important to be on your toes when you’re out and about. Let your smartphone be your best friend. Most are equipped with sufficient cameras and the ability to download social apps. If you’re dining at a local restaurant, snap a picture, add your two cents and upload. Same with community events and celebrations, local landmarks, parks, etc.
Don’t just tell your audience about a place — show your audience through a beautiful photo.
Get location-based.
Leaving reviews about businesses on Yelp or Google Plus Local shows users you have in-depth knowledge of the area, are willing to establish connections beyond your own business and possess a vested interest in the community.
Consumer-generated review sites are platforms to show off your local expertise. Users take great stake in what the peers have to say about a business, product or service.
Make it mobile by downloading Foursquare. Users “check in” to a variety of venues on their smartphones and leave “insider” tips that are visible to the Foursquare community.