Social media profiles are a vital component in business branding. They tell the world about you with the value that you offer, and they give your fans a place to communicate and get involved. Social tools make branding easy, but there are some guidelines that you should follow.

Your Profile Image

You should use your logo or icon as your profile picture. Everybody can instantly recognize your brand this way, and also helps your branding on social networks. It shouldn’t be too large or small, so use the same item for all of your profiles.

Logos are usually appropriate for a personal profile. Remember that you would not your company that your brand. If it’s a Facebook fan page or Brandica LinkedIn, logos are perfectly fine, but for a personal Profile, stick with a photo.

Consistency is Key

Many social media sites allow you to customize your profile extensively. You should take advantage of these features. Use the same kind design patterns and colors that you use on your business website. A perfect way to do this is to take of that horizontal banner off your site and make a vertical version for your social profiles.

Consistency is also key in your profile information. All of your social profiles have the same basic information in the same general tone. This makes your business appear reliable, trustworthy and consistent. Some websites like Twitter don’t allows many words in your profile, so create a short version along with the full version that contains just the essential information.

Don’t leave your profile incomplete. Fill out all of the available fields. If your profile is incomplete, it means you don’t have Much to say about yourself, or that you were simply lazy. Take advantage of each of these fields provide people with as much information as possible.

Connect all of your social media sites as well as your website. This can help people understand that it’s you who were there connecting with. It confirms that you are the brand they know and love. It also offers additional points for you and your customers to connect.

What to Write

While your social media profiles should be consistent, content is one area where you should try to mix it up. Every social media site has certain types of content that it likes. Twitter and Facebook prefer short, personal updates. Networks like LinkedIn and Google plus or more oriented around business professionals. These sites are more conducive to new stories and helpful tips. It’s okay to cross post on social media sites, but it’s better if you can customize to each site. It’s Also a great idea to offer something different on each social media site because some of your fans will be the same everywhere.

Whenever you use social media you need to stay on brand. Pay attention to what you’re doing because you don’t know who will see it. Follow all standard social media etiquette and keep things positive and upbeat. Show your unique personality, but always take into consideration how your actions appear. Always maintain a high level of professionalism.