It can feel like there is a never ending to-do list when it comes to social media marketing. And, honestly, there is, you can never spend too much time engaging and growing you community — though not at the expense of other priorities of course. So, in order to not feel completely overwhelmed with work, here are my top five tips for a successful social media strategy.

1. Re-evaluate your social platforms

If you haven’t updated your social media strategy in several years, it’s time to reevaluate your platforms based on your audience. Instagram and YouTube for millennials. Facebook for older demographics. Twitter and LinkedIn for corporate, B2B and professionals. It’s important to have a presence across at least 2-3 but pick one to really engage on.

2. Prioritize Authenticity and Values

"People don’t buy what you do, they buy why you do it” - this Simon Sinek quote is true as ever. Consumers no longer respond to traditional marketing strategies. Be confident as the face of your brand, highlight your team members, support local community and demonstrate the values you stand for.

3. Make it a conversation

Don’t talk at your online audiences. Ask questions, get to know them, request feedback and opinions.

4. Remember, we don’t own our social media

But we do own our email lists. Focus on driving social traffic to your website and offer a free resource aka freebie to encourage your viewers to subscribe to your email list. You can reach them with much more customized and relevant content in their inbox when you know more about them.

5. Invest in a cohesive brand strategy

If your website, social profiles, brick and mortar store and other marketing material don’t look fresh and cohesive it’s time to bring in a branding expert so that no matter where your audience engages with you, they recognize your content and it stands out in the sea of brands vying for attention.

These tips were selected for a piece by Nicole Dieker on BusinessCreditCards.com. Read the full post here