Two exciting new staff appointments at Melbourne Social Co following a strong quarter of growth
Melbourne Social Co is thrilled to announce two new staff appointments, following a very successful quarter for the agency, and a number of marquee new client signings.
The agency is thrilled to welcome Ebony Coatsworth, as a Social Media Executive. Ebony has carved out a really successful personal brand, marketing community and podcast series in ‘Can I Buy You A Coffee’ over the past few years, and we are thrilled to welcome her to the agency.
We also welcome Amy Torpy this month. Amy comes from a PR agency background and joins Melbourne Social Co as an Account Manager, bringing a wealth of experience across property and hotel portfolios.
We are thrilled to welcome both Ebony and Amy, and look forward to this experienced pairing working on key new client signings such as Oates, Epzen and Essano.
Why Lifestyle Brands Need to Leverage TikTok and UGC to Engage with Their Consumers
In today’s fast-paced digital world, lifestyle brands must adapt to ever-evolving social media landscapes to stay relevant and connected with their audiences. TikTok, the short-form video platform that has taken the world by storm, is a prime example of a channel that offers immense potential for brands looking to engage with consumers in fresh and innovative ways. Coupled with the power of User-Generated Content (UGC), TikTok can be a game-changer for lifestyle brands. Here’s why.
The Explosive Growth of TikTok
TikTok has rapidly become one of the most popular social media platforms, boasting over a billion active users worldwide. Its unique format allows users to create and share short, engaging videos, making it a hub for creativity and trendsetting. For lifestyle brands, this means an opportunity to reach a vast and diverse audience in a space where creativity and authenticity are celebrated.
The Authentic Appeal of UGC
User-Generated Content (UGC) refers to any content—videos, photos, reviews, etc.—created by consumers rather than brands. UGC is incredibly powerful because it offers genuine endorsements from real people, making it more relatable and trustworthy to potential customers. In an era where consumers crave authenticity, UGC stands out as a valuable asset for brands.
Why TikTok and UGC are a Perfect Match for Lifestyle Brands
Authentic Engagement: TikTok’s emphasis on creativity and originality makes it the perfect platform for UGC. Lifestyle brands can leverage this by encouraging their customers to create content featuring their products. This not only boosts engagement but also builds a community of loyal fans who are genuinely excited about the brand.
Viral Potential: TikTok’s algorithm favours content that resonates with users, regardless of the creator’s follower count. This means that even small brands or new campaigns can go viral if they strike the right chord. By tapping into trends and encouraging UGC, lifestyle brands can increase their chances of creating viral moments that significantly amplify their reach.
Building Trust and Community: Consumers are more likely to trust recommendations from real people than from brands. UGC acts as social proof, showing potential customers that others love and endorse the brand’s products. This builds trust and fosters a sense of community around the brand, driving deeper connections and loyalty.
Staying Relevant and On-Trend: TikTok is a hotbed for trends, and lifestyle brands can stay ahead of the curve by actively participating in these trends. By encouraging users to create content based on trending challenges or themes, brands can maintain a fresh and relevant image that resonates with their audience.
Incorporating TikTok and UGC into your marketing strategy can significantly boost your brand’s engagement, authenticity, and reach. By embracing the creative and community-driven nature of these tools, lifestyle brands can foster deeper connections with their consumers and stay ahead in a competitive market.
Ready to take your lifestyle brand to the next level but don't know where to start? Melbourne Social Co specialises in crafting bespoke TikTok strategies and creating compelling content that captures the essence of your brand. Our deep understanding of the platform’s dynamics, combined with our ability to generate engaging UGC, ensures that your brand stands out in a crowded digital space. By partnering with Melbourne Social Co, you gain access to a team of creative professionals dedicated to amplifying your brand’s reach and resonance through authentic, trendsetting content. Whether it's designing viral TikTok campaigns or curating impactful UGC, we provide the tools and expertise needed to connect with your audience in meaningful ways and drive real, measurable results.
