In my last post, I discussed why cosmetology students should use social media. If you’re ready to get started with a social media plan, or you’ve already started, I’ll share with you some great tools you can use to show your credibility, passion, and make connections in our industry.

Facebook

Most everyone has personal Facebook profile, but if you want one strictly for your business, you can create a Facebook Page. I would suggest using your name for the title of the page, and categorizing it under “Local Business” and “Spa/Beauty/Personal Care”. Here, you can share your work, post about openings you have, events going on in your school/salon, and invite your clients to like your page. This is a great solution for those who want a division between their professional and personal profiles.

Twitter

Twitter is one of the best social media tools to use to connect with brands you love. For example, you are able to follow the companies that make the products you use in your salon (BennieFactor and Davines here at Amber’s!). Following them allows you to keep up with the latest news and developments, promote their company by replying and retweeting to them, and tagging the company in your own tweet.

Instagram

Instagram is a no brainer for showing off your skills! Pictures give people a deeper connection into your brand (watch the first minute or so of this video from Magnet Media, Inc explaining why) and Instagram is the perfect platform to do so. Plus, Instagram now has video as well as the ability to tag people (like clients!) It’s is a fun and creative way to market yourself, and it connects seamlessly with your Facebook and Twitter profiles, so that means less work for you to post on multiple sites.

Online Communities

Connect with something bigger than yourself by joining online communities. Behind the Chair is a great resource that allows you to become a member and create a profile (check out ours here) and connect exclusively with individuals and companies in our industry – score!

If you choose to use all of these or even just one, the most important part is staying active. Keep posting and tagging – even if you get discouraged! At the very least, it will show your audience (even if it is small) that you care. I encourage you to try it out for yourself – experiment, find what works best for you and stick with it!