Hashtags: Unravelling the Mystery Between Branded and Regular | Image from Jamia Kenan and SproutSocial.com
Discover the critical differences between branded and regular hashtags, their impact on social media marketing, and how to use them effectively.
Hashtags are everywhere! From Twitter to Instagram, these little symbols have revolutionised our online communication. However, have you ever wondered what sets a branded hashtag apart from a regular hashtag? Let us dive in and unravel the mystery behind these powerful tools.
What is a Hashtag?
A hashtag is a keyword or phrase preceded by the pound sign (#). It is used on social media platforms to categorise content, making it easier for users to find posts related to specific topics. Simple.
The Evolution of Hashtags
Hashtags have come a long way since their inception on Twitter in 2007. Initially, they were used to organise tweets and facilitate searches. Now, hashtags are a fundamental part of digital marketing strategies across various platforms.
Regular Hashtags
Regular hashtags are generic keywords or phrases that anyone can use. Think of #love, #food, or #travel. These tags help increase the visibility of posts and connect users with similar interests.
Branded Hashtags
On the other hand, branded hashtags are specific to a company or campaign. They are unique and designed to promote a brand, product, or marketing initiative. Examples include Coca-Cola’s #ShareACoke or Nike’s #JustDoIt.
Key Differences Between Regular and Branded Hashtags
- Purpose: Regular hashtags are used for general categorisation, while branded hashtags aim to promote a specific brand or campaign.
- Control: Branded hashtags are created and controlled by brands, whereas anyone can create and use regular hashtags.
- Recognition: Branded hashtags often become synonymous with the brand itself, adding a layer of brand recognition and loyalty.
Why Use Hashtags?
Hashtags boost the discoverability of your content. They can increase engagement, attract new followers, and even drive sales. Whether you are an individual or a business, using hashtags effectively can significantly enhance your online presence.
The Impact of Regular Hashtags
Regular hashtags help users discover content on specific topics. They are a great way to join conversations, stay updated with trends, and reach a broader audience.
Master the Art of Hashtags| Image by Kate Williams and Survey Sparrow
The Power of Branded Hashtags
Branded hashtags can create a sense of community and loyalty among followers. They are powerful tools for tracking the success of marketing campaigns and encouraging user-generated content. When users adopt a branded hashtag, they become ambassadors for your brand.
Creating Effective Regular Hashtags
- Relevance: Ensure your hashtag is relevant to your content.
- Simplicity: Keep it short and easy to remember.
- Popularity: Use popular hashtags to reach a wider audience, but avoid overly saturated ones.
Creating Powerful Branded Hashtags
- Uniqueness: Your branded hashtag should be distinctive and not used by others.
- Memorability: Make it catchy and easy to remember.
- Consistency: Use it consistently across all your marketing channels.
Case Studies: Successful Branded Hashtags
Coca-Cola’s #ShareACoke
Coca-Cola’s #ShareACoke campaign is a textbook example of a successful branded hashtag. It encouraged people to share pictures of Coke bottles with personalised names, creating a massive wave of user-generated content.
Successful Regular Hashtags
#ThrowbackThursday
The #ThrowbackThursday hashtag is an excellent example of a regular hashtag that went viral. It encourages users to share old photos and reminisce, creating a sense of nostalgia and engagement.
Common Mistakes with Hashtags
- Overuse: Using too many hashtags can make your posts look spammy.
- Irrelevance: Using irrelevant hashtags can confuse your audience and reduce engagement.
- Length: Long and complicated hashtags are hard to remember and type.
Best Practices for Using Hashtags
- Research: Before using a hashtag, research its popularity and relevance.
- Balance: Use a mix of popular, niche, and branded hashtags.
- Engage: Encourage your audience to use your branded hashtags and engage with their posts.
Tools for Managing Hashtags
Several tools can help you manage and analyse your hashtag performance:
- Hashtagify: Explore and analyse popular hashtags.
- RiteTag: Get instant hashtag suggestions based on your content.
- Hootsuite: Schedule posts and track hashtag performance.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between regular and branded hashtags is crucial for leveraging their power effectively. Regular hashtags increase visibility and engagement, while branded hashtags build community and loyalty. By incorporating the right mix of hashtags into your social media strategy, you can enhance your online presence and achieve your marketing goals.
FAQs
- Can I use both regular and branded hashtags in my posts? Using a mix of both can help increase visibility and promote your brand.
- How many hashtags should I use in a single post? It depends on the platform. For Instagram, 5-10 hashtags are ideal, while for Twitter, 1-2 is usually sufficient.
- Can I create my own branded hashtag? Yes, you can. Just ensure it is unique, memorable, and relevant to your brand.
- Do hashtags work on all social media platforms? Most platforms support hashtags, but their effectiveness can vary. Instagram and Twitter are particularly hashtag-friendly.
- How can I track the performance of my hashtags? You can use tools like Hashtagify, RiteTag, and Hootsuite to analyse and track the performance of your hashtags.