Want to check us out on TikTok?
Ready to get started? Get in touch with us today.
Unlocking the Power of the Female Consumer: Why Partnering with Melbourne Social Co is Your Best Business Move
In the ever-evolving world of lifestyle brands, connecting with your audience is more crucial than ever. If your target market includes the female consumer (and more specifically Australian women aged 20-45, you’re aiming at a demographic with immense purchasing power and influence. But how do you effectively reach and engage this audience? The answer lies in partnering with a marketing agency that understands them inside and out. Enter Melbourne Social Co.
The Influence of the Female Consumer
Women aged 20-45 are not just consumers; they are trendsetters, influencers, and community builders. Their engagement on social media is not just about staying connected; it’s about discovering, being inspired, and making informed purchasing decisions.
Melbourne Social Co: Your Gateway to Success
Unmatched Understanding of Your Audience: Melbourne Social Co has a deep-seated knowledge of the preferences, behaviours, and values of Australian women in this age group. This insight is invaluable for crafting messages that truly resonate and inspire action.
Strategic Social Media Mastery: Our expertise lies in leveraging the social media platforms that matter most to your audience. We know where they are, what they’re looking for, and how to capture their attention in an authentic and engaging way. From visually stunning Instagram posts to trending TikTok content, we ensure your brand is seen and remembered.
Influencer Partnerships: Influencers play a pivotal role in today’s marketing landscape, especially for female consumers. Melbourne Social Co has cultivated strong relationships with influencers who have the trust and attention of your target market. These collaborations amplify your brand’s reach and credibility, driving engagement and boosting sales.
Compelling Visual Content: Visual appeal is key for women aged 20-45. Our team excels at creating content that not only looks beautiful but also tells a story. Whether it’s a perfectly styled room showcasing your furniture or a captivating video tutorial, our content is designed to inspire and convert.
Building a Loyal Community: Women in this demographic value community and trust. We focus on building a strong, engaged following for your brand, turning customers into loyal advocates. Our campaigns foster a sense of community, encouraging your audience to share their experiences and spread the word.
Why This Matters for Your Business
Choosing to partner with Melbourne Social Co means aligning with a team that doesn’t just know your audience but knows how to connect with them on a deeper level. Our specialised focus ensures your marketing efforts are not only effective but transformative. From enhancing brand awareness to driving sales, we create strategies that deliver real, measurable results.
Investing in a marketing agency with a profound understanding of your primary consumer demographic is a game-changer. Melbourne Social Co can help you unlock the full potential of the female consumer market, turning their interest into lasting loyalty and tangible growth for your brand.
A Proven Track Record
Melbourne Social Co’s track record speaks volumes about our expertise in engaging the female consumer. We’ve successfully collaborated with renowned brands such as DoorDash, Adairs, Lifely, Twinings, and Lululemon, each with its unique challenges and audiences. Our work with these brands has honed our ability to craft compelling campaigns that drive results. These experiences have given us unparalleled insight into what captivates and motivates female consumers, ensuring that we can tailor our strategies to meet their needs and desires effectively.
Ready to elevate your brand? Let’s make your lifestyle brand the top choice for Australian women everywhere.
Want to get a feel for our agency? Check us out on TikTok.
Unleash the Power of User Generated Content: A Game-Changer for Your Brand
If you're looking to up your social media game, it's time to pay attention to a little something called User Generated Content (UGC). In this blog post, we'll explore why UGC is a powerhouse strategy for brands and how Melbourne Social Co can help you harness its full potential.
First things first, let's break down what UGC is all about. User-Generated Content is any content – whether it's photos, videos, reviews, or social media posts – created by your audience rather than your brand. It's the digital word-of-mouth that can skyrocket your brand's visibility and engagement.
