As a mom navigating the whirlwind of teenage driving adventures yes, we've survived three car accidents in just six months! I understand the juggling act many of you face, especially when it comes to budgeting for social media in times when every penny counts
This month’s edition of The Social Scoop dives into a crucial question: How much budget each month for social media marketing? With belts tightened, understa effective social media marketing is more important than ever
SOCIAL MEDIA: A NECESSARY INVESTMENT
Long gone are the days when a small budget could yield big growth on social media. We're no longer in the era of $300-$1,000 monthly budgets doing the trick. Today, the digital landscape demands more creativity, more engagement, and yes, more investment if you aim to see real returns on Engagement (ROE) and Investment (ROI)
BUDGETING FOR GROWTH: THREE OPTIONS
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The Starter Strategy ($1,500 - $3,000 per month): Perfect for businesses just dipping their toes into social media waters This budget covers basic management, content creation, and a sprinkle of engagement to boost reach
The Growth-Focused Strategy ($3,000 - $5,000 per month): For those ready to ramp up their game, this budget expands to include things like engaging video content and strategic ad spends to widen reach and deepen customer interaction
The Scaling Strategy ($5,000 and up per month): Aimed at businesses that are ready to make social media a central part of their growth strategy, this budget allows for comprehensive campaigns, influencer collabs, and advanced analytics
LIFE IN THE FAST LANE: TEENS, CARS, AND CONTENT
Between meetings, I often find myself giving impromptu lectures on safe driving from the passenger seat of my teen's car talk about engaging content! Managing a business and family life with such high stakes (and insurance premiums) might be hair-raising at times, but it also brings unexpected joys and laughter (especially when no one is calling "shotgun" on the way to school!)
As we navigate these challenging times together, remember that investing in social media isn't just necessary it's crucial for growth. Let’s steer our businesses towards success with the same skill (and hopefully more luck) that we manage our teenage drivers
Warm regards,
keisha from the ceo
Keisha Olds CEO & Founder, Southern Social Editor, The Social Scoop
Instagram's New “Send" Strategy
Harnessing DM Conversations to Boost Organic Reach
Instagram has taken a fresh approach to amplify user engagement and content visibility on its platform According to Instagram's chief, Adam Mosseri, the new strategy focuses on enhancing direct message (DM) interactions, which the platform now categorizes under "sends." This initiative aims to tweak the algorithm to favor content that users are motivated to share directly with others
Mosseri emphasizes the importance of creating shareable content This means crafting posts that are not only engaging but also evoke emotions strong enough to prompt a 'send' Here are key strategies and emotional tones to consider to maximize your Instagram content’s reach organically
Five Happy Emotions to Evoke in Instagram Content
To leverage Instagram's algorithm effectively, focus on generating content that triggers these five positive emotions:
1 2 3 4 5
JOY:
Content that brings a smile or laughter, such as heartwarming animal videos, joyful reunions, or surprise moments
GRATITUDE:
Posts that express thankfulness, perhaps through customer shoutouts, behind-the-scenes acknowledgments, or community support stories
INSPIRATION:
Share stories or quotes that motivate and uplift, driving others to action or to pursue their goals
AMUSEMENT:
Light-hearted, funny content that’s relatable and prompts a "this made me think of you" reaction
NOSTALGIA:
Throwbacks or content that reminiscences the good old days, evoking warm, fond memories that users want to share with old friends or family
Examples of Positively Emotional Content
Creating content that triggers these emotions can significantly increase its likelihood of being shared. Here are a few practical examples:
JOYFUL PET INTERACTIONS:
A video series of dogs reacting to their owners coming home The unbridled joy pets exhibit can be contagious and highly shareable.
CUSTOMER APPRECIATION POSTS:
Featuring testimonials or stories where your products or services changed someone's life for the better This not only promotes gratitude but also authenticates your brand’s impact
DAILY DOSE OF INSPIRATION:
Morning motivational quotes or success stories from community members These can become daily sharable content for followers seeking inspiration
"REMEMBER WHEN" SERIES:
Regular posts that bring back moments from popular culture in the 90s or early 2000s, inviting followers to tag friends who shared those moments with them.
FUNNY FAMILY BLOOPERS:
Sharing light-hearted family or work bloopers can create a sense of amusement and relatability, prompting shares amongst friends and colleagues
By focusing on these emotional triggers, your content is more likely to resonate on a personal level, encouraging Instagram users to hit 'send' This strategy not only enhances your content's reach but also builds a deeper connection with your audience, leveraging organic interactions to boost visibility Always aim to create content that feels personal, authentic, and, above all, share-worthy to make the most out of Instagram's evolving algorithm.
