EXPAND CLIENT NETWORK USING HASHTAGS

Everyone is glued to their smartphones, checking the latest tidbits on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or other social media site. Statista projects the number of mobile phone users worldwide to hit the five billion mark by 2019. Referring to this finding, it makes sense for a financial advisor to use social media and befriend hashtags to expand their client network.

According to Oxford Dictionary, hashtag is a word or phrase which comes before the hash sign. It conveys or indicates a message about a particular topic. This is normally seen on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and other social media sites.

For an entity that uses hashtags, this can appear like a spam since people or companies tend to overuse it. This instrument enables them to trail trending topics and express their opinion on a subject and attract potential clients. If properly used, it can help a business gain new customers and connect with them.

Use hashtags the right way

One of the easiest ways to build a client base is to use trending topics. We normally see this on Twitter, a panel showing the most talked-about topics on the social networking site, which can be found by clicking the search icon. The list is updated in real-time. A user can use the trending topics and its corresponding hashtags when promoting something or sharing information.

Here is an example of how a hashtag is used. Franz and Joy, a young married couple who lives in California, are looking for ways become financially secured especially in their golden years. Upon clicking the hashtag #retirement, they saw the latest advertisement of Company XYZ that offers a comprehensive retirement package. Out of curiosity, the couple called the investment firm and the rest is history.

Parting words...

Hashtag is a powerful tool for social media strategies, provided it is used efficiently and precisely. However, a firm has to come up with a content that is relevant and sensible. The shorter the hashtag or post is, the better; but not too short or long.