Now, let's dive into why UGC is crucial for brands in today's digital landscape:
- Authenticity is Key: In a world saturated with sponsored ads and glossy marketing campaigns, consumers are craving authenticity. UGC provides exactly that – real people sharing real experiences with your brand. This authenticity builds trust and credibility, driving customer loyalty and advocacy.
- Boost Engagement and Reach: UGC has a unique ability to spark conversations and foster community engagement. When your audience sees others like them interacting with your brand, they're more likely to join in on the conversation. Plus, UGC often generates higher engagement rates and extends your brand's reach far beyond your own social channels.
- Cost-Effective Marketing: Traditional advertising can be expensive, but UGC offers a cost-effective alternative. By leveraging UGC, you can significantly reduce your marketing spend while still reaping the benefits of high-quality, authentic content.
- Unleash Creativity: Your audience is a wellspring of creativity, and UGC allows you to tap into that creativity in new and exciting ways. From unboxing, DITL, POV and more, UGC showcases your brand through the eyes of your customers, adding depth and personality to your marketing efforts.
User-generated content is widely utilised by brands across various industries to enhance their marketing strategies. Here are some examples of brands effectively leveraging UGC:
- Airbnb: Airbnb's "Experiences" platform encourages hosts and guests to share their unique travel experiences through photos and reviews. This user-generated content not only helps potential guests make informed decisions but also serves as powerful social proof, showcasing the authenticity and diversity of Airbnb's offerings.
- Coca-Cola: Coca-Cola has run numerous UGC-driven campaigns, such as the "Share a Coke" campaign where they replaced their logo with popular names and encouraged consumers to share photos of themselves with personalised Coke bottles. This campaign generated a vast amount of user-generated content on social media, driving engagement and brand awareness.
- lululemon: lululemon often features customer photos on their website and social media platforms, showcasing individuals wearing their activewear in various settings, from yoga studios to outdoor adventures. By incorporating UGC into their marketing strategy, lululemon highlights the versatility and performance of their products while celebrating their diverse community of customers.
Now, you're probably wondering how to incorporate UGC into your brand's marketing strategy. That's where Melbourne Social Co comes in!
Our UGC packages are almost ready to drop, meticulously crafted to help brands like yours maximise the power of user-generated content. Our team of experts will work closely with you to develop a tailored UGC strategy that aligns with your brand's goals and resonates with your target audience.
With Melbourne Social Co's UGC packages, you'll receive:
- Strategic campaign planning by social media experts, with your brand, objectives and platform best-practice in mind
- Access to a diverse range of creators
- End to end management of the content production process
Melbourne Social Co's UGC packages have just launched. Join the waitlist today and be the first to access our UGC packages, but hurry, limited spaces are available. Don't miss out on this opportunity to supercharge your brand's marketing efforts with the magic of user-generated content.
Ready to take your brand to new heights? Let's make it happen with Melbourne Social Co and the power of UGC!
What it’s really like to work with a social media agency.
So - you want to work with a social media agency.
Great! You’ve come to the right place.
But what does working with a social media agency actually entail?
Well, let’s lay out the process for you, from start to finish.
When you enquire with us here at Melbourne Social Co, you will speak to a member of our strategy team, who will ask all the right questions of you, including;
- A little about your business (we want to know what you’re selling, who you’re selling it to, and what sets you apart from the rest?)
- What are you looking to achieve through a social media campaign? Brand awareness? Conversions? Foot traffic to stores? All of the above? Great. Fill us in!
- What is your ideal monthly spend? We need to know an approximate figure that you have to spend monthly so that we can tailor our recommendations to suit and pitch you something realistic and actionable.
From there, our team will go away and put together a tailored proposal for you. We’ll go through it together, make tweaks as needed, and once we’re all aligned on what needs to be done, it’s time to get started.
Depending on your campaign, you will most likely begin with a Social Media Strategy.