Shari Arnold & Third Coast Salt featured client
Shari Arnold is more than just the founder and owner of Third Coast Salt Wellness Spa in Mount Juliet, TN; she is the heartbeat of a business that stands out for its exceptional customer service and charming atmosphere Arnold’s magnetic personality and dedication to wellness have enabled her to grow her business consistently, becoming a beloved figure in the community.
Third Coast Salt isn't just a spa; it's a sanctuary where relaxation meets holistic healing The services offered go beyond traditional spa treatments, incorporating innovative wellness experiences like salt therapy, which is central to the spa's unique appeal. Arnold has carefully curated a range of services, including facials and massages, and laser treatments designed not just to pamper but to promote deeper health benefits
team skillfully harness the power of social media to engage with the community and attract new clients Their Instagram is a testament to their marketing savvy, filled with beautifully branded photos and funny, engaging videos that showcase their services and the serene environment of the spa This online presence not only highlights the spa's offerings but also extends its reach, bringing the unique charm of Third Coast Salt to a broader audience
Arnold’s journey in the wellness industry is characterized by her resilience and adaptability, which have been crucial in navigating the challenges of running a small business. Her ability to connect with clients and understand their needs is evident in the meticulous attention to detail and the personalized care that the spa offers This customercentric approach is a testament to her philosophy that true wellness encompasses both the body and the soul.
Bringing the Flavor of Italy to Life Digitally with PennePazze
At Southern Social, our food shoots are more than just capturing dishes; they're about passion, artistry, and authentic storytelling For the past six months, we've collaborated with PennePazze, an authentic Italian restaurant with locations in L&L Market Nashville and Murfreesboro Our sessions are always a delightful blend of good food and great company, leaving us with full bellies and camera rolls brimming with engaging content
LIGHTING AND ANGLES: ENHANCING THE AESTHETIC
1,136 18.5K Posts Followers
6,385 Following
PennePazze-Official CrazygoodItaliancuisine
Good lighting is essential in food photography We utilize natural light at PennePazze to accentuate the fresh ingredients and vibrant colors, creating appetizing and inviting images. The right angle is just as crucial; whether it's an overhead shot for a spread of antipasti or a side view to highlight the layers of a hearty lasagna, finding the perfect perspective makes all the difference
STYLING, PROPS, AND PERSONALITY: TELLING A STORY
Our shoots also focus on the environment and the people Using rustic props and authentic Italian decor, we create a visual story that complements PennePazze's culinary offerings. More importantly, including images of the staff and chefs adds a personal touch, showcasing the heart and soul behind the food This approach not only illustrates the restaurant's vibrant culture but also builds a connection with the audience people buy from brands they feel they know and trust.
ENGAGE AND CONNECT: CAPTURING MORE THAN JUST FOOD
Our goal is to not just showcase delicious meals but to also convey the warmth and tradition of Italian dining This narrative approach helps in creating a deeper emotional connection with the audience, encouraging them to experience the authenticity and joy of PennePazze themselves
If you're looking to capture the essence of your brand with professional photography, engaging video content, and expert social media management, give us a shout at Southern Social! We're here to help you tell your story and connect with your audience in meaningful ways
Harness the Power of Influencers
Drive Engagement with Authenticity and Humor
In today's digital landscape, influencers are more than just trendsetters they are pivotal in shaping consumer behaviors and driving engagement toward brands. Authenticity remains key, but it's the entertaining and engaging content that captures the ever-decreasing attention spans of audiences. Running a business is a marathon, not a sprint, and leveraging the right influencers can bring your brand into the spotlight faster and more effectively
BEHIND-THE-SCENES EXCLUSIVES:
HUMOR WINS HEARTS:
Choose local influencers who excel in creating content that's not just informative but also hilariously engaging Laughter is a universal language that can bridge the gap between a brand and its potential customers. When influencers use humor in their posts, it increases shareability and relatability, boosting your brand's visibility and appeal
Invite influencers to share behind-the-scenes content from your business Whether it’s a sneak peek into a day at your company, a funny 'how it's made' video, or bloopers from their own sponsored content shoots, these glimpses can humanize your brand and create a stronger connection with the audience This transparency not only fosters trust but also keeps viewers engaged and curious about what’s coming next
INTERACTIVE CHALLENGES AND GIVEAWAYS:
Capitalize on the influencer’s reach by having them host challenges or giveaways that require audience participation. This could be anything from recreating a recipe, using a product in a fun way, or sharing their own photos using a branded hashtag These activities encourage active engagement and can lead to increased traffic and interactions on your own social media channels
By choosing the right local influencers who align with your brand's ethos and understand the art of engaging an audience, you can amplify your reach and build a stronger, more connected community around your business. Remember, in the realm of social media, people follow people not just to buy what they’re selling but to be entertained and engaged. Let’s make business fun again!
