Snapchat is the current darling of social networks with more than 300 million active users and 9,000 snaps per second. More than 50% of teens use the network daily and over 30% say they use it because their parents don’t.

With 45% of Snapchat users under the age of 24, it’s hard for many marketers to leverage the network. That’s why this episode of 5 Business Rules is here to give you five tips to get started on Snapchat. Spend 4 minutes watching the video or read on for the tips.

#1 Start with a goal

Like any good marketing program, you have to have a goal. You must know what actions you want users to take after seeing your snap and work toward that goal.

Keep in mind Snapchat is a unique animal, so before you can confidently go forward with your goals, you must spend some time on the network to understand what people are reacting to and what goals are feasible.

#2 Focus on your audience

Create content that speaks directly to your target market’s interests, challenges and aspirations. Like any other social network, it’s not about you or what you want to share. To be successful you have to craft content that is of interest to your audience.

snapchat# 3 Have conversations

Snapchat is a messaging app, so let your audience participate! Like any social media platform, you want to have a two-way conversation with your followers. That means you need to interact with other users as well as posting great content.

Don’t approach Snapchat the same way you approach your website. Remember, content on Snapchat will disappear and that’s what makes it fun. So don’t use the same photos you have everywhere else. Ask for selfies and get your community involved in your content!

#4 Work with Snapchat influencers

Working with influencers is a long-term strategy, but one that can benefit your business if you decide Snapchat is a strong platform for you.

Look for influencers on Snapchat who have the same audience and would be a natural fit for both of you. Just make sure you emphasize how a partnership will benefit THEIR audience. By definition, influencers have an existing audience that they can influence. To leverage that audience you must have a good reason as to why it will benefit the influencer.

#5 Use geofilters

Add your location to your snaps as it can create a connection to others in the same area.

This is especially relevant if you have a brick and mortar location as you can use Snapchat to drive people into your business.

Want more tips? Read a 14-year-old entrepreneur’s advice.

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