Hashtags: Yes, they're annoying. But worth it - in business & private life

3 min. read.

Many of my older friends and clients are annoyed by hashtags - especially when #people #overuse #them. I can relate to that. But if you ask these people how much they actually know about hashtags and their benefits, the answers are often poor. It seems as if hashtags are as abstract for these people as floppy disks for today's teenagers. This is the reason why I decided to introduce hashtag critics - and you - to a brand new world of opportunities today.

1.What is a #?

Hashtags are mainly used on social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram or Facebook. As you can already see in its name, a hashtag tags or marks something: A keyword or topic. A hashtag consists out of the # symbol and a word or phrase; and no, spaces, punctuation and special characters cannot be used. Once created, a hashtag automatically turns into a link. By clicking on it you'll land on a new page, showing you all content connected to this keyword.

Three last thoughts: Hashtags can be used in the beginning, middle or end of a post. Nobody owns a hashtag. And make sure you double-check your creation - inappropriate new words could appear within the hashtag. For instance: #susanalbumparty. This is what people call an #epicfail.

2.How do #s function?

Hashtags categorize, filter or group content on social media platforms. They make it easier to find specific pictures, videos, accounts and information. An example: If you want some inspiration on what to cook for lunch, you could search for #whattocook, #food or #foodie.

Hashtags also enhance finding - and be found by - people who share similar interests and ideas. You can start collaborations and conversations without knowing each other, as well as following and keeping up with trends: Trending hashtags show you what topics people currently talk about.

3.Why & how should I use #s?

Using general hashtags describing your product(s), service(s) or content, as well as a few specific hashtags related to your post seems to be the best practice. Always ask yourself: What keywords would a user or client search for to find me? It works! I get up to 13 new followers with every new post on Instagram. "But how many hashtags should I use?" - Hm. Twitter recommends two per post, if you use them on Facebook choose 1-2. On Instagram you can go up to 30 - although some experts recommend 10-15 (put them in the comments to increase esthetics). And stay away from hashtags like #followme, #like4like or #tag4likes! These hashtags won't bring you potential real customers or friends, just users who engage with you to get more likes and followers.

Final hint: When you are a business, create a brand specific hashtag - especially for events and online competitions; and encourage your followers to use it. Make them your brand ambassadors. They will be happy to get exposure in return when you repost their material. Trough such a strategy you won't only get free user generated content. You'll get insights into your clients thoughts and user-experiences - highly valuable feedback. In the end hashtags help you build and maintain relationships, grow engagement, increase your exposure and brand awareness.

Conclusion?

It doesn't matter if you like or don't like hashtags. The benefits of using the right ones are enormous. Overcome your antipathy and start experimenting with them. You might win a fantastic wellness weekend or be approached by a client who found you through a hashtag - both happened to me last week.