There’s a new social media network in town, with Meta launching Threads, their text-based alternative to Twitter. With an established and growing user base of over 100 million users, Threads offers small businesses another way to connect with customers meaningfully. But is it a good fit for your small business?
What is Threads?
Threads is the latest product from Mark Zuckerberg and tech giant Meta. It’s a standalone messaging app that launched in July 2023 and functions in much the same way as Twitter. It’s quick and easy to sign up for, with users able to log in via their Instagram account and import their existing followers.
Threads is available worldwide except for the European Union, where regulatory issues are currently being resolved.
How Does Threads Work?
First and foremost, Threads is a text-based app, but it’s also quick and intuitive to post images and videos. Using the slick mobile app, users can make text posts of up to 500 characters, carousels featuring up to 10 images, and videos up to five minutes in length. Gif lovers are well catered to, with the Giphy app integrated directly into Threads.
Threads for Small Business
In a world where Twitter, LinkedIn, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube already exist, managing your small business social media presence feels like a full-time job. It’s understandable to wonder if you can add another social media network. Your business can make a real impact by jumping on the Threads bandwagon early. Here are some of the advantages of signing up:
- The Early Adopter Advantage – without the negativity that’s swirling around Twitter, Threads offers a blank canvas for businesses and an excellent opportunity to carve out a niche for your brand. While plenty of businesses have already jumped on Threads, plenty of prime digital real estate remains to be claimed.
- The Algorithm – Threads has been highly responsive to brand accounts, weaving them into user’s timelines that show interest in related topics. Getting in at this early stage could see your business enjoy reach and engagement levels that other platforms charge money for.
- Roadmap for Growth – The Threads experience has been barebones so far, with no ability to view the platform on a computer, no chronological timeline or way to send direct messages to users. Meta has been upfront with their roadmap for making these additions, and these new features will help to continue the platform’s growth trajectory.
How to Develop a Business Strategy for Threads
Every business is unique, and every business has social media platforms they focus on. Threads is a newcomer in this space, and creating a strategy that works for your business will need some trial and error.
Threads is an excellent fit for your business if you tend to perform well on Instagram already. The two platforms are intertwined with a massive overlap between the userbases. Here are some pointers for developing your Threads strategy:
Get Visual
Sure, Threads is a text-based app, but it launched out of the gate with industry-leading photo and video functionality. Image carousels look amazing on the platform, while the built-in video player is one of the smoothest we’ve seen on a social media app. Take advantage of this functionality and use it to showcase visuals from your business. They’ll shine on the feed and make your business look great.
Make Users Feel Special
Don’t fall into the trap of using Threads as a broadcast medium. Your feed can’t just be ads for products. Give your followers a VIP experience by sharing exclusive offers, sneak peeks of new products and collaborations. Creative content like behind-the-scenes videos and images of how your products are made also score highly with users. Make your feed enjoyable – your follower count and engagement will go through the roof.
Join the Conversation
Don’t be afraid to search for terms about your business or industry and jump into conversations with users. Threads is fantastic for sharing your thoughts and having conversations. Avoid giving users the hard sell about your business. Jump in, share your expertise, and forge connections with others. Engaging with others with help to grow a community around your brand.
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