In today’s digital landscape, Snapchat remains a powerhouse platform with over 400 million daily active users. Yet, many brands struggle to gain traction on this dynamic social media channel. If your Snapchat marketing efforts aren’t delivering the results you want, you’re not alone – but it’s time to turn things around.
Common Mistakes That Are Holding Your Brand Back
1. Treating Snapchat Like Other Social Platforms
The biggest mistake brands make is applying the same strategy they use on Instagram or Facebook to Snapchat. Snapchat’s audience expects raw, authentic, and in-the-moment content. Those polished corporate posts that work on LinkedIn? They’re likely driving away your Snapchat audience.
How to Fix It:
- Create platform-specific content that embraces Snapchat’s spontaneous nature
- Use vertical video format optimized for mobile viewing
- Incorporate trending sounds, filters, and effects that are popular on Snapchat
2. Ignoring Your Target Demographics
While Snapchat has users of all ages, its core demographic remains Gen Z and younger millennials. If your content doesn’t resonate with this audience, you’re essentially talking to an empty room.
How to Fix It:
- Research your target audience’s interests and behaviors on Snapchat
- Create content that aligns with current trends and youth culture
- Use language and references that connect with younger audiences
- Post during peak engagement times for your demographic
3. Lack of Consistent Posting Schedule
Sporadic posting is a common pitfall. Snapchat’s algorithm favors accounts that maintain regular activity, and inconsistent posting makes it harder to build a loyal following.
How to Fix It:
- Develop a content calendar specifically for Snapchat
- Post at least 3-5 times per week
- Use Snapchat’s scheduling features to maintain consistency
- Create content in batches to ensure you always have something to share
Strategies to Revitalize Your Snapchat Presence
1. Leverage Snapchat’s Unique Features
Many brands underutilize Snapchat’s native features, missing out on engagement opportunities.
Key Features to Implement:
- Snap Maps for location-based marketing
- Custom AR filters and lenses for brand awareness
- Snapchat Stories for behind-the-scenes content
- Spotlight for reaching new audiences
2. Create Interactive Content
Static content doesn’t perform well on Snapchat. The platform thrives on interaction and engagement.
Engagement Ideas:
- Polls and quizzes
- Q&A sessions
- User-generated content challenges
- Exclusive promo codes or offers
- Behind-the-scenes looks at your business
3. Embrace Authenticity
Today’s consumers, especially younger generations, value authenticity over perfection.
Tips for Authentic Content:
- Show real people and real moments
- Share company culture and team personalities
- Address mistakes and challenges openly
- Create relatable, human content
Measuring and Improving Performance
Key Metrics to Track:
- Story views and completion rates
- Screenshot rates
- Reply and engagement rates
- Follower growth rate
- Time spent viewing content
Tools for Success:
- Snapchat Analytics
- A/B testing different content types
- Engagement tracking tools
- Competitor analysis
Action Plan for Implementation
- Audit Your Current Strategy
- Review past performance
- Identify content gaps
- Analyze competitor success stories
- Develop New Content Pillars
- Educational content
- Entertainment
- Behind-the-scenes
- User-generated content
- Promotional content (limited to 20% of total posts)
- Create a Content Calendar
- Plan content themes
- Schedule regular posting times
- Include important dates and events
- Allow flexibility for trending topics
Conclusion
Success on Snapchat doesn’t happen overnight, but by addressing these common mistakes and implementing the suggested fixes, you can begin to see improvement in your brand’s performance. Remember that Snapchat marketing tips are an iterative process – continuously test, measure, and adjust your strategy based on what resonates with your audience.
The key is to stay authentic, maintain consistency, and create content that adds value to your audience’s Snapchat experience. With these adjustments, your brand can transform its Snapchat presence from failing to flourishing.
Final Tips for Long-term Success
- Stay updated with Snapchat’s new features and updates
- Engage with your audience regularly through replies and messages
- Collaborate with influencers who align with your brand values
- Keep testing new content formats and ideas
- Monitor analytics to understand what works best for your brand
Remember, what works for other platforms may not work for Snapchat. Focus on creating a unique strategy that leverages the platform’s strengths while staying true to your brand’s voice and values.