Maybe Dance Instructors Don’t Need Facebook Pages
Facebook may seem like the go-to social media platform these days, but it’s certainly not the only option.[/caption]
When it comes to self-promotion, most dance instructors assume that they need a Facebook page in order to maintain a strong web presence, and spread the word about their services and upcoming events.
But while it’s true that Facebook can be an invaluable platform –for some people, it’s important to realize that in many ways, this social media platform isn’t everything that it’s cracked up to be.
Take, for example –the extent of your reach on Facebook –there’s a good chance that most of your updates, just aren’t making it in front of all of your followers. Then there’s the fact that maintaining an active Facebook page can be time-consuming –and requires you to spend a significant portion of time each week sifting through online content, and posting photos and updates in hopes of boosting your engagement rate.
The fact is that for many dance instructors –Facebook isn’t necessarily the best place to promote yourself. Sure, it’s the biggest social media platform in the world, but that doesn’t mean that it’s the best one. As a dance instructor, there’s a good chance that in order to get new clients –and keep your name out there, you’re going to want to diversify and consider bringing a few different marketing options on board.
While it’s true that many dance instructors have used Facebook –with great success, it’s worth recognizing some of the areas where Facebook falls short, and looking to diversify your online presence, to help you reach your marketing goals.
Here’s a look at three ways that dance instructors can reach out, and get noticed –effectively, beyond Facebook.
Finding New Clients: Your Website
It’s estimated that 85 percent of consumers search out new businesses online –instead of using traditional options such as newspapers or ads. People that are looking for a new dance instructor will head online to find one –but they are unlikely to head to Facebook, instead, they’ll probably go straight to Google, and type in “dance instructors in [their town].” For this reason, having an excellent website that’s optimized for specific keywords can help increase your chances of getting new clients. So don’t neglect your own website in favor of a Facebook account.
Communicating With Existing Clients: Email Newsletters
Want to promote upcoming classes or advertise a special offer? While you can try posting your information on Facebook, sadly, most of your followers won’t even get the message. In fact, according to studies, only about 2 percent of page fans end up seeing a page’s posts. This is because Facebook has updated its algorithm in recent years to encourage businesses to pay for advertising to extend their reach. Instead of relying on Facebook, consider using email marketing. This allows you to be certain that your subscribers are getting your messages. It’s also worth noting that when it comes to marketing, email is the preferred form of contact for many people.
Promote Your Services Effectively: Engage in Targeted Marketing
Instead of relying solely on your Facebook –and hoping that your updates to make it in front of people who are interested, consider engaging in targeted marketing. Determining who your demographic is, and promoting yourself in places where they’re likely to be will drastically improve your success rate. At Dance Hub, we provide a central location that brings together dance instructors with people who are interested in dance. List your services and experience, and then wait for potential students to find you. Another great way to find interested clients is cross marketing –teaming up with another business that has the same target market that you do. For example, you could join forces with a local theater –and consider displaying some banners or flyers for each other, informing each other’s’ patrons of upcoming classes or events.
At the end of the day, many instructors find Facebook to be beneficial –but it’s important to determine for yourself whether or not a Facebook page will help you to reach your marketing goals –or if there’s another option that may be more time efficient as well as cost-effective. While Facebook can be useful for some objectives –such as helping to build your business’ reputation or establish your credibility, in many cases, there are other marketing options that may be far more effective. It’s all about your preferences –what you’re hoping to get from your marketing strategy –and how much time and money you’re willing to invest.
How do you promote yourself as a dance instructor?
