Stop scrolling through 17 different social media apps wondering what to post. You're running a business, not auditioning for influencer status.
Here's the truth: Most business owners waste hours on social media and get zero customers from it. They're everywhere and nowhere at once – posting random thoughts on Facebook, half-hearted photos on Instagram, jumping on TikTok trends three weeks too late.
Sound familiar? Good news. There's a better way.
Pick Two Platforms. Maximum.
Your customers aren't hanging out on every social platform. Neither should you.
Start by asking: Where do my customers actually spend time? Not where you think they should be. Where they ARE.
If you're a local plumber, your ideal customers are probably on Facebook and Google My Business (yes, that counts as social). They're not making TikTok dances about their clogged drains.
If you run a boutique fitness studio, Instagram and Facebook make sense. Your clients love transformation photos and workout videos.
Landscaping business? Facebook for the older homeowners, Instagram for the younger crowd who want that perfect backyard aesthetic.
Pick two. Master them. Ignore the rest.
The 30-Minute Daily Framework
Thirty minutes a day. That's it. Here's how to spend it:
- 20 minutes: Content creation and batching (more on this below)
- 5 minutes: Engaging with your audience (respond to comments, like posts)
- 5 minutes: Checking messages and leads
Do this during your coffee break or right before you close up shop. Make it routine. Consistency beats perfection every time.
Content Batching: Your Secret Weapon
Stop creating content on the fly. It's killing your productivity.
Instead, batch your content. Pick one day a week (Sunday works great) and create all your posts for the next week.
Here's the process:
Step 1: Take Photos in Bulk
Spend 15 minutes taking photos of your work, your team, your office. Get 20-30 shots in one session. Your phone camera is fine – you're not shooting for National Geographic.
Step 2: Write Your Captions
Open a Google Doc. Write 5-7 captions at once. It's easier to stay in "writing mode" than switching back and forth between tasks.
Step 3: Schedule Everything
Use a scheduling tool (we'll cover options below) to queue up your posts. Set it and forget it.
One hour of batching saves you 30 minutes every day during the week. That's math you can love.
What to Actually Post (The Content That Works)
Forget inspirational quotes and stock photos. Your audience wants three things:
Behind-the-Scenes Content
Show your work in progress. The messy, real stuff.
If you're an HVAC contractor, show yourself diagnosing a tricky problem. Caption: "This homeowner's AC wasn't cooling upstairs. Found the issue – disconnected ductwork in the attic. Always check the simple stuff first!"
People love seeing how the sausage gets made. It builds trust and shows your expertise.
Results and Transformations
Before and after photos are content gold. They prove you deliver results.
Dentist? Show a smile transformation (with permission, obviously).
House cleaner? Before and after shots of that disaster kitchen.
Personal trainer? Client progress photos (again, with permission).
These posts practically write themselves: "Sarah came to us wanting to feel confident in her smile again. Six months later – look at that transformation! Ready to love your smile? Link in bio."
Educational Tips
Share quick, actionable advice. Position yourself as the expert.
Real estate agent: "First-time homebuyers – get pre-approved BEFORE you start looking at houses. It shows sellers you're serious and gives you a clear budget."
Auto mechanic: "That grinding noise when you brake? Don't ignore it. Worn brake pads cost $200 to replace. Damaged rotors cost $600. Catch problems early."
These tips help people and showcase your knowledge. Win-win.
Scheduling Tools That Actually Work
Don't post manually every day. Use these tools to automate:
Facebook Business Suite (Free)
Perfect if you're only using Facebook and Instagram. Schedule posts, respond to messages, track performance. Can't beat free.
Buffer (Paid, but worth it)
Clean interface, reliable scheduling, great for beginners. Starts at $5/month for the essentials plan.
Later (Freemium)
Especially good for visual content. The free plan covers basic scheduling for most small businesses.
Pick one and stick with it. Don't get distracted by fancy features you'll never use.
The Monday Morning Reality Check
Every Monday, ask yourself three questions:
- Did anyone comment on or share my posts last week?
- Did I get any inquiries from social media?
- Am I posting consistently?
If you're getting crickets, adjust your content. If you missed posting for three days, tighten up your batching process.
Social media for business isn't about going viral. It's about staying visible, building relationships, and attracting customers who need what you offer.
Your Next Step
Pick your two platforms today. Set up your scheduling tool. Block 30 minutes tomorrow for your first batch of content.
Stop overthinking it. Start posting.
Need help creating a social media strategy that actually drives customers to your business? Let's talk. Horizon Digital Agency helps Austin service businesses turn social media followers into paying customers – without the overwhelm or wasted time.
Ready to make social media work for your business? Contact us for a free strategy consultation.