Meet Lila Bishop
Nashville's vibrant landscape is known for its rich cultural heritage, music, and now, its dynamic marketing scene Southern Social, a leading marketing agency in the region, recently welcomed a fresh face to their team Lila Bishop. With a degree in Strategic Communications from The Ohio State University, Lila's journey to Southern Social is a testament to her passion and dedication to the industry
For Lila, joining Southern Social was more than just securing a job; it was the fulfillment of a dream "I've been following Southern Social for months," she shares, her excitement palpable "This agency is everything I aspired to be a part of women-owned, innovative, and working with clients in markets I'm passionate about, including retail, food and drink, and service" Southern Social's commitment to these industries resonated deeply with Lila, making it her ideal professional destination.
Lila's role at Southern Social is as dynamic as it is creative "Every day is different," she enthuses "I love how creative I can be in my role It's so fun to collaborate with all the different clients, and it's the best to see the amazing results they reach with our help" Her enthusiasm for social media and the marketing industry shines through as she navigates the ever-evolving digital landscape, exploring new trends and strategies to deliver exceptional outcomes for her clients
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"EVERY DAY IS DIFFERENT," SHE ENTHUSES "I LOVE HOW CREATIVE I CAN BE IN MY ROLE.”
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Lila's personal interests and talents paint a picture of a well-rounded, vibrant individual A true globetrotter, she has traveled to over half of the United States and visited nine countries, embracing diverse cultures and experiences This love for exploration extends into her creative pursuits as well An artist at heart, Lila finds joy in drawing shoes, with colored pencils being her favorite medium Her artistic flair is complemented by her passion for fashion, making her a true connoisseur of style
At home, Lila is a dedicated plant mom, always surrounded by fresh flowers that add a touch of nature's beauty to her space Her love for cooking is deeply rooted in her upbringing, where food played a significant role in her family's culture This culinary passion not only fuels her creativity in the kitchen but also enhances her understanding of the food and drink markets she so passionately works with at Southern Social
As Lila embarks on this exciting new chapter with Southern Social, her enthusiasm and multifaceted talents promise to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to the agency and overall industry. Her journey from Ohio State University to Nashville's thriving marketing scene is a testament to her hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment to excellence
In Lila Bishop, Southern Social has found not just an employee, but a vibrant, creative force ready to make waves in the marketing industry Her story is a reminder that with passion, dedication, and a bit of wanderlust, dreams do come true. Welcome to Nashville, Lila we can't wait to see the amazing things you'll achieve at Southern Social!
Work with Us
BRAND PHOTOGRAPHY
Capturing the essence of your brand with professional, highquality images tailored to elevate your visual identity.
INFLUENCER MARKETING
Connecting your brand with influential personalities to amplify your reach and authenticity in the market
COPYWRITING
Crafting compelling content that speaks to your audience, from website copy to social media posts and marketing materials.
VIDEOGRAPHY
From conceptualization to postproduction, we create compelling videos that resonate with your audience and enhance your brand story.
EVENT PLANNING AND COVERAGE
Expertise in orchestrating events and providing comprehensive photo, video, and social media coverage to maximize exposure
DESIGN
Our creative team provides everything from logo design to complete visual branding guides that reflect your brand’s ethos.
Why Choose Southern Social?
At Southern Social, we offer a full-service, white glove experience that allows you to enjoy the benefits of a comprehensive digital marketing department without
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT
Our team manages your presence on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, ensuring consistent engagement and growth.
MARKETING CONSULTING
Strategic consulting to refine your marketing approach, identify opportunities, and optimize your brand’s market position
PAID MEDIA
Effective management of paid advertising campaigns across multiple channels to drive traffic and conversions.
Your Benefits Include:
DESIGNATED ACCOUNT MANAGER:
Your primary point of contact who understands your business and coordinates all services.
REGULAR COMMUNICATION:
Weekly check-ins and regular updates to keep you informed and involved
ANALYTIC REPORTING:
We provide detailed weekly and monthly reports to track progress and refine strategies
IN-PERSON MEETINGS:
Whether face-to-face or via Zoom, we believe in building strong client relationships through direct communication.
OUR PROMISE:
We treat our clients as partners in business, aligning our strategies with your goals to ensure mutual success With Southern Social, your digital marketing is in expert hands.
