Internet marketing today requires that you know the basics of hashtagging to be effective. Not only are hashtags used on Internet, but TV and radio commercials reference hashtags. Billboards and magazine print advertising show hashtags. Even the most novice Internet user has heard comments about hashtags, but the topic can be confusing when you aren’t familiar with the basics of hasthtagging. Here are some answers that can help.
What are hashtags
Hashtags are words that are preceded by the pound sign (#) used in social media. They can be used to group similar topics, promote your brand and services, create searchable links, organize posts and to signal key words for your practice. Knowing the basics of hashtagging is one of the most important social media communication tools.
Where to use hashtags
Hashtags originated in Twitter. Use has now expanded to Instagram, Facebook, Google+, Tumblr, Flikr and Pinterest. In addition, they have made a leap into sites that are external to social media posts such as blogs, YouTube and other video sites.
Why use hashtags
When hashtags are used properly, it’s easy to find and be found. You can quickly find pictures, social media posts and other hashtagged content on social media sites and in Google searches. In addition, your practice will appear in more frequently in search results when you use relevant hashtags in Google+ posts.
How to choose your hashtags
There is no comprehensive list of hashtags, so look before you tag. Check social media sites, search the Internet and review the hashtags that your competitors use before you select hashtags for your practice. Typically, you’ll want to include your location (#practicenamecitystate) and (#drfirstnamelastnamecitystate) in a hashtag. You can also select hashtags for your key procedures and products so that your information is found easier. Here are some tips on the basics of hashtagging.
- No spaces are used. Multiple words are grouped together as one word.
- Capital letters may be used to differentiate words and make it easier to read at a glance.
- Numbers can be used.
- Punctuation marks and symbols are not supported (that means no ampersands, periods, apostrophes, etc.
- A good hashtag is relevant, memorable and short
- You create your own hashtags by putting the pound sign (#) before a word or group of words.
- Use only hashtags that are relevant to the post topic. Overuse is confusing.
How often to use hashtags
Consistently use relevant hashtags in every social media post, in your blogs, videos and images. The more you use your hashtags, the more opportunities for appearing in search results. That is one of the most important basics of hashtagging.
These are just a few of the basics of hashtagging. Even if you don’t use Twitter, you need to master hashtagging to improve your Google+ local listing posts. If you’re not comfortable with hashtagging or need help in getting started, contact PUMC. We can accelerate your learning curve to successful hashtagging. Call us if you need a boost to master the basics of hashtagging.