The Maker Movement is exciting for traditional companies for a multitude of reasons. But one of the most intriguing aspects of the maker community is their innovative use of social media as free advertising, and the almost complete and total rejection of traditional advertising. So how do you as a company find these makers to be able to reach them? Since they're not easily found in print or television ads, you're going to have to go to them. A great starting point is by having an online presence and actively finding makers across social media channels in a smart and effective way.
So at this point, utilizing Facebook should be a no-brainer. And the fact that we're telling you that makers use Facebook should also come as no surprise. Makers know that they HAVE to have a brand page if they want their business to succeed. Brand pages give makers helpful insights into
post performance and audience demographic. Makers utilize Facebook to communicate what they're working on to their followers, show off photos of of their latest projects, network and generally interact with their followers. Makers can even use Facebook as a tool for aquiring new clients. You're going to have to do a little digging to find makers on Facebook, but once you do, it will be well worth your time.
Instagram is one of, if not the most popular social media platform for the maker community in that it allows makers to utilize visually appealing photography to grow their brand and advertise their products. Makers should be using a business account and doing it in a way where they can showcase their life as a maker, while also keeping what they're making as the focal point of the account. What's great about Instagram is that when you follow one maker, you'll get a dozen or more niche suggestions for more makers to connect with. If you have an engaging and creative business account, makers will start to follow you based on your status and captivating content and before long, you'll start to reap the rewards.
While there are character limits and hashtags to contend with, Twitter can be one of the most useful networks for makers trying to connect with a new audience. So this is a prime place to reach out and network with modern makers. Makers tend to use Twitter similarly to how they use Facebook, but with an added combination of their own custom content and posts from people they find interesting or on brand. Be engaging and conversational on Twitter and ALWAYS reply promptly when sent a message or tagged in a tweet, Makers want to see that your company is responsive and up to date on social media.
Makers use Pinterest primarily for two things: to display their work and to get inspiration. In displaying their work, makers will link to actual posts or projects on their website to sell their product. While Pinterest is not the place for text-heavy posts, it does allow for sponsored pins and business accounts. So connect with makers and your pins will be in their Pinterest orbit before long.