This is our favourite place to start with new clients, as it allows us to deep dive into your brand, you current social media output, your target audience, competitors and so much more. We align this information with your goals and objectives and strategically craft a campaign to roll out over a 3-6 month period.
Your Account Manager, along with our senior team will present your social media strategy to you on completion, and run through any questions you might have at this point.
From there, if you’re a retainer client with Melbourne Social Co, we roll into your monthly social media management plan. This might include undertaking your first photo/video shoot, as well as setting up your paid ads campaign if you’re running one of these.
You’ll be presented with your first fortnight of social media content that has been crafted under the close direction of our Head of Social Media, which once approved, will be distributed by our team.
Here begins a wonderful monthly cycle of content creation, distribution, shoots, paid ads and of course analytics and reporting. You will have a monthly catch-up with your Account Manager (but of course we’re only a call away during the rest of the month) where we analyse the month that’s been, and what we’ve got planned for the month ahead.
Here are Melbourne Social Co, client retention is one of our core objectives as a business. We pride ourselves on our close working relationship with our clients, and have had many clients spend 2, 5 and even 10 years with the agency.
We can’t wait to show you more about this wonderful social media agency that we’ve built, and the incredibly talented team that are ready to work with you.
Get in touch with us today and let’s chat further.
Do you have any questions about working with a social media agency? Let us know on Instagram.
Want to see what else we're up to? Visit us on TikTok for a behind the scenes peek at our agency.
Nailing the TikTok Game: Creating Content That Slays!
If you've got a hunch that TikTok is the place to be for content creators, you're absolutely right! It's not just a platform for dance challenges and lip-syncing anymore. TikTok has evolved into a powerhouse for content of all kinds.
So, let's break down what types of content are key when it comes to TikTok.
1. Short, Snappy, and Eye-Catching Videos
TikTok is all about short attention spans and quick fixes. The ideal video length? 15-60 seconds. Keep it concise! Your content should be a burst of excitement, making viewers go, "I need to see this!"
2. Trend-Hopping and Challenges
TikTok trends are the lifeblood of the platform. Jump on the latest dance, challenge, or trend, and you might just ride the wave to viral fame. It's all about being in the know and keeping your content fresh.
3. DIY and Life Hacks
Gen Z and Millennial audiences love to learn, and TikTok is the ultimate school of life hacks and DIY brilliance. From cooking hacks to home improvements, share your knowledge and make it visually captivating.
4. Behind-the-Scenes Glimpses
Peel back the curtain and show your followers the "real" you. Whether it's a sneak peek into your creative process, office BTS, or day-in-the-life vlogs, authenticity is 🔑.
5. Storytelling and Emotional Appeal
Social media users have a soft spot for storytelling. Share heartwarming tales, personal experiences, or relatable anecdotes. It's a surefire way to connect with your audience on a deeper level.
6. Humour and Memes
Laughter is the universal language, and memes are our currency. If you can make someone LOL in 15 seconds or less, you've got a winner!
7. Music Magic and Soundtracks
Music is the backbone of TikTok. Use catchy tunes and popular soundtracks to enhance your content. A good song choice can elevate your video to viral status.
8. Collaborate and Duets
Team up with fellow creators for duets and collaborations. It's a fantastic way to cross-pollinate audiences and create engaging, shareable content.
9. Relatable Content
The more relatable your content, the better. Address everyday challenges, pet peeves, and "adulting" struggles. We all love content that makes us feel seen and understood.
10. Call to Action (CTA)
Don't forget to tell your viewers what you want them to do! Whether it's "Like and Share" or "Tag a Friend," a clear CTA can boost engagement.
11. Consistency is Queen
To truly conquer TikTok, consistency is key. Regularly post content to keep your audience engaged and coming back for more.
If you're looking to succeed on TikTok, remember these content types. Keep it short, trendy, educational, and, most importantly, authentic. TikTok is your stage, so get out there and let your creativity run wild. Who knows, the next viral sensation could be just a tap away!
