When confronted by a marketing team, many brand owners and even C-level executives think, both to themselves and out loud, “Pssh, I could do that!”

Well, the time has come to put you to the test!

What does it take to be a truly effective social media marketer? One that can push a brand like no other and establish an amazing online presence? The truth is, some marketers are able to tackle the world of social media a little better than others. Why is this? They’ve taken the time to perfect their strategy. The good news? So can you.

Here are the top ten traits that the ultimate social media marketing campaigns have. Check these off one by one and see how you stack up!

1. Focus. Your content should be specifically relevant to your industry and type of work. Relevant, not “strictly related.” Not every post should be shameless plugs and self-promotion (although there’s definitely room in your strategy for those things too!) Instead, post articles and interesting posts that your followers will enjoy and be able to start a conversation around.
2. Passion. How are people supposed to be interested in your company if you’re bored with it? Trust me, your lackluster effort will show in your content. Get pumped up and plan out a content strategy that amplifies what’s fresh and different about your business! You should be proud and passionate about your brand.
3. Professionalism. Social media is about casual communication, but that doesn’t mean you’re not a professional. Keep it classy, fellow marketers.
4. Authenticity. People can spot a scam a mile away. The internet is already full of cheesy marketing tactics, empty promises, and unrepentant cringe. Make sure you stay honest and true to your brand—the younger your target audience is, the more that a natural presence, real beliefs, and general authenticity will matter.
5. Consistency. You never want an excessive amount of time to go by without sending out a post. A day is understandable. Two, you’re going to start to suffer. A week, and you will need to wipe away the digital dust. Keep your publishing schedule consistent and reliable.
6. Communication. When a customer, client, follower, or fan contacts your company, you have to abide by three things. Friendliness, timely responses, and a satisfactory answer to their inquiry. Make sure you stick to the basics of customer service and communicate with a cyber smile.
7. Positivity. There’s enough bad news in the world nowadays, in particular on the internet. Make someone’s day by spreading some joy through a post. Whether it’s a quote, a tasty recipe, or a fun image, your social media content should have a fun factor. These posts not only brighten up your community, but if you have engagement-based goals for your brands social media accounts, positive posting will help get you there.
8. Integrity. Don’t take advantage of bad news for marketing gains. Don’t post inappropriate or controversial content. Don’t curse. Don’t fight with dissatisfied customers. Once again, keep it classy.
9. Entertainment. One of the defining factors of social media is that people use these platforms for FUN. Make sure people actually enjoy seeing your tweets, posts, and pins by studying what is trending and most engaging.
10. Patience. This trait combines a bit of everything. You need to be consistent, have a focus, stay positive, and use your exceptional communication skills. All the while, it may take time, but don’t let the quality dwindle. Don’t forget that social media takes time. Do not give up!

So, where did you fall on this checklist? If you weren’t able to check all ten, don’t despair! It’s not a sign of failure, it’s a sign of potential.

There are plenty of businesses who have all ten of these traits. There are also MANY who have none of them. Make sure you keep these in mind when you pursue your marketing ventures. If you do this, online credibility and brand awareness will be yours!