Here’s our list of the six things you’re doing wrong with your social media accounts.

1. You don’t tell people you’re on social media. Unless your target market is physic, people that aren’t familiar with your brand or business probably don’t know you’re on social media. That’s why you need to take every opportunity to let them know. Links to your social media accounts should be on every page of your website, as well as in the signature of your email. Put your Facebook and Twitter handles on newsletters and email blasts, and publicize your networks at events. Don’t forget to use these social media channels to comment on other peoples’ posts, which help you establish a presence in the community.

2. You haven’t integrated social media with your website to bring people to your hub. Everything about your business in on your site… so why aren’t you telling people about it on your social media networks? Once you’ve engaged people, send them to your website to learn more about your company and what you do.

3. You’re not using the social media site the way it’s supposed to be used. No two social media sites are the same – each as its own rules, etiquette and protocol. By following the rules, your updates will receive more traction. Twitter posts are short and sweet, and you can post multiple times a day. Don’t be afraid to talk to other users, share links and info, and retweet relevant resources. On Facebook, you’ll want to post longer updates and add photos, once or twice a day at most. No matter what channels you use, don’t spam people with the exact same message across networks.

4. You’re making it all about you.A faceless company is pretty boring. But the people behind that organization? They’re way more interesting. Show a little personality by sharing photos and material that adds depth and texture to your presence. Don’t just promote your company without providing other value. And don’t ask too much, or too often. Post like a human, because that’s who you’re talking to.

5. You’re antisocial on social media. A conversation only works if each person involved is adding something to it. Do your part – hold up your end of the conversation. It’s an essential part of attracting, engaging and maintaining a following. Share other people’s resources; give credit where credit is due. Comment on other people’s posts, and reply in a timely and respectful manner when they comment on yours. And always answer any questions people may ask.

6. You keep doing things that aren’t working.You’ve tried something on social media and it’s not working… why are you still doing it? In order to know what’s working and what’s not, you’ll need to measure social media results. Set goals and find yourself an analytics tool for measuring successes and failures. If you’re not learning from your mistakes, you’re doomed to repeat them.

This is just a small sampling of common mistakes businesses are making on social media. If you want to learn how to master these networks and boost sales, sign up for our Social Media 101 Workshop. You’ll take away tonnes of usable tools and strategies that will turn social media into an invaluable source of leads and sales.