How to Start an Online Store: 7 Killer Social Media Strategies You Can't Ignore

Ready for the tale of how Nike broke Instagram? Buckle up!

It's 2018, you're scrolling through Instagram (like everyone else who pretends they're only doing it for "creative inspiration"—yes, we know the real reason!). Suddenly, there's this sleek, black and white post that screams nothing but swagger: "Just Do It." Simple, right? Well, that three-word caption amassed more likes than your selfie with a cat costume ever will, with posts flooding in from fans all over the world. Spoiler: it wasn't just a lucky hashtag day for Nike; it was a thoroughly planned marketing masterpiece.

Here's how they did it: Nike decided to dig deep into its audience. They focused on culture, community, and—get this—user-generated content (UGC). Instead of filling up feeds with traditional ads, they encouraged people to flaunt their Nike drip (sneakers, sweatshirts, leggings—you name it). With athletes, influencers, and everyday fans co-creating content, Nike didn't just slap their logo on your feed—they burned it into your subconscious!

And the kicker? They used the power of social sharing to spread like wildfire. When someone showcased their Nike gear, they didn't just boost the brand's followers—they deepened a sense of connection between the customers and the business. The result: millions of people were sucked into Nike's vortex of cool. And all this, with no one feeling like they were watching an ad.

The takeaway? If you want attention, don't shout louder; make your audience the star. This is exactly what you need when thinking about how to start an online store. Social media has the capacity to not just market a product, but make your audience feel a part of something big.

Why Social Media is Your Secret Weapon When Starting an Online Store

Okay, so now you're wondering, "Sure, Byron, I'm not exactly Nike, but where do I even begin?" I feel you. Starting your own online store can feel a bit like standing at the base of Mount Everest. But don't worry—there's no need to saddle up a Sherpa just yet. I'm here to give you the oxygen mask of social media wisdom that'll help you scale the heights and conquer that ecommerce mountain.

So let's break it down. Whether you're selling artisanal pickles or customized sneakers, social media isn't just a place to post selfies—it's your storefront, your customer service line, and, honestly, it's where all the cool kids (read: your customers) hang out.

Here are seven social media strategies that'll have you slaying the game like a pro (though fair warning—you won't be getting a Nike-sized paycheck just yet).

1. Build a Community, Not Just Followers

Let's face it. Most people follow brands because they want something in return—a discount, a sneak peek, or even just a little motivation to kick butt on a Monday morning. Sure, gaining followers is essential, but nurturing those followers into a community—that's where the magic happens.

The goal is to get people talking, sharing, and feeling like they belong to your brand tribe. You want them to say, "Hey, I bought this from XYZ online store, and I feel like I'm part of something epic!" Post exclusives, share behind-the-scenes goodies, and sprinkle in some UGC so your audience feels seen and appreciated. Take a page from Nike's book and remember: It's not about you; it's about them.

2. Boost Engagement with Interactive Content

Are you still posting the same boring flat-lay photos of your products on repeat? Stop. Right. Now. You need to shake things up. The easiest way to do that? Interactive content. We're talking quizzes, polls, Instagram stories that ask for feedback, and video Q&As. The goal is to get people involved, not just scrolling past like they're on auto-pilot.

For instance, create polls asking your audience to vote on your next product launch. Or run Instagram stories behind the curtain at your business HQ. Social media algorithms favor accounts that get users to pause, comment, and interact. In short: More interaction = more visibility = more sales.

3. Time Your Posts to Perfection (Hint: It's Not Random)

You wouldn't throw a New Year's party in June, right? (Unless, of course, you're real into irony.) Well, posting on social media works the same way. Timing isn't just important—it's everything. You want to post content when your audience is online and ready to engage with it.

If you're wondering, "Byron, how on earth do I know when my top customers are scrolling through Instagram while pretending to pay attention in Zoom meetings?"—don't worry, I got you. Use tools like Hootsuite or Buffer to figure out the best times to post for your specific audience. Generally, early mornings, late afternoons, or evenings are golden hours.

4. Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC) Like a Boss

Remember Nike's UGC blitz? You can do the same, even without their marketing budget. If your customers tag you in photos or leave a glowing review, why not make them the stars of your next post? Sharing their content both endorses your brand in a more authentic way and makes them feel valued, like they're a part of your success.

Bonus: UGC is basically free advertising. And who doesn't love free? Encourage customers to share by using a branded hashtag and offering incentives, like discounts or shoutouts. The more social proof you gather, the stronger your brand grows.

5. Use Social Commerce Features

Here's some juicy gossip: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and even TikTok now allow people to shop directly from the app. Yes, that's right—you can scroll, double-tap, AND purchase, all without ever leaving the dopamine rush of your social feed.

Link your products directly to your posts so customers can buy within seconds. Don't sleep on this—especially if you're just starting. The easier you make it for folks to go from "Like" to "Buy", the quicker you'll hear that sweet cha-ching ringing up in your app.

6. Dive into Video Content

Did you know video-watching makes up one-third of internet activity? That's like… a lot. So, if you're making people read text-only posts in 2024, welcome to the digital dark ages. Video is your go-to medium if you want to engage, entertain, and—ultimately—sell.

Whether it's product demos, funny behind-the-scenes clips, or user testimonials, videos create trust fast. And trust me: trust equals conversions. Get creative with short-form videos like Instagram Reels or TikToks. Keep it light, engaging, and (this is crucial) relatable.

7. Run Social Media Contests and Giveaways

This one is a no-brainer, but it's often criminally underused. People love free stuff. Host regular giveaways, encourage hashtags, and ask participants to tag friends or share your post for extra entries. Boom—you've just multiplied your reach.

Pro-tip: Use a SaaS tool like FAISCO (yours truly helped craft this baby) to quickly set up sweepstakes and engagement-driven games. You'll have a campaign in less time than it takes you to microwave leftover pizza.

What Our Satisfied Users Say

Don't just take my word for it. Our fans say it all:

"Running giveaways with FAISCO boosted our Instagram following by 35% in two weeks. Selling in my online store feels almost too easy now!" — Andrea, owner of HandmadeCo

"Since using FAISCO, we saw a 25% increase in repeat customers. The customizable games made our brand memorable and fun!" — Leo, founder of CraftJuice

"FAISCO helped us build a dedicated community around our fitness gear, and our sales skyrocketed during the holiday season!" — Jess, CEO of FitQueens

Why FAISCO is Your Ultimate Social Media Weapon

You've read the strategies. Now let me show you the tool that can help you crush it: FAISCO. It's the secret sauce that takes the guesswork out of creating engagement-driven marketing campaigns with fun games, quizzes, and giveaways.

With FAISCO, in just 3 minutes, you can launch interactive campaigns that bring viral attention to your store. Want to run a sweepstakes or launch a seasonal marketing game? No problem. FAISCO's got you covered with customizable templates, from spin-the-wheel contests to holiday-themed rewards that'll keep your audience coming back for more.

Plus, FAISCO offers powerful tools like:

• Engaging, easy-to-use templates for games and promotions.
• Built-in data analytics to track and optimize every campaign.
• Viral-sharing options to help your customers spread the word for you, boosting your social reach.
• Automated data collection with intuitive forms, so your lead-gen just got a whole lot easier.

Seriously, it's time to stop guessing. Let FAISCO help you scale your social media game and turn those casual followers into superfans (with wallets).

Your online store is calling—are you ready to answer?