Hashtags are everywhere.

If you have chosen to not be part of the 40 percent of the global population using social media, chances are you have still seen a hashtag somewhere: on tv, in the paper, on the internet, at your local stores and restaurants, and at events. The use of hashtags isn’t just on the Twitter platform, it can now be found on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, Google+, blogs, and more.

Follow the crowd?

Hashtags are a way for users to find topics that are relevant or useful as they search for information. By using hashtags, you can increase your reach and grow your followers. But just how do you go about using hashtags when promoting your personal brand? First, don’t be afraid to use hashtags. I’m sure you have heard throughout life to follow your own path and not to be a follower, right? But this is social media, you want to follow what’s popular in order to be part of that trend.

Basic info for the newbie hashtagger

#Trending

To promote your personal brand, think about the work that you are sharing and how it can be categorized using keywords for optimization. These same keywords can be used to fit your hashtag(s) for your own brand. I have often found it helpful to search on hashtags first, to find out which ones are trending.

#KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid)

Ok, that may have come across harsh, but it’s an important concept. Too many hashtags can result in sensory overload and make the user overlook the entire point. The hashtags should clearly convey your content. A vague pointless hashtag does nothing to promote your brand, therefore hashtag wisely.

#BeSocial

All social media platforms support hashtags (except for LinkedIn), so don’t be shy – use hashtags! It cannot be overstated how much it will help your brand by exposing your content to a wider audience.

#Connect

Use hashtags to engage your followers. Conversational and humorous hashtags can help others connect with your brand. This Social Pilot blog makes a great point with the more comfortable your followers feel with your brand the more likely they will be to engage with you, resulting in likes, shares, mentions.

Happy Hashtagging!

While this is just a cursory introduction to hashtags, please don’t be afraid of hashtags. Like anything else, the more you use them, the more you will be familiar and get the hang of it, so go on and add a hashtag or two. Happy hashtagging!

Category: Blogging, Integrating with Traditional Marketing