Sales And Marketing Skills

Snapchat Basics




This simple guide will help you effectively use the Snapchat platform for personal or business purposes.

1. Basics of Snapchat

What Is Snapchat?

Snapchat is a multimedia messaging app known for its ephemeral content—photos, videos, and messages that disappear after being viewed or after 24 hours in Stories. It’s widely used for personal connections, creative storytelling, and marketing.

Key Features of Snapchat:

  1. Snaps:
  2. Send photos or videos to individual users or groups.

  3. Snaps disappear after viewing (unless saved).

  4. Stories:

  5. Share Snaps with all your friends that last 24 hours.

  6. Spotlight:

  7. A TikTok-style feature for viral short videos.

  8. Snap Map:

  9. See where friends are and share your location (optional).

  10. Filters and Lenses:

  11. Apply AR effects, geofilters, or creative stickers to Snaps.

  12. Memories:

  13. Save Snaps to revisit or repost later.

  14. Discover:

  15. Explore content from creators, publishers, and businesses.

  16. Snapchat Ads:

  17. Use paid ad campaigns to promote products or services.

Snapchat Terminology:

  1. Snapstreaks:

  2. Maintain a streak by exchanging Snaps daily with friends.

  3. Bitmoji:

  4. A personalized avatar used as your profile picture.

  5. Geofilters:

  6. Location-based overlays for Snaps.

  7. Score:

  8. A number that represents how much you use Snapchat (based on Snaps sent/received).

2. Examples of Snapchat in Action

1. Personal Use Examples:

  • Everyday Storytelling:
  • Example: Post a 5-second Snap of your morning coffee:
    "Starting the day right #MorningVibes"
  • Creative Snaps:
  • Use lenses to turn your face into a cartoon character and send it to friends.

2. Business Use Examples:

  • Promoting a Product:

  • Post a Story showcasing your product with an exclusive discount code:
    "? Flash Sale! Use code SNAP20 for 20% off today only. Tap to shop!"

  • Behind-the-Scenes Content:

  • Share how products are made or packaged.
    Example: A short video of your team assembling orders with a caption:
    "Every package comes with. Thanks for shopping with us!"

3. Influencer Use Examples:

  • Product Endorsement:

  • Snap a video using a skincare product and say:
    "Obsessed with this glow serum from @BrandName Use my code for 15% off!"

  • Engaging Followers:

  • Use polls or questions to ask:
    "What’s your must-have item for a beach day??"

3. Formulas (Strategies) for Snapchat Success

While Snapchat doesn't have "formulas" like Excel, applying strategic content structures can maximize engagement.

Formula 1: The Hook Content CTA (Call-to-Action)

  • Hook: Start with an attention-grabbing visual or text.
  • Content: Deliver the core message quickly (Snapchat content is fleeting).
  • CTA: End with a clear action (e.g., "Swipe up," "Reply," "Take a screenshot").

Example:
- Snap: "? Limited Edition Alert!"
- Video: A close-up of your new product in action.
- CTA: "Swipe up to grab yours before they’re gone!"

Formula 2: 3-Second Rule

Snapchat users scroll quickly, so capture their attention within 3 seconds.
- Use bold text overlays and fun visuals to stand out.

Example:
- Snap: Bright product photo with the text:
"Last Day to Save 30%!"

Formula 3: Story Sequencing

Create mini-stories with 3-5 Snaps to tell a narrative.
- Example for a Coffee Brand:
- Snap 1: "Wake Up with Us?" (morning coffee pouring).
- Snap 2: "Crafted for You" (barista making latte art).
- Snap 3: "Swipe Up to Get Yours?".

Formula 4: Snap+Memories+CTA

  • Use a Snap to engage pull in saved Memories for context end with a CTA.
  • Example:
  • Snap: "We’re live now!"
  • Memory: Show behind-the-scenes clips of the event.
  • CTA: "Swipe up to join!"

4. Specific Scenarios and Walkthroughs

Here are practical ways to use Snapchat effectively:

Scenario 1: Boosting Engagement With Stories

Goal: Create an engaging Story to interact with followers.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Start With a Hook:

  2. "Can you guess what’s launching this Friday?"

  3. Add Interactive Elements:

  4. Use Polls: “Which color would you choose? Red or Blue.”

  5. Use Questions: “What’s your favorite summer activity?”

  6. Conclude With a Tease:

  7. “Find out tomorrow what’s coming!”

Scenario 2: Driving Sales With Snapchat Ads

Goal: Promote a flash sale using Snap Ads.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Access Ads Manager:

  2. Go to Snapchat Ads Manager Create Ad.

  3. Choose the Objective:

  4. Drive Traffic: Send users to your website or app.

  5. Design the Ad:

  6. Use bold, high-quality visuals.

  7. Add text: “FLASH SALE: 30% OFF ENDS TONIGHT Swipe Up!”

  8. Target Your Audience:

  9. Demographics: 18-30 years, interests like shopping or fashion.

  10. Launch and Monitor:

  11. Track swipe-ups, conversions, and ROI in Ads Manager.

Scenario 3: Launching a New Product With Spotlight

Goal: Use Spotlight to generate organic reach for a product launch.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Create a 15-Second Video:

  2. Show your product in action with trending music.

  3. Add a Caption and Hashtags:

  4. “Meet your new skincare hero #SkincareMadeEasy.”

  5. Post to Spotlight:

  6. Use Snapchat’s algorithm to reach new audiences organically.

  7. Engage:

  8. Reply to comments or questions viewers leave.

Scenario 4: Running a Giveaway

Goal: Increase followers and engagement through a giveaway.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Announce the Giveaway:

  2. Snap: “? GIVEAWAY ALERT! Win our exclusive bundle. Here’s how to enter:
    1. Follow us.
    2. Share this Snap on your Story.
    3. Tag 2 friends!"

  3. Post Reminders:

  4. Repost the giveaway Snap in Stories with a countdown sticker.

  5. Announce the Winner:

  6. Use a Snap with confetti effects and thank all participants.

Scenario 5: Promoting an Event With Geofilters

Goal: Drive awareness for a local event.

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Create a Custom Geofilter:
  2. Go to Create Your Own Filter or Lens Design.

  3. Add your branding and event name.

  4. Set the Geofence:

  5. Choose the event location and time frame.

  6. Promote the Event:

  7. Encourage attendees to use the filter:
    • “Snap your experience with our exclusive filter!”

5. Advanced Tips

  1. Leverage AR Lenses:

  2. Create branded AR Lenses (e.g., try-on makeup or glasses).

  3. Track Metrics:

  4. Use Snapchat Insights to analyze views, swipe-ups, and engagement rates.

  5. Collaborate With Influencers:

  6. Partner with Snapchat creators to amplify your message.

  7. Post Regularly:

  8. Aim to post Stories daily to stay top-of-mind.

  9. Cross-Promote:

  10. Share Snapchat links on Instagram, Twitter, or email newsletters to grow your audience.
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