Use Social Media For Your Next Business Event!

The holidays are fast approaching and many small businesses like to use this time to promote special events.  Using social media to get the word out is essential in making sure your event is reaching the right target market.  So having said that, what are some tips that a small business owner can use?  Here is my little checklist to help you with your event social media strategy
Hashtags
Hashtags or the famous # sign is a great way to make sure your event gets a following quickly.  Hashtags get the word out more quickly and in a matter that streamlines  everything. 
Live Video Feed
With Meerkat and Periscope, you can now live stream events.  As crazy as this may sound, get your event up  on one of these platforms and promote the fact that it will be streaming live.  You might be surprised how many people will turn out to just get themselves on camera.  Plus you can interact with your viewers through Twitter using these platforms.  You can stream with any newer Android or I-phone that has a HD camera. 
Audience
Know your market to whom you are trying to reach.  What you have to offer and knowing who you are trying to reach goes hand in hand.  Social Media helps your  target specific share and demographics.
Customer Interaction
Using platforms like blogging or Twitter will help you interact with your customers.  Listen to them and respond!
Make Your Event Fun!
Add family value to your event.  Bring in outside resources such as a clown, Santa Clause, portable slides, photo booths, anything that will make the kids say "I wanna go!" 
Door Prizes
Nothing draws people to an event better than free stuff or a chance to win something. (No obligation, remember!)  Offer something nice for a drawing.  It can be one nice item or smaller items that you draw for every hour during your event. 
Platforms
Promote your event through your Facebook fan page, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, your web site, even your blog.  The more 360 circle you create, the better exposure you will have.  I suggest you create a special landing page for the event and link  everything to it. Even create a portal to let people sign up.  Good luck with your next event!