Making Social Media Work for Your Event
Hosting events is one way a business can stand out among the crowd. Event hosting can generate interest creatively while also giving everyone a reason to come together to celebrate a common interest. One way to increase interest in an upcoming event is to create a unique hashtag to boost your online presence before, during and after the event.
Why Hashtag an Event?
Planning an event is no joke! It takes dedication, preparation, organization…and all the other “-ations” words that embody the meticulous, detailed process. By creating a unique hashtag for your event, you are providing a social media stage to amplify and promote your agenda throughout the process. This engagement with your followers will help to create momentum and interest in what you are doing before the event even occurs.
Event Hashtag Basics
A hashtag is any word or unbroken group of words with a # in front that is utilized on social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. A hashtag links your individual posts with all the other posts containing that same hashtag. This strategy allows all the posts to live in one space where users and followers can quickly see the information associated with the tag while also providing greater exposure and longevity.
How to Create an Event Hashtag
The use of hashtags has evolved beyond a simple “#” and integrated elements of marketing. Creating an event hashtag has taken on a much more calculated approach that follows certain rules for success.
Step 1: Know your Audience
Generally, an audience between the ages of 15-45 will be more likely to engage with an event hashtag. It is important to know who your audience will be for the event and tailor your social media platforms accordingly.
Step 2: Create a Great Hashtag
Choose your hashtag name wisely based on your audience and their likelihood to engage with the content. Also, make sure to do a thorough search across ALL social media platforms to see if the hashtag is available or already in use.
- Make the hashtag relevant and descriptive of your event. Example:
- event name+the year+a descriptive word
- Make the hashtag unique so that the content posted will be relevant to your event and not get mixed in with other content that isn’t related
- Make the hashtag short and/or easy to remember.
Step 3: Promote, Promote, Promote
Promote your hashtag before, during and after the event. The hashtag should be visible on all promotional items for the event (signage, posters, presentations, press releases, websites, social channels, emails, shirts, swag bags). Also, make sure to use the hashtag on all posts created for the event to generate buzz around the event. The point is to get people excited before the doors even open and make sure they talk about the event days after!
Step 4: Encouragement is Key
The more people talking about and engaging with the hashtag, the better! An event hashtag is only successful when there are conversations among the attendees and remote followers. When posting material, engage with everyone to get them on the event bandwagon. The more the merrier when it comes to social media and event hashtags.
How to Know an Event Hashtag is Working
When promoting an event, track your hashtag closely to monitor the activity. Make sure to set up filters in the social media tools to keep the conversations going. While reading through the event posts, focus on what content is successful and what needs improvement. Detect trends in your posts and use that information to tailor your message.
Things to Think about When Planning a #Event
When planning an event, there are a few other things to consider. Take a look at some of our other articles related to event planning.
- 5 Tips for Choosing an Event Caterer
- How to Choose Your Event Space
- Vendor Etiquette 101
- What Size Tent Do You Need? Tips for Finding the Best Size for Your Event
Tent and Party Rental Help for Your Event
At J&J Tent and Party Rentals, putting customers first is our top priority and remains our focus from the moment you contact us. We understand that planning a flawless experience takes an enormous amount of energy and focus, so let us be your trusted advisors. No matter the #event type, we believe that providing quality rental products and services is essential to making your dream event a reality.
Serving the Raleigh area since 2005, we have built a successful business around this mindset, becoming North Carolina’s most popular choice for party rental needs. From backyard BBQs to elaborate wedding ceremonies, we ensure that every customer can host the most remarkable event, regardless of the venue, budget or individual needs. Contact us today at (919) 977-3691 or visit our website for more information, J&J Tent and Party Rentals.
