How to build an audience long before you have a product

I often hear from entrepreneurs and founders of organizations who say they don’t want to begin marketing efforts until their product is finalized.

Later, when nearing the product’s launch, they realize they are severely lacking an audience—something they failed to build long before the product was ready.

One of the biggest ways to avoid this is to solidify a social media strategy early on. A common misconception surrounding social media and perhaps what prevents organizations from implementing one ahead of time, is the belief that social media success can be switched on by simply pushing a button. Social media strategy is a long-term commitment that begins with identifying an audience.

One of your social media strategy’s goals should be to build trust with your audience. The sooner you start, the more time you will have to craft engaging content, determine appropriate channels and perfect your voice. RELATED: EVENT: Help employees care about their role in your success.

Here are a few ways to build your online customer base.

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