Need help with your brands' TikTok strategy? Get in touch with us today.
Want to check out what we're up to on TikTok? Visit us here.
Navigating the LinkedIn Landscape: A Business Owners' Guide to Social Media Marketing.
If you're reading this, you've probably realised that LinkedIn isn't just a platform for job seekers and recruiters. It's a goldmine for entrepreneurs and business professionals to grow their brand, network, and generate leads. So, let's dive into the world of social media marketing on LinkedIn, and how you can utilise it for your brand.
Why LinkedIn Matters for Brands and Business Owners
LinkedIn isn't just another social media platform; it's a powerhouse for professional networking and brand building. As a brand or business owner, this is where you can:
- Connect with Your Tribe: LinkedIn boasts over 774 million professionals worldwide, making it an excellent place to find like-minded individuals, potential clients, and partners who get what you're about.
- Show Off Your Expertise: Showcase your skills, experience, and accomplishments on your LinkedIn profile. Let your future clients and collaborators know you're the real deal.
- Lead Generation Goldmine: Looking for new customers? LinkedIn's advanced search features let you pinpoint your ideal clients and connect directly with decision-makers.
- Build Your Personal Brand: Share your story, values, and insights to establish your unique personal brand.
Getting Started with LinkedIn Social Media Marketing
Now, let's break down how you can get started with social media marketing on LinkedIn:
1. Optimise Your Profile
Your LinkedIn profile is your digital business card, so make it shine:
- A Picture's Worth a Thousand Words: Upload a professional (but approachable) profile picture that captures your personality.
- Craft a Captivating Headline: Use your headline to convey your mission or expertise in a few words.
- Tell Your Story: Write a compelling summary that shares your journey, passion, and what sets you apart.
2. Create Engaging Content
To get noticed on LinkedIn, you need to be active and share valuable content:
- Share Insights: Post industry news, your take on trends, or valuable tips that showcase your expertise.
- Long-Form Content: Write articles on topics relevant to your industry or business. It's an excellent way to establish yourself as an authority.
- Multimedia Magic: Don't limit yourself to text—share videos, infographics, and eye-catching visuals.
3. Build Your Network
LinkedIn is all about connections. Connect with:
- Industry Peers: Network with fellow professionals to stay in the loop on industry trends.
- Clients and Prospects: Send personalised connection requests to potential clients.
- Influencers: Following and engaging with industry influencers can boost your visibility.
4. Leverage LinkedIn Ads
Investing in LinkedIn ads can be a game-changer:
- Sponsored Content: Promote your posts to reach a broader audience.
- InMail Marketing: Use personalised messages to engage with prospects directly.
5. Measure and Optimise
Analytics are your best friend. Use LinkedIn Analytics to:
- Track Post Performance: See which content resonates most with your audience.
- Audience Insights: Understand who's engaging with your content.
- Conversion Tracking: Monitor the success of your lead generation campaigns.
6. Be Authentic
Millennials and Gen Z audiences value authenticity. Be yourself, share your challenges, and celebrate your wins. Authenticity builds trust, which is crucial for business success on LinkedIn.
7. Engage and Network
Join LinkedIn groups, participate in discussions, and be genuinely helpful. Remember, it's not just about self-promotion; it's about building relationships.
LinkedIn is a fantastic platform for millennial business owners to grow their brand, connect with the right people, and generate leads. Use your profile to tell your story, share valuable content, network with authenticity, and keep an eye on your analytics. In no time, you'll be rocking the LinkedIn scene and taking your business to new heights!
Want to sit down with our team to chat LinkedIn Strategy? Get in touch today.
Want to check out what we're doing on LinkedIn? Visit us here.
Lessons from a creative agency owner.
Today, our Founder Shelley is sharing 6 lessons she has learnt over the years as a creative agency owner.
I’ve been in business for over 13 years now, and have learned a thing or two along the way.
Here are 6 lessons from me, a creative agency owner.
