January 02, 2025

#1104 Simplifying Your Approach to Social Media | Peg Fitzpatrick

11 minutes

Sometimes, managing social media can feel like you are on a hamster wheel. As a small business owner you’re running fast, but it doesn't seem as if you are getting anywhere? In my chat with Peg Fitzpatrick, we focused on simple and practical tips. From rethinking which platforms are worth your time to using Pinterest as a hidden traffic booster, we covered a lot of ground in just 10 minutes

Here’s what Peg had to say:

Skip TikTok—It’s Not Worth the Hassle

Peg tackled TikTok head-on and made a great point: while TikTok can be fun, it’s also a huge time commitment. And with ongoing political concerns around the platform, it could disappear tomorrow. If you’re already stretched thin, focus on Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts instead. Both offer the same short-form video format but require less time and carry fewer risks. It’s like choosing a dependable truck over a flashy sports car—you know it’ll get you where you need to go.

LinkedIn: Your Secret Networking Goldmine

LinkedIn isn’t just for job hunters; it’s a hidden gem for business networking, especially if you’re a local business owner. Peg’s advice? Update your profile, use a recent photo, and write a bio that clearly tells people what you do. Then, connect with other local businesses. You may find partners, collaborators, or even just a circle of business friends who get what it’s like to run a small business. Think of LinkedIn as your digital chamber of commerce—you never know who you’ll meet.

Pinterest: The Platform That Keeps on Giving

Now, here’s a platform many of us overlook. Unlike the high-maintenance world of Instagram or Facebook, Pinterest is like planting a garden. You plant a pin, and months later, people are still finding it, clicking on it, and visiting your website. And the best part? Every pin links directly to your site, making it one of the few places on social media where traffic flows your way. Peg described Pinterest as a slow simmer—it might not be the flashiest way to build traffic, but it’s steady and long-lasting. If you’re already creating content, pinning it on Pinterest is a simple, low-effort way to extend its reach.

Perfect the Art of Short-Form Content

Don’t let short videos fool you—creating great short-form content takes skill. Peg pointed out that keeping things concise is actually harder than it seems. Think of it like writing a postcard instead of a letter; you need to get to the heart of your message fast. But with people’s attention spans shrinking, investing the time to master short videos can make a big difference. Whether it’s Reels, YouTube Shorts, or those Pinterest clips, focus on being clear and engaging in 10-20 seconds.

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