Recommended Software & Programs
We all need those things that are going to make our lives easier. Once you get into a routine of posting on a regular basis, you need that program or software that will save you time! A good social media strategy is well planned out, and you need the tools to help get you there.
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Each of the programs I recommend I have tested or used myself so I am confident recommending them to you.
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I've partnered with these companies because they are great to work with, always there to help, and their platforms are easy to use.
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If you want a behind-the-scenes look at any of these programs, or want some more info from me, then email me at awilson@ajwservices.com and I'm happy to give you the 4-1-1!
Content Creation / Graphic Design - Canva
Hands down, without a doubt, I recommend Canva. I've been using it for years and it has never let me down! Every single piece of content you see on my social media channels was created using the Pro version of Canva. I also used the free version for a long time and it was a good introduction to the platform. I upgraded to the pro version because I wanted more access to graphics & images and I wanted to have the brand kit where I could upload my logos, fonts, and other items customized to my brand so I could easily access them for each piece of content I created.
Not only do I use Canva for my social media content, but I also use it to create my proposals and reports to clients, workshop presentations, course slides, and a ton more.
What's even better is that you can schedule your social media content directly from Canva!
Social Media Management - Sprout Social & SmarterQueue
Sprout Social
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The team over at Sprout Social is awesome! I talk to them on a regular basis to get an update on their product features. Not only are they great to work with, but their platform is easy to use, but also robust. They've thought of everything you could possibly need in your social media managing experience.
The biggest selling feature for me was their reporting capabilities. I needed monthly reports that were easy to understand, up-to-date, and presentation ready. It seriously only takes 30 seconds to find the report you need and download it.
SmarterQueue
If you're looking for something in a smaller price range, SmarterQueue is an awesome platform! It is simple to use, easy to manage, and has some pretty cool features.
Their scheduling tool helps you reclaim your time, regain your freedom, and post more consistently.
You can also discover, bookmark, and easily share new content with powerful social media search functionality and Pinterest-style browsing.
Plus, they have features like a social inbox, competitor analysis, social media monitoring, and more.
Email Management - Flodesk
This is a program I got involved with during it's beta phase so I got to see the platform grow and change based on how it was being used, and it was awesome to watch! The founders truly care about their customers and are always looking for ways to improve the platform.
I use Flodesk to send all of my emails to my subscribers. I also use it to set up workflows so when people subscribe to my emails, sign up to get a freebie, or sign up for a course, I have automated emails set up for each one. All of their templates are easy to use and customizable!
Not only that, but you can also create sign up forms and opt-ins directly through their program and embed them on your website or landing pages.