Facebook for Artists: Q&A with Krystal Hobbs of Reflective Marketing

These days, it seems that everybody and their dog (literally) has a Facebook page. With approximately 1.6 billion monthly active users, it remains the world’s leading social networking site. But Facebook isn’t just for keeping up with old classmates or posting photos of what you had for dinner last night. If you’re an artist or entrepreneur, it's also an invaluable place to market your product or services and get eyes on your work. But do you know how to get the most out of Facebook? Krystal Hobbs of Reflective Marketing has some pointers, which she’ll be sharing during her “Facebook for Artists” workshop on April 18 at St. John’s City Hall. (This session will be immediately followed by “What’s in a Brand?” with Don-E Coady of DC Design House.) Krystal recently chatted with Business & Arts about how to stand out in the right ways.

Business & Arts NL: What are some of the main things that artists should be doing to stand out amongst the noise that is social media?

Krystal Hobbs

Krystal Hobbs: The main tactic I always recommend to clients is sharing personal stories, whether that be through text, images, or video. When you tell a story, others feel more connected to you, especially in the online world. Look at the success of Humans of New York; it's more about the stories than the photographs. If you can share your story and give your followers a more in-depth look at you and your work, they'll remember you. They'll tell their friends, too, and you can spread your message to more people.

Business & Arts NL: Just how significant is Facebook these days for artists when it comes to getting eyes on, and creating interest in, their work?

KH: If you want to be successful, you have to be where your audience is. Facebook now has over 1.59 billion monthly active users; chances are, your audience is on Facebook! I believe Facebook is an essential marketing tool for artists for a number of reasons. Ads on Facebook are inexpensive, and you can guarantee you'll reach the right people with its precise targeting options. Not to mention, given the visual nature of the platform, you can be very creative and show off your work in new and exciting ways!

Business & Arts NL: When it comes to Facebook, and social media in general, what are some things that artists could be doing better?

KH: 1) Get comfortable promoting yourself. You need to share your work with everyone you can, and there are ways to let people know what you're doing without being overly promotional or salesy.2) Post more frequently. Once a week isn't going to cut it, especially considering only a small percentage of your following sees your post.3) Create video content. Video is really taking off on Facebook in particular, and it's the easiest way to get more people to know, like, and trust you. If you can establish that connection, more people will support your work.

For more information on Krystal’s session “Facebook for Artists,” click here.