1. Your people are your greatest asset.
Prioritising their well-being and growth is key to success, as is building a tight-knit culture based on mutual respect.
2. Trust and transparency will take you further than a fancy sales pitch can.
While big numbers, awards and sales tactics can land clients quickly, being open and transparent about recommendations and realistic results leads to stronger long term relationships with clients.
3. Grow at a sustainable rate.
While there are some out there 10 x-ing their growth each year, consistent, sustainable growth is key to staff and client retention.
4. Systems and processes are your saviour.
A simple playbook documenting everything you do as an agency will be your saving grace when things get crazy.
5. Reputation is everything.
The industry is small and you’ll cross paths with everyone more than once. Make sure every impression is a positive one.
6. Let your work speak for itself.
High-quality, creative work delivered on time, every time will become your greatest sales tool.
What would you add to the list? Let Shelley know on LinkedIn.
Want to work with our creative agency? Get in touch with us today.
Meet our latest passion project, Approved the Podcast.
Earlier this year, we floated the concept of an agency podcast. Let’s be honest, we ALL LOVE podcasts, especially those with the fun and familiarity of a chat between friends or family, that deep dive into the things we all want to know more about. Like maybe, what it’s like as a Gen Z climbing the career ladder at a creative agency?
Fast forward to today, as we launch Approved.
Hosted by social media experts (and sisters) Nicole and Hannah, Approved is a fun, fortnightly peek behind the curtains of the social media industry, where your hosts sit down to spill the tea about what it’s like to work in social media and all that it entails.
In each episode Nicole and Hannah will look at pop culture and how platforms like TikTok and Instagram influence our daily lives, and chat to influential up and comers in the industry about how the navigate the landscape to promote both themselves and their brands.
Delivered through the lens of Gen Z women forging impressive careers in marketing themselves, Approved the Podcast exists to help listeners unpack social media updates, learn from industry heavyweights and dabble in influencer ‘tea’, all shared with the familiarity that comes with a chat between sisters.
Listen now on Spotify.
Want to get to know Hannah a little better? Our recently appointed Head of Production recently sat down with Fashion Journal to share what it's really like to work at a social media agency. Read the article here.
Want to work with our agency? Get in touch with us today.
Introducing Threads — Everything you need to know about Meta's new social media platform.
You’ve no doubt heard that Threads, Instagram's new Twitter-like social app has launched! Parent company Meta, describe Threads as a place where communities come together to discuss everything from the topics you care about today to what’ll be trending tomorrow. Whatever it is you’re interested in, you can follow and connect directly with your creators and others who love the same things — or build a loyal following of your own to share your ideas, opinions and creativity with the world.
Meta’s making a big push to promote the new app in an effort to convert Twitter's users into being Threads users. In its’ first weekend live, the platform has reached 100 million sign ups, which is unheard of for a new social media platform.
For the first few weeks, we expect Threads to be the wild west — stay tuned daily to see how the platform grows and changes. As users transfer their platform from Instagram, we can anticipate the Threads’ user base will be comprised mostly of Millennials and Gen Z.
Understanding that these audiences are preferring authentic content, we recommend leaving overly planned updates at the door, and lean into frequent and unpolished posts that convey brand voice and authenticity. Put yourself in your followers’ shoes, and try to update from their perspective.
So, should you rush to craft a Threads strategy?
Our first recommendation is to get live on the app, so that your brand is searchable and you can make the most of users transferring their Instagram follower list to the platform.
Step one:
- Download the app
- Activate your threads account
- Ensure your bio is up to date
- Place your link of choice
If you need a hand with step one, please let us know.
Step two:
Our team will be closely monitoring activity on the platform over the next few weeks and will be putting together a comprehensive platform strategy and ongoing management recommendation for our clients, please reach out if you'd like to join the waitlist for this service.
If you have any questions in the meantime, please join us over on Threads!
