Hashtagging. A guide for local business owners

Charlotte Rothwell

Hashtags. Those little clusters of words preceded by a this sign (#). You see them everywhere on social media – Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok. But what are they actually for, and how can a local UK business use them to their advantage?


What are Hashtags?

Simply put, hashtags are keywords or phrases preceded by the # symbol. They act as digital labels, allowing users to easily find and group content related to a specific topic. For example, #London, #ManchesterUnited, or #Pizza.


Why are Hashtags Important for Local Businesses?

Hashtags are incredibly powerful tools for local businesses. Here's why:

  • Increased Visibility: When you use relevant hashtags, your posts become discoverable by users searching for those specific topics. This expands your reach beyond your existing followers.
  • Targeted Audience: By using location-based hashtags (#Liverpool, #SouthLiverpool, #LiverpoolFoodies), you can specifically target people in your local area who are interested in your products or services.
  • Brand Awareness: Consistent use of unique brand-related hashtags (#[YourBusinessName], #[YourBrandSlogan]) helps build brand recognition and encourages user engagement.
  • Customer Engagement: Hashtags can spark conversations and encourage user interaction. Run hashtag contests or campaigns to get your community involved.
  • Market Research: By monitoring which hashtags perform best, you can gain valuable insights into your target audience's interests and online behaviour.


Top Tips for Using Hashtags Effectively:

  • Keep it Local: Prioritise location-specific hashtags to connect with your immediate community.
  • Be Relevant: Use hashtags that accurately reflect your business and the content you're sharing.
  • Do Your Research: Spend some time exploring popular hashtags in your niche and location. Tools like Hashtagify.me can be helpful.
  • Don't Overdo It: A few well-chosen hashtags are more effective than a long list of irrelevant ones.
  • Be Creative: Create unique, branded hashtags to encourage user-generated content.
  • Track Your Results: Monitor your hashtag performance to see what's working and what's not.


Example:

Imagine you own a coffee shop in Liverpool. You could use hashtags like:

  • #LiverpoolCoffee
  • #CoffeeShopLiverpool
  • #SouthLiverpool
  • #LiverpoolLife
  • #[YourCoffeeShopName]


By strategically incorporating these hashtags into your social media posts, you can increase your visibility among local coffee lovers and attract new customers to your shop.


In Conclusion

Hashtags are a simple yet powerful tool that can significantly boost your social media presence and help your local business thrive. By using them effectively, you can connect with your target audience, increase brand visibility, and drive customer engagement. So, get started today and see the magic happen!

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