Where to start: Apps for Content Creation and Social Media
Hello, fellow entrepreneurs of Baraboo, Wisconsin! Are you eager to kickstart your digital marketing efforts but haven't yet enlisted the help of a graphic design professional or social media specialist? Don't worry; you can begin creating compelling digital content and crafting your social media strategy with the help of some user-friendly apps. In this guide, we'll explore how you can leverage some of my favorite apps, Canva and VideoLeap, along with multiple social media platforms, to get started on your digital marketing journey.
Why Invest in Content Creation Apps?
Creating visually appealing and engaging content is essential for capturing your audience's attention in today's digital landscape. Effective content can boost brand visibility, engage your audience, and drive customer loyalty. While hiring a digital marketing specialist is valuable, I realize it is also expensive. You can start the content creation process yourself with accessible and user-friendly apps. Here's a breakdown of key apps to consider:
Canva: Your Creative Playground
Why Use Canva?
Canva is a user-friendly graphic design tool that empowers small business owners to craft professional-looking graphics without any design experience. Non-profits get Canva for free!
Here's what you can do with it:
Design Graphics: Create eye-catching social media posts, banners, and advertisements tailored to your brand.
Templates Galore: Access a wide range of templates designed for various platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and more. These are your new best friends! However, as someone who has used Canva for years... it does get stale. You'll want to continue expanding your knowledge of apps. If you feel comfortable in Canva, check out Adobe Max!
Photo Editing: Enhance your photos with easy-to-use editing tools.
Collaboration: Collaborate with team members or freelancers on your marketing projects. *cough cough* Check out this collaboration I did with Gifts of the World in Wisconsin Dells. And if you know what those little finger covers are, by golly tell me! haha
VideoLeap: Dive into Video Marketing
Why Use VideoLeap?
Video marketing is a powerful tool for engaging your audience. VideoLeap offers beginner-friendly video editing capabilities, helping you create attention-grabbing content. Plus, it is content is user driven by the best so you'll find new templates from VideoLeap that are trending regularly. Also, use CapCut to unlock TikTok trends on a new level!
Video Editing: Edit and enhance your video clips effortlessly. However, it does cost about $10 to edit a template someone else created. I recommend getting to know templates and building a video on TikTok. In no time, you'll practically be making your own templates. If not, it's time to schedule a workshop with me!
Effects and Transitions: Add effects, transitions, and text to make your videos pop.
In-App Camera: Record video content directly within the app. I personally prefer to record out-of-app, but this is important for many.
Social Media Integration: Share your videos directly to your social media platforms with one click.
Social Media Platforms for Baraboo Entrepreneurs
Now, let's discuss the social media platforms that Baraboo entrepreneurs should consider using. These platforms vary in terms of importance, with some being must-haves and others offering additional benefits:
Must-Be-Using:
Facebook: Nearly everyone is on Facebook. It's an essential platform for sharing your business updates and connecting with your local community.
Instagram: Visual content thrives on Instagram. Use it to showcase your products or services through images and short videos.
Google My Business: This is crucial if you have a physical location. It helps local customers find you easily. I personally recommend setting up your Google Workspace at the same time. There is a monthly charge but if you have a team- this is a huge business hack in communication and efficiency.
Recommended:
LinkedIn: Ideal for B2B businesses and professional networking.
Cutting-Edge, Nice but Not Needed:
Pinterest: Great for businesses with highly visual products.
TikTok: Trendy, but it may not be necessary for every business.
Threads: It's brand new and could, really should, replace Twitter. But it's new so be on the cutting edge, not the bleeding edge. Stay tuned for more about Threads.
Skip it altogether:
Twitter, now "X": It's a 'no thank you' for me on this social media platform. Far too many distractions for small business owners in Baraboo trying to capitalize on audiences looking for great, local products and services. This is not it.
By utilizing apps like Canva and VideoLeap, along with an understanding of the social media platforms that matter most for your business, you can lay the foundation for a successful digital marketing strategy. As you grow, you can consider enlisting the help of a digital marketing specialist to take your efforts to the next level. But for now, take these first steps and start crafting engaging content that captures your audience's attention right here in Baraboo, Wisconsin!
Wait a minute... But I've read about people making serious money on TikTok and Pinterest. I've got a handle on my Insta and FB. What if I am looking to expand onto another platform? What should I be doing and why?
Stay tuned for the next blog on leveraging TikTok and Pinterest!
Thanks for reading!
Be sure to comment with any questions or topics you'd like to see covered in the future.
Zachariah Strong
#BarabooWebDesigner #BarabooGraphicDesigner #BarabooDigitalGuy
