If you use any social media site, you’re probably familiar with hashtags. But for many people, they’re still not sure how they work and what they are being used for.
What is a Hashtag?
The # symbol is commonly called the pound sign and number sign and but these days it’s known as the hashtag. When you use this symbol in front of a keyword on any social media network it identifies a message on a specific topic. In short, a hashtag allows people to search and find related topics on social networking sites.
The Oxford English Dictionary has even recently added and defined the word “hashtag” as it’s become so popular in the language spoken online. A clear assumption can be made about the popularity of hashtags not just because there’s a “coolness factor” but because they serve a certain purpose. Hashtags have become an integral way we communicate online and it’s important to know how to use them especially for business. Plus, they can be a lot of fun!
What is Hashtag Engine Optimization?
Hashtag Engine Optimization (HEO) is a relatively new marketing strategy. Unlike Search Engine Optimization (SEO) which focuses on gaining higher rankings, HEO is about finding trending topics or even creating new content around them.
Basically as soon as you include a post with a hashtag, you will automatically become a participant of the group of content that contains the hashtag. Especially if you use a trending hashtag, just imagine the number of people searching for it and stumbling upon your content. This will help to gain more exposure in social media and hopefully bring more traffic into your website.
Examples of Popular Hashtags
Hashtags are designed to target groups of people who all share common interests. The most popular hashtags of the moment will attract plenty of interest and commentary online. Choosing such hashtags can be an effective way to introduce your business to new people online. After all, people love sharing similar interests and supporting worthwhile topics. Take a look at some of these examples of the most viral hashtags to see just how powerful hashtags can be.
#ALSicebucketchallenge
#nomakeupselfie
#OttawaStrong
#BellLetsTalk
Using hashtags can be a smart business move and a great opportunity to connect with like-minded people on social media. The beauty of choosing hashtags is that they put you into a particular group right away. Hashtag Engine Optimization might possibly be the new Search Engine Optimization, so it can be in your best interest to start implementing them into social media posts.
Ashley Rose Davidson 