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#Hashtag Yourself to Success by Randy Patton

contractor marketing with hashtagsHere is my followup from my last blog where I mentioned using hashtags!  Twitter is the birthplace of modern hashtag usage, it all started back around 2007.

On Twitter, the pound sign (#) turns any word or group of words that directly follow it into a searchable link. This allows you to organize content and track discussion topics based on those keywords. Such as “We are #roofing in this town today” the #roofing tag is how you would use it, so that your keyword can be found.

The hashtag’s widespread use began with Twitter but has extended to other social media platforms. Such as Facebook and Google+.

But let’s back up a bit, in case you’re unsure what a hashtag even is in the first place. Designated by the number sign (#), the hashtag is paired with a word or phrase to perform a variety of functions. For starters, spaces are an absolute no-no. Even if your hashtag contains multiple words, group them all together.

In your business’ case, you may choose to attach a hashtag, such as #roofing, for roofers or even a brand’s name itself, as #sherwinwilliams, if you are a painter to improve the chance of getting found. Another example with multiple words….. “#plumbingleaks” “#neednewwindows” #repaintyourhouse” just to name a few ideas for you. Do a search for these hashtags on Twitter, Facebook and Google+ #roofcoatings #commecialroofing & even #marketing to see some of my posts to see how it works.

Most major social media platforms support hashtags!

Facebook only recently added hashtag support in June 2013, and the practice has not picked up much steam. Nevertheless, clicking on Facebook hashtags will take you to a list of posts containing the same hashtag. The results are not limited to people you know.

Google+ recently added #hashtags to their platform!
Using hashtags with your Google Plus posts helps optimize your content to display in search just like Twitter & Facebook. It also helps in Google search to help you get found. By sharing my info on Google+ with using #hashtags it is helping people to find my info. Which from my searching actually leads back to google+ page.  

Keep it simple
Hashtags, like links, look like spam if they are used too often. Three hashtags should be the maximum on all social media sites! 
I prefer to use 2 most of the time.

Post by Randy Patton of Patton Services, a commercial roof coating contractor working with White Roofing